America 250 Rove! Dual activation at Brandywine Creek State Park, US-1732 with Jeff, K3JRZ. @paulTheSouthernHam

Paul The Southern Ham As we made our way from Philly to DC, a stop at Brandywine Creek State Park in Wilmington, DE was the perfect spot to meet Jeff, K3JRZ for a dual activation. Jeff and I had never met in person and I was honored to get to shake his hand. I had the station set up when Jeff arrived in which I deployed the JPC-12. It was tuned for 20m and ready to go.
As we got started, the 20m band seemed in great shape, but it wasn't long that things went sideways. It wasn't until later that we learned a major Solar Flare smacked us at that very time. Nonetheless, we kept on working the bands. Then the real fun began. As we tried to go QRT, we started getting great DX and more domestic calls. We had a blast.
I want to thank Jeff for taking the time to stop by the park after a long day of work to join me at the POTA table. This was my first Delaware activation!
If you watch till the end I'm sure you'll smile as much as we did.
#america250
#parksontheair
#pota
#potaantenna
#hamradio
#hamradio
#hamradioantenna
#portableradio
#dualoperators

Equipment used:
@YaesuUSAOfficial FT-891
@corallee8451 JPC-12
Amazon link to JPC-12: https://a.co/d/00jnLnBi
@ABRindCoax Coax
@ecoworthy_official 20ah Battery
@GigaPartsHuntsville
@DXEngineering
@K3JRZOnTheAir

Thanks for watching. Please LIKE and consider subscribing to the channel.
73
Paul
KJ5GKK

updated 2 months ago

America 250 Rove! Dual activation at Brandywine Creek State Park, US-1732 with Jeff, K3JRZ.

Paul The Southern Ham 2026-07-04 | As we made our way from Philly to DC, a stop at Brandywine Creek State Park in Wilmington, DE was the perfect spot to meet Jeff, K3JRZ for a dual activation. Jeff and I had never met in person and I was honored to get to shake his hand. I had the station set up when Jeff arrived in which I deployed the JPC-12. It was tuned for 20m and ready to go.
As we got started, the 20m band seemed in great shape, but it wasn't long that things went sideways. It wasn't until later that we learned a major Solar Flare smacked us at that very time. Nonetheless, we kept on working the bands. Then the real fun began. As we tried to go QRT, we started getting great DX and more domestic calls. We had a blast.
I want to thank Jeff for taking the time to stop by the park after a long day of work to join me at the POTA table. This was my first Delaware activation!
If you watch till the end I'm sure you'll smile as much as we did.
#america250
#parksontheair
#pota
#potaantenna
#hamradio
#hamradio
#hamradioantenna
#portableradio
#dualoperators

Equipment used:
@YaesuUSAOfficial FT-891
@corallee8451 JPC-12
Amazon link to JPC-12: https://a.co/d/00jnLnBi
@ABRindCoax Coax
@ecoworthy_official 20ah Battery
@GigaPartsHuntsville
@DXEngineering
@K3JRZOnTheAir

Thanks for watching. Please LIKE and consider subscribing to the channel.
73
Paul
KJ5GKK

A fresh look at my PICNIC POTA antenna setup! US-10448

Paul The Southern Ham 2026-09-27 | It's been a little while since I last took a look at my PICNIC POTA ANTENNA setup. I'm really proud of this concept. It has really made it possible for me and others with physical limitations to set up a variation of The POTA PERFORMER from Greg, KJ6ER.
Greg's Performer is fantastic and has taken the portable world by storm. However, it does require bending and staking in the ground that is all but impossible for folks like me. Hence, the PICNIC POTA.
Watch the video where I take a fresh look at my creation. Maybe it will help you too.
#pota
#parksontheair
#picnicpota
#parksontheairantenna
#hamradio
#hamradioantenna
#hamradiooperator
#amateurradio
#antenna
#portableradio

Equipment used:
@YaesuUSAOfficial FT-891
@ChameleonAntennaOfficial SS-17
@GigaPartsHuntsville
@DXEngineering
@ABRindCoax
@LDGElectronics-2
@ecoworthy_official 20ah Battery
@theelmerbrand

Thanks for watching. If you enjoyed the video, please LIKE and consider Subscribing.
73
Paul
KJ5GKK

Antenna comparison. 17’ whip vs JPC-12.

Paul The Southern Ham 2026-09-27 | Just a little real world comparison.
17’ whip vs JPC-12
#pota
#parksontheair
#potaantenna
#antenna
#hamradio
#hamradioantenna
#portableradio
#portableradioantenna
#amateurradio

Work with what you have!

Paul The Southern Ham 2026-09-25 | I forgot most of my gear, so I went with what I had!
#pota
#parksontheair
#amateurradio
#hamradio
#hamradiooperator
#hamradiolife
#hamradioantenna
#antenna
#portableradio

A Vertical Comparison. Which is best on 20m?

Paul The Southern Ham 2026-09-24 | This is another comparison video between the 17' telescopic vertical and the JPC-12 antennas. I have both and really enjoy using them. I wanted to put them on the A/B switch to see how they compared in the real world of POTA activations. The result was a clear winner, but which antenna took the prize? Watch to find out.
#pota
#parksontheair
#potaantenna
#hamradio
#hamradioantenna
#hamradiooperator
#portableradio
#radio
#antenna

Equipment used:

@YaesuUSAOfficial FT-891
@LDGElectronics-2 Z-100 plus (not used in this video)
@ChameleonAntennaOfficial SS-17
@ABRindCoax
@ecoworthy_official 20ah battery
@GigaPartsHuntsville
@DXEngineering
@corallee8451 JPC-12
The Elmer Brand choke
@CoffeeandHamRadios Choke

Thanks for watching. If you enjoyed this video, please LIKE and consider subscribing.
Paul
KJ5GKK

Giveaway CANCELED!

Paul The Southern Ham 2026-09-21 | Fraudsters have caused me to cancel my 4,000 subscriber giveaway.
Do not respond to anyone regarding the giveaway. It’s a fraud. It’s NOT me.
I apologize.
KJ5GKK

Forgot my gear. Didn’t let it stop me.

Paul The Southern Ham 2026-09-21 | Headed out to do a park activation and forgot half my gear. I dug around in the truck and found pieces to mash together for an antenna system. I wasn't sure it would even work, but in the end, it was roughly 99% efficient. Lesson is, don't chaise perfect, just use what you have and get out there and have fun.
#pota
#parksontheair
#hamradio
#hamradiooperator
#hamradioantenna
#antenna
#portableradio
#radio

Equipment used:

@YaesuUSAOfficial FT-891
@ABRindCoax
@LDGElectronics-2
@ecoworthy_official 20ah
@GigaPartsHuntsville
@DXEngineering
@wrcoils 12" tripod
Amazon Red Slug antenna feed point
@ChameleonAntennaOfficial SS-25
@theelmerbrand

Thanks for watching.
Paul
KJ5GKK

Upcoming Ham Events for October 2026!

Paul The Southern Ham 2026-09-20 | October brings the end (hopefully) of the summer doldrums and the arrival of fall weather. It also is time for some exciting events in Amateur Radio. Here are just a few.

For information on these events, visit the websites below:

Georgia Fall POTA Sprint: www.gaparks.org

Melbourne Florida Hamfest: pcars.org/wp/melbourne-hamfest-2026
@W4MLB

Slidell Louisiana Hamfest: http://www.w5sla.net/hamfest.htm
@W5SLA

I will present a POTA Forum at the Slidell Hamfest on Saturday, October 17th at 12:00 p.m.

#pota
#parksontheair
#hamradioevents
#hamfest
#hamradio
#hamradiooperator
#october
#portableradio
#radio

Thanks for stopping by.
Paul
KJ5GKK

Nothing more fun than 2 ops! Activating LA with Gary, KQ4TAX!

Paul The Southern Ham 2026-09-19 | If operation as a POTA activator is FUN, operating with a friend is double the FUN. My Buddy Gary, KQ4TAX, was traveling through LA on his way to New Orleans. He didn't want to miss the opportunity to activate in the State of Louisiana and notch another State in his POTA log. So, of course I helped him make it happen. We identified US-4071 as a convenient location, just off of I-59 , to get the job done. I had the AC on in the truck and the ATAS ready to get us started on 40m. When Gary pulled in, it was as simple as hopping in the cab and getting on the mic. What we experienced was the biggest pileup I've heard in months. It was more fun than if I had written the script. Congratulations Gary. I am honored to have been a part of your first Louisiana activation. Come back any time.
#pota
#parksontheair
#dualoperators
#hamradio
#amateurradio
#hamradiooperator
#hamradioantenna
#portableradio
#parks #radio
#radiofun

Equipment used:
@YaesuUSAOfficial FT-891
@YaesuUSAOfficial ATAS-120A
@ChameleonAntennaOfficial SS-17
@ecoworthy_official 20ah Battery
@GigaPartsHuntsville
@DXEngineering
@gabil-radio

Thanks for watching. If you enjoyed the video, please LIKE and consider subscribingg.
Paul
KJ5GKK

Simple 20m activation. DX to Columbia, Belize, Mexico, & ND?

Paul The Southern Ham 2026-09-17 | 20m is alive again.

#pota
#parksontheair
#hamradioantenna
#hamradio #hamradiooperator
#portableradio
#antenna
#radioantenna
#amateurradio
#portableantenna
#radioantenna

Equipment used:
@YaesuUSAOfficial FT-891
@ecoworthy_official 20ah battery
@ChameleonAntennaOfficial SS-17

Amazon links:
Gabil GRA-AD35: https://a.co/d/0gsLkzQb
Comet 3D5MB: https://a.co/d/0iVo8QeW
Nilight bracket: https://a.co/d/05zMQZZ1 (IMPORTANT NOTE: IF YOU USE THIS BRACKET, YOU MUST DRILL OUT THE SLOTTED SIDE TO A MINIMUM 5/8" TO ALLOW THE SO-239 TO PASS THROUGH. THESE ARE LIGHT BRACKETS, NOT ANTENNA MOUNTS. YOU HAVE TO DO A LITTLE WORK TO MAKE THEM WORK.)

If you enjoyed this video, please LIKE and consider subscribing to the channel.
Thank you,
Paul
KJ5GKK

Great DX call from ZF1PB, Cayman Islands

Paul The Southern Ham 2026-09-17 | When activating portable, you never know what you’ll get! Especially around saltwater!
Great DX with ZF1PB. Thank you Phil!
#pota
#parksontheair
#amateurradio
#hamradio
#hamradiooperator

Link to full video:
youtu.be/loqg1dZxRpY

EFHW “FLAT TOPPER” performs on a tough band day!

Paul The Southern Ham 2026-09-16 | SPOOLTENNA is always coming out with new products and accessories, but the new Clamp Mount and detachable Tripod Mount make deployment and retrieval of your SPOOLTENNA a breeze. If you're a fan of the antennas, both Parks Model and Ultra, you've just gotta have the clamp.
I set up my Parks Model in a Flat Topper at 17'. It worked GREAT. The bands were a mess and I was still getting 59 reports and in some cased told I was the best signal on the band. I just love this antenna.

#pota
#parksontheair
#hamradio
#hamradiooperator
#hamradioantenna
#endfedhalfwave
#portableantenna
#antenna
#portableradio
#amateurradio

@YaesuUSAOfficial FT-891
@GigaPartsHuntsville
@DXEngineering
@ABRindCoax
@SPOOLTENNA Parks Model
@ecoworthy_official 20ah battery
@JamesHannibalKH2SR Mammoth Mat
@LDGElectronics-2 Z-100 plus

SPOOLTENNA LINKS:
CLAMP MOUNT: spooltenna.com/products/clamp-mount
TRIPOD MOUNT: spooltenna.com/products/tripod-mount
PARKS MODEL: spooltenna.com/products/spooltenna
ULTRA MODEL: spooltenna.com/products/spooltenna-ultra-efhw4010

USE CODE: KJ5GKK FOR FREE SHIPPING ON ALL ORDERS AT SPOOLTENNA.COM

Thanks for watching,
Paul
KJ5GKK

Cayman Islands from US-1042, Gulf State Park, Alabama! Beautiful weather, great antenna!

Paul The Southern Ham 2026-09-15 | While on the Alabama Coast, the weather finally cleared on Sunday morning. On the shoreline of Lake Shelby (or Shelby Lake) in Gulf State Park, US-1042, I was finally able to activate from outside of the truck cab.
I put up the vertical and Buddy coil to start on 40m. The system tuned up to 1.05:1 and I was off to the races. Thankfully, both 40m and 20m cooperated and I enjoyed a great time on the picnic table. One of the hi-lights was a great DX contact in the Cayman Islands! Thanks PHIL.
#pota
#parksontheair
#hamradio
#hamradiooperator
#hamradioantenna
#portableradio
#antenna
#amateurradio

Buddy Coil
For information or to purchase, email Brent: n4bdw73@gmail.com.
@Brent_N4BDW

@YaesuUSAOfficial FT-891
@GigaPartsHuntsville
@DXEngineering
@ecoworthy_official 20ah battery
@theelmerbrand choke
@ChameleonAntennaOfficial SS-25
@ABRindCoax
@LDGElectronics-2 Z-100 plus tuner

Thanks for watching. If you enjoyed the video, please LIKE and consider subscribing.
Paul
KJ5GKK

Tough activation at US-0025, Fort Morgan State Historic Site in Alabama.

Paul The Southern Ham 2026-09-13 | As I sometimes say, some days peanuts, some days shells. This was very much a shell day. It was a contest weekend and the bands were packed with contesters and POTA ops. On top of that, there was lots of noise and QSB as well. In true Southern Ham fashion, we pushed through and got the activation done.
Fort Morgan State Historic Site is a fascinating place with buildings and remnants for buildings dating back to 1819. The Fort saw action in the Civil War and was actively manned in WWI.
#pota
#parksontheair
#hamradio
#hamradioantenna
#hamradiooperator
#portableradio
#antenna
#parks

@YaesuUSAOfficial FT-891 and ATAS 120A
@GigaPartsHuntsville
@ecoworthy_official 20ah battery
@DXEngineering
@Lidoradio

Thanks for watching. If you enjoyed this video, please LIKE and consider subscribing.
Paul
KJ5GKK

Calling out Walt, K4OGO! This Saltwater Amp just ain’t fair!

Paul The Southern Ham 2026-09-12 | In this video, I'm calling out Walt, K4OGO! It just ain't fair @COASTALWAVESWIRES ! Most of us are inland dwellers and don't have access to this amazing thing you call the Salt Water Amplifier. So even though I'm calling you out, I'm going to take full advantage while I can. This thing is no joke. Every POTA operator should treat themselves to a coastal trip, Atlantic, Gulf of America, or Pacific, it doesn't matter. Just get close and you're the darling of the band. I haven't experienced DX like this since the winter of 24' when all the bands were on fire.
#pota
#parksontheair
#saltwateramplifier
#antenna
#hamradio
#hamradioantenna
#amateurradio
@COASTALWAVESWIRES

Thank you Walt for letting me poke a little fun.
Paul
KJ5GKk

Quick ATAS-120A activation on the Gulf Coast of Alabama at US-1042!!

Paul The Southern Ham 2026-09-12 | Our trip down to the AL/FL Gulf Coast, started with a quick activation at Gulf State Park, US-1042. The ATAS-120A did not disappoint. I'm really loving this mobile setup. For a shortened, very compromised antenna, the ATAS really performs.
For those who jsut don't have hours to devote to an activation, this thing is amazing. Just pull into the park, hit the tune button, and you're off to the races.
#pota
#parksontheair
#hamradioantenna
#hamradio
#hamradiooperator
#hamradiolife
#antena
#radioantenna

@YaesuUSAOfficial FT-891
@YaesuUSAOfficial ATAS-120A
@GigaPartsHuntsville
@ecoworthy_official 20ah battery
@JamesHannibalKH2SR
@DXEngineering

Thanks for watching. If you enjoyed the video, please LIKE and consider subscribing.
73
Paul
KJ5GKk

Adapt your SO-239 to 3/8x24 for more antenna options! My beach activation setup!

Paul The Southern Ham 2026-09-10 | I like having options. I really like options when it comes to antennas. i recently installed the ATAS 120A on my truck and am real pleased with the setup. However, I began to wonder what it the ATAS broke, or failed to tune? Or what if I didn't have the ATAS at all? Could I adapt the install to other antennas? I did a little looking around and found the solution. The Gabil GRA-AD35 is the perfect solution for adapting the UHF/SO-239 mount to 3/8x24. Now I can use any of my many antennas with a male 3/8x24.
In this video, I do just that. I attach my Chameleon SS-17 and holy cow! I'm heading out to do some Beach activations along the Gulf Coast and I think this may be my go to setup.
#pota
#parksontheair
#hamradioantenna
#hamradio #hamradiooperator
#portableradio
#antenna
#radioantenna

Amazon links:
Gabil GRA-AD35: https://a.co/d/0gsLkzQb
Comet 3D5MB: https://a.co/d/0iVo8QeW
Nilight bracket: https://a.co/d/05zMQZZ1 (IMPORTANT NOTE: IF YOU USE THIS BRACKET, YOU MUST DRILL OUT THE SLOTTED SIDE TO A MINIMUM 5/8" TO ALLOW THE SO-239 TO PASS THROUGH. THESE ARE LIGHT BRACKETS, NOT ANTENNA MOUNTS. YOU HAVE TO DO A LITTLE WORK TO MAKE THEM WORK.)

If you enjoyed this video, please LIKE and consider subscribing to the channel.
Thank you,
Paul
KJ5GKK

Dueling antennas. Two great ones go head to head.

Paul The Southern Ham 2026-09-10 | A side by side comparison. EFHW & 17’ vertical.

Link to full video: youtu.be/A1CKlhCuroY?si=vEXlcVy4fow34L13

#pota
#parksontheair
#hamradio
#hamradioantenna
#antenna

Vertical vs EFHW! Which one WINS? A side by side comparison.

Paul The Southern Ham 2026-09-09 | I've long wanted to do a real time, side by side comparison of antennas. In this video we'll use an A/B switch, an EFHW, and a telescoping vertical to do just that. This was not only fun, but fascinating. There were noticeable differences and clear S meter readings showing the difference in the two antennas. We were assisted by several operators more than willing to assist by allowing me to switch between the two antennas to get signal reports. This was really fun. I hope you find it useful.
#pota
#parksontheair
#potaantenna
#hamradio #hamradioantenna
#hamradiooperator
#antennaswitch
#antenna
#amateurradio

@YaesuUSAOfficial FT-891
@ABRindCoax
@ChameleonAntennaOfficial SS-25
@SPOOLTENNA Parks Model 4010 EFHW
@ecoworthy_official 20ah battery
@theelmerbrand Choke
@Brent_N4BDW Buddy Coil (for info, email: n4bdw73@gmail.com)
@CoffeeandHamRadios Choke

Thanks for watching. If you enjoyed the video, please LIKE and consider Subscribing.
73
Paul
KJ5GKk

Thank You! 4,000 Subscribers!

Paul The Southern Ham 2026-09-07 | I never dreamed this little channel would reach this level. 4,000 subscribers is a level hard to wrap my head around. I’m so humbled.
Thank you everyone!
#pota
#parksontheair
#hamradio
#hamradiolife
#hamradiooperator

HF Mobile installation. Yaesu FT-891/ATAS 120A

Paul The Southern Ham 2026-09-06 | My HF Mobile station is complete!
Link to full video:

My Dream HF Mobile Station! ATAS-120A/FT-891!

