[Riverteeth]

Folks,
Question about these. I fish the Lower Columbia some, and am thinking about getting one of these for an extra measure of safety. I have a 20 foot aluminum boat, which also has a canopy frame made of aluminum.
Would a radar reflector be a good idea? Or do I have enough "signature" already with an aluminum boat?

If you do recommend a RR, what brand would you suggest? Thanks,

RT

 

[Soulakala]

Your question might be a first one that I've ever seen. I guess it wouldn't hurt but my radar when I need it shows up even birds so a boat like yours will glow red if we are converging and green if departing.

 

[Something Good]

Your aluminum boat should be enough IMO. They show up easily on my Radar.

 

[bcstan]

Agreed with above. I pick up even smaller single birds. An aluminum boat of any size is easily visible.

 

[Jeb]

Traditionally see these on glass & wooden boats so they provide a consistent and larger radar return. Generally speaking, a good conductor of electricity will make a good radar reflector 😀

OSU did a write-up on this a while back:

https://ir.library.oregonstate.edu/downloads/9593tv97d

 

[Jcbacalar]

If you were in a Fiberglass Arima or C-Dory or Defiance or some such you would want to use a reflector. If you were in a low profile sled with no metal you might consider one on a post up front. Those things make you look huge.
I knew a guy who put scrunched up aluminum foil inside his hollow wooden mast when he built it for his 29 foot sailboat. Had one ship captain tell him he thought the return meant there was a barge coming down the river. Was surprised it was a small boat.
A hard top of metal will show up just fine.