Looking to up my safety game and am looking for something compact that checks a few boxes without relying on a cell. Bonus if it can be on the console and not on person.
Gps location in case of sudden emergence/capsize/etc
Alert responders etc of medical issue for passenger
This is the PLB I carry in my fanny pack inflatable. No cell/subscription required. GPS coordinates lock-in. There are several models with multiple functions. You may be able to order direct for a pro/guide discount?
https://www.acrartex.com/products/resqlink-view/?_gl=1*109x73s*_up*MQ.._gsMQ..&gclid=EAIaIQobChMIqJvI4vChkQMV5a4DAB3cTzpVEAAYBCAAEgJ9a_D_BwE&gbraid=0AAAAADxOZNpZXLzSyRPp-cG5gy6uBu8zb
I do a lot of offshore fishing and always bring two options with me. The first one is a traditional PBL/EPIRB that is only for emergencies. Like Zika said, they are great as they don’t require any cell or subscription and there are plenty of small, compact options.
I also have always used an InReach as a form of communication and tracking. It tracks your movements, and others can see at any time to. Additionally, it allows two-way communication. This is great for check-ins, and in the event of an emergency, you can provide information on your emergency. Hearing back from someone that help is coming is a huge piece of mind. I couldn’t imagine setting off an EPIRB and having no idea if it’s working. I recently upgraded to the GPS Maps 86, and it doubles as a backup navigation device. Downside to these are they require a subscription, but can be turned on and off and has flexible plans.
Check out Zoleo. I have one. I’ve only used it a handful of times in the Everglades, but I don’t have any complaints. It’s compact and has a long battery life. It has a SOS button. It has a “check-in” button that’ll send a custom message to your selected contacts, along with GPS coordinates. You can also two-way communicate. There’s an app for your phone that you connect the device to and you can send text messages to whoever in your contacts. No cell service needed.
My cousin does this as well. EPIRB and InReach for offshore. I just have an InReach since I don’t go offshore but you could make the case that an EPIRB would be a fine idea if the crap really hits the fan!
You can also get a mobile VHF radio which has GPS and MMSI (Maritime Mobil Service Identification) capabilities, register it online with the coast guard and then if/when you hit the SOS it sends your location, and connects to the vessel and emergency contact info you listed online. index
I have an ACR plb attached to my inflatable vest that I wear when I’m solo on my flats boat or offshore .
I had a scary accident years ago that changed my life.
This was on the Fishing Wire this am:
December 3, 2025
By The Fishing Wire
Compact and rugged communicator helps explorers stay connected with loved ones while adventuring beyond cellphone coverage
Garmin (NYSE: GRMN) is expanding its popular lineup of compact satellite communicators with the introduction of inReach® Mini 3 Plus. Featuring a color touchscreen display and built-in speaker and microphone, inReach Mini 3 Plus lets adventurers exchange voice messages, texts and photos1—making iteasier to stay in touch with family and friends who are back home. Purpose-built to provide extra peace of mind while exploring beyond cell coverage, users can also trigger an interactive SOS message to the Garmin Response℠center should an emergency occur. And with up to 330 hours of battery life in 10-minute tracking mode, inReach Mini 3 Plus can be used on multi-day trips without the need for any extra plug-ins or battery chargers.
“We understand just how important it is to stay connected during both short and long adventures, and that’s why we are excited to bring even more communication tools to the inReach Mini 3 Plus. Tell friends and family that they’re missed, show them the amazing view while standing at the summit and more—all from this compact and rugged device that can be clipped to a pack.”
—Susan Lyman, Garmin Vice President of Consumer Sales and Marketing
More ways to stay in touch
Voice messaging: Check in with family and friends by exchanging 30-second voice messages right from the device.
Voice message transcription: While in an area where listening isn’t possible or it’s necessary to maintain silence in the field, read transcriptions of voice messages directly on the device.
Touchscreen texting: Quickly exchange text messages (up to 1,600 characters), emojis and reactions or start a group chat right from the device.
Photo sharing: View photos from back home right on the colorful display and share photos from every epic adventure when using the Garmin Messenger™ app.
LiveTrack™ location sharing: Let friends and family follow along on the adventure and track progress, including distance, time and elevation1.
Emergency support when it’s needed the most
When an SOS message is triggered, inReach Mini 3 Plus will send an interactive message to the Garmin Response center, where a dedicated team of skilled emergency response coordinators are ready at any time. Photo and voice messages can also be shared during an SOS, giving coordinators the ability to see and hear details of the emergency firsthand. Response coordinators will communicate with the user, their listed emergency contacts, search and rescue organizations and other available local resources and provide updates. With nearly two decades of experience, the Garmin Response team has supported more than 18,000 inReach incident responses – from land to sea to air – in more than 150 countries on all seven continents.
Built for any adventure, inReach Mini 3 Plus is made to operate in extreme temperatures and features an impact-resistant design and IP67 water rating. When paired with the Garmin Explore™ app, adventurers can plan a trip, follow a course to a destination and even follow a track back to the start.
inReach Mini 3 Plus is available now and has a suggested retail price of $499.99. To learn more, visit www.garmin.com.
Engineered on the inside for life on the outside, Garmin products have revolutionized life for adventurers, athletes, off-road explorers, road warriors and outdoor enthusiasts everywhere. Committed to developing products that enhance experiences, enrich lives and help provide peace of mind, Garmin believes every day is an opportunity to innovate and a chance to beat yesterday. Visit the Garmin Newsroom, email our media team, connect with @garminoutdoor on social, or follow our blog.
1 Active satellite plan required. Some jurisdictions regulate or prohibit the use of satellite communication devices. It is the responsibility of the user to know and follow all applicable laws in the jurisdictions where the device is intended to be used.
Yeah just remember VHF/MMSI is very range limited by the antenna. Which is usually a small one on a skiff.