Paul The Southern Ham 2026-09-05 | Ever since I got my Technician and General in May of 24', I've dreamed of a nice HF Mobile station I could activate parks with from the comfort of my truck. Our Louisiana summers are brutal and our winters can be miserable. I also like to do multi park roves. This setup will allow me to do all I've dreamed of.
I saved up the funds and purchased my second Yaesu FT-891 and the Yaesu ATAS-120A antenna along with the LIDO RAdio L-Max 2.0 mounting solution. With some great advice from Rob, K4MHD, it all came together.
With this type of install, the 40m tune seemed to be the one wild card. I got lucky and she tuned like a charm on 40m, 20m, 17m, 15m, & 10m. I haven't yet tried 6m but I'm sure it'll tune just fine.
#yaesu
#atas120a
#pota
#parksontheair
#hamradio
#hamradiooperator
#hamradioantenna
#amateurradio

@YaesuUSAOfficial FT-891
@YaesuUSAOfficial ATAS-120A
@ecoworthy_official 20ah battery
Comet 3D5MB : https://a.co/d/07ymW0oi

NILight Ditch Light Bracket: https://a.co/d/0aWGR3iv IMPORTANT NOTE: IF YOU CHOOSE TO USE THESE BRACKETS, YOU'LL NEED TO DRILL OUT THE SLOTTED SIDE TO A MINIMUM OF 5/8 INCHES TO ACCOMODATE THE SO-239 CONNECTOR.

Power Distribution Block: https://a.co/d/0aZ0tRDh

Thanks for watching.
If you enjoy the channel, please LIKE this video and consider subscribing.
73
Paul
KJ5GKK

Some Southern Ham Advice! Don’t worry about conditions.

Paul The Southern Ham 2026-09-03 | Don’t worry about band conditions. Set up a good antenna and call CQ.
#pota
#parksontheair
#antenna
#hamradio
#hamradiooperator

Link to full video: youtu.be/BpvMTWupspI

40m was dead. The BUDDY COIL & SS-25 still got it done!

Paul The Southern Ham 2026-09-02 | I love my BUDDY COIL from Brent, N4BDW. I've always used it with my 17' whip, but I thought "what if I only had a 25' whip"? Well of course it will work. Just shorten the whip and let the coil do the rest.
So, as luck would have it, the 40m band was dead. And, I mean D-E-A-D Dead. The antenna tuned up beautifully on 40m and I started calling CQ I thought it was a lost cause. But slowly things began to turn. In the end, I made 12 contacts and got a successful activation in the log.
You just go out and call CQ.
#pota
#parksontheair
#hamradio
#hamradioantenna
#portableradio
#portableradioantenna
#antenna

Equipment used:
@YaesuUSAOfficial FT-891
@ABRindCoax
@LDGElectronics-2
@ecoworthy_official 20ah battery
@ChameleonAntennaOfficial SS-25 whip
@JamesHannibalKH2SR Mammoth Mat
@theelmerbrand choke
Feather flag base: https://a.co/d/0ePmzZ6c

@Brent_N4BDW The BUDDY COIL For information on pricing and how to get your own BUDDY Coil, email Brent: n4bdw73@gmail.com

Thanks for watching.
If you enjoyed this video, please LIKE and consider subscribing to my channel.
73s
Paul
KJ5GKK

Compromised antenna gets the job done!

Paul The Southern Ham 2026-09-01 | Link to full video: Even the most compromised antenna works! At least this one does.
youtu.be/rQW6RH06MwY

#pota
#parksontheair
#portableradio
#hamradioantenna

Even the most compromised antenna works! At least this one does.

Paul The Southern Ham 2026-08-31 | I often say, K.I.S.S., Keep it simple stupid. Radio doesn't have to be complicated. Use what you have. There is no perfect setup.
In a previous video I built what was likely my most efficient antenna ever. In this one, I deploy what is certainly my most compromised antenna, the Gabil GRA-CFS20. It's a very small carbon fiber whip for the 20m band.
On a day when conditions weren't optimal, this little antenna got the park activated in no time, and did it in style. I received great signal reports from all over the country. This is a fun one.
#pota
#parksontheair
#parksontheairantenna
#hamradio
#hamradioantenna
#hamradiooperator
#portableradio
#getoutthere

Equipment used:

@YaesuUSAOfficial FT-891
@ABRindCoax
@LDGElectronics-2 Z-100 plus Tuner
@ecoworthy_official 20ah battery
@gabil-radio GRA-CFS20
@looknorthdesigns Suction Mount
@JamesHannibalKH2SR Quirky QRP Mammoth Mat

Amazon links:
Gabil CFS20: https://a.co/d/0b1HduDS
Look North Designs Mount: https://a.co/d/07VkzGUY

I AM NOT AN AMAZON AFFILIATE. THESE LINKS ARE PROVIDED ONLY AS A COURTESY.

Thanks for watching. If you enjoyed the video, please LIKE and consider subscribing.
73
Paul
KJ5GKK

If you want a super efficient antenna, build a dipole!

Paul The Southern Ham 2026-08-30 | Sometimes the simplest thing is best. Certainly when it comes to HF antennas, that is the case. Watch the full video to see my build of the cheapest, yet most efficient antenna I've ever built.
Link to full video:
youtu.be/aOgq0djhx64?si=uPXM3YFHNlilRvMl

My cheapest, but most efficient antenna build ever! You can do it too!

Paul The Southern Ham 2026-08-30 | Y'all know how much I love antennas, Well, I may have nailed it. This video features the build of my cheapest, yet most efficient antenna ever. It tuned to 1.01:1 at 7.180 MHz with a Resistance of 50.2 ohms. It simply doesn't get much better.
So, in true Southern Ham fashion, I put it to the POTA test and it performed like a champ.
#potaantenna
#pota
#parksontheair
#parksontheairantenna
#hamradio
#hamradioantenna
#hamradiooperator
#dipole
#wireantenna
#portableradio

@YaesuUSAOfficial FT-891
@ABRindCoax
@LDGElectronics-2
@ecoworthy_official 20ah Battery
@CoffeeandHamRadios choke
@bntechgo 20awg wire

Amazon Links: (I'm not affiliated with Amazon. These are provided for your convenience)
Binding Posts: https://a.co/d/02DhL7KA This is a similar binding post to the one I used in the antenna build.
Wire Splicers: https://a.co/d/0avce4B9

Thank you for watching. If you enjoy the channel, please LIKE this video and consider subscribing.

73
Paul
KJ5GKK

What if? What if I mashed up the JPC-12 and The Picnic POTA?

Paul The Southern Ham 2026-08-29 | I mashed up my JPC-12 with the PICNIC POTA setup. It worked great.

Full Video: youtu.be/7nPhXkAmh3k?si=meQkwgt6-gnXYbhA

#pota
#parksontheair
#hamradio
#potaantenna
#hamradioantenna

JPC-12/Picnic POTA MASHUP! For those with the JPC-12 but no 17’ whip!

Paul The Southern Ham 2026-08-28 | What if? What if you wanted to set up my PICNIC POTA but don't have a 17' whip, but you do own the JPC-12? Well here's the mashup you've been waiting for.
I blend both antenna systems into one really cool mashup. And, it works great.

#parksontheair
#pota
#hamradioantenna
#hamradio
#hamoperator
#portableradio
#amatuerradio
#potaantenna
#disabledham
#wheelchairham
#wheelchairradio

Equipment used:
@YaesuUSAOfficial FT-891
@ABRindCoax
@LDGElectronics-2 Z-100 plus tuner (not needed with this antenna)
@chameleonantenna3457 SS-17
@Lenovo
@smartlogger
@ecoworthy_official 20ah battery

@corallee8451 JPC-12
Amazon link to JPC-12: https://a.co/d/00jnLnBi

Adapter: https://a.co/d/0gM7EByx

Amazon links for items similar to those used in the video. I'm not an Amazon affiliate. Buy using these links at your own risk.

