On Thu, 07 Aug 2003 13:12:32 GMT, "JET"
wrote:

Looking for something reasonably inexpensive to retrieve a float out at sea.
Would like about 2-3 mile range. If I could somehow use my FM radio that
would be great but I'm open to any ideas.

========================================
Here's a technical reference if you're inclined to do a little
research:

Transmitter Hunting: Radio Direction Finding Simplified
by Moell and Curlee, Tab/McGraw Hill, 1987

If you want to do this legally, you're going to need a ham license or
find a CB unit with direction finding capability, preferably a loop
antenna. Less legally, and hopefully well offshore, you might be able
to get away with a floating VHF hand held set to low power and an
unused channel. On your boat you would need a directional VHF
receiver.

There are also special frequencies and equipment intended for animal
tracking that you might be able to adapt.

Most off shore fisherman use a floating fiberglass whip (like a
mooring pickup stick) with a flag and small radar reflector on the
top. You should be able to buy these ready made from any commercial
fisheries supplier.