Using your VHF

Are you supposed to check in with the coast guard when you hit the water?  How do you know they are receiving you if you don't? Just looking for the right procedure.  Tia

If I'm going to be fishing a good distance from shore solo, I'll call for a radio check  on channel 16 when I 1st get out.  You don't generally get a response from the CG but other boaters will respond letting you know that your broadcast is being picked up. 

Radio Check Example:
This is yellow fishing kayak outside Tillamook Bay requesting a radio check on channel 16.  This is yellow fishing kayak outside Tillamook Bay requesting a radio check on channel 16.

Example Reply:
Yellow kayak we read you loud and clear.

-Spot-

If I'm going to be fishing a good distance from shore solo, I'll call for a radio check  on channel 16 when I 1st get out.  You don't generally get a response from the CG but other boaters will respond letting you know that your broadcast is being picked up. 

Radio Check Example:
This is yellow fishing kayak outside Tillamook Bay requesting a radio check on channel 16.  This is yellow fishing kayak outside Tillamook Bay requesting a radio check on channel 16.

Example Reply:
Yellow kayak we read you loud and clear.

Spot is spot on  . I will call for radio check and usually get a reply from C.C.

-Spot-