Mirror mount: https://a.co/d/02tvAh8l

Home Depot link:
Electric Fence Post: homedepot.com/p/Fi-Shock-48-in-Plastic-White-Step-in-Fence-Post-A-48/100287520

Thank you for watching!
If you enjoy the video hit that LIKE button. If you enjoy the channel, please consider Subscribing.
73,
Paul
KJ5GKK

Introducing the SPOOLTENNA Clamp Mount

Paul The Southern Ham 2026-08-28 | Link to full video:

Introducing the newest offering from SPOOLTENNA! The SPOOLTENNA Clamp Mount!
youtu.be/V_78TBo6H5o

#hamradioantenna
#potaantenna
#portableradio
#pota
#parksontheair

A look at 2 items that came home from Huntsville! The Elmer Brand choke and the 40 Proof Coil.

Paul The Southern Ham 2026-08-27 | 40I was so blessed during the 2026 Huntsville Hamfest. I was able to meet so many folks who enjoy my little channel and shake their hands. Two of those were kind enough to gift me a couple of fantastic additions to my portable kit.
Craig, W5CBW (Between the Whiskeys on YouTube) gave me one of his 40 PROOF Coils. This little coil packs a huge punch. With my 17' whip on top, it tuned to 1.08:1 SWR. And, it's so easy to jump over to 20m by using the banana plug jumper to bypass the coil. Thank you Craig!
The other was Eric, W4EPS, owner of The Elmer Brand. Eric gave me one of his fantastic chokes, customized with my call sign. This choke is made with nothing but the best of materials.
With these two new items in play, I easily activated US-2357, Bogue Chitto State Park in SE Louisiana.
#pota
#parksontheair
#hamradio
#potaantenna
#parksontheairantenna
#hamradioantenna
#portableradio

@YaesuUSAOfficial FT-891
@ABRindCoax
@ChameleonAntennaOfficial SS-17
@theelmerbrand Choke
@W4EPS
@CraigW5CBW 40 Proof Coil
@LDGElectronics-2 Z-100 Plus tuner
@ecoworthy_official 20ah battery

Thank you for watching. Please LIKE and consider Subscribing.
73
Paul
KJ5GKK

Elevate that feed point! Get da signal way out der!

Paul The Southern Ham 2026-08-27 | Elevate your feed point and get your signal out! @SPOOLTENNA
#pota
#parksontheair
#hamradio
#hamradiooperator

My first activation after Huntsville! Great to be back in the park!

Paul The Southern Ham 2026-08-26 | My first trip to the park after Huntsville Hamfest. It was great to get back on the radio. The SPOOLTENNA Parks Model performed like a champ. I elevated the feed point by attaching it to my painter's pole using the soon to be released SPOOLTENNA Clamp Mount. I made a special contact with Mike, KE0VIM, The Travelin Ham.

#pota
#parksontheair
#radiocommunication
#hamradioantenna
#hamradio
#portableradio
#potaantenna
#hamradiooperator
@SPOOLTENNA

Spooltenna news: I'm now an Affiliate with @SPOOLTENNA ! I couldn't be more proud to promote a product I feel so strongly about.
Use the COUPON CODE: KJ5GKK for FREE Shipping on anything form the Spooltenna website at spooltenna.com/.

Equipment used:
@YaesuUSAOfficial FT-891
@ABRindCoax
@ecoworthy_official 20ah Battery
@smartlogger
@SPOOLTENNA Parks Model
@JamesHannibalKH2SR Quirky QRP Mammoth Mat
@GigaPartsHuntsville
@DXEngineering

Amazon Links:
Carbon Fiber painter's pole: https://a.co/d/072XWswL
I am not an Amazon Affiliate. Do your own research before purchasing anything.

Thanks for watching. If you enjoyed this video, please consider subscribing to my channel.
73
Paul
KJ5GKK

Introducing the newest offering from SPOOLTENNA! The SPOOLTENNA Clamp Mount!

Paul The Southern Ham 2026-08-25 | Wow Y'all! The folks at SPOOLTENNA have done it again. This is the first look at the soon to be released SPOOLTENNA Clamp Mount. This mounting system makes what was already the easiest to deploy and retrieve EFHW