Marine Electronics Forum - VHF for small Center Console Boats

I have a 17' whaler. I have a Bimini top as well, max size i can go with is like a 4-5ft antenna on the center console with the bimini is in place. Unless i do a rail mount on the side with a 10ft antenna and ppl at the dock will be starring at me:o.
I do want a fix mount. Not familiar with vhf products/antennas.
In that case, i do not want to spend $ for a good vhf unit and with a small antenna. To lose its potential.
Other wise, better off with a hand held vhf.

Any options? Mostly looking for a combo or a decent good antenna with my limited in length.
I know there is tons of units out there, just something to get the job done with my limited space.

Any answers, will be greatly appreciated.

STD. Horizon makes a very good units. Sound is clear and loud. Love ours. Different ones to choose from.

Metz 4' stainless whip antenna, very flexible, mounts with a simple L bracket on the console or rail.
3db gain, very high quality.

Shakespeare makes a 3' whip, also 3db gain but having had both on my 17' Whaler with a bimini I much prefer the Metz's performance.

I also have 2 Standard Horizion VHFs and can recommend them also.

http://www.marine-electronics-reviews.com/metz-manta.html

GAM SS-2 is also excellent and has received great reviews.

Standard Horizon 1700 with the built in GPS. If you have a GPS on board and plan to connect the 2, then save some money and get the 1600.

The Metz Manta 6 3' works well, or the GAM SS2.

Thanks for the feedback. I place an order on the Mertz.
I have a 3 yr old uniden. But i don't get to much coverage, hopefully the new antenna will help out.
Probably order a hand held vhf, than when the uniden fix mount goes boo boo. I'll replace it with a new one.

A rail mount is good if you don't mind re-sewing your bimini a little. I tried it on my aft bow but it did not work out that well so I moved my antenna to the front. That worked out so well that when I got a chart-plotter I put that antenna up front too.

I have a fix mount, i was considering purchasing a hand held back up vhf. From the dock to where i usually fish, is about 10 miles away. But from shore itself, i'm about between 1-2 miles out or even less. Sometimes i go further, from shore to my areas, about 3-7 miles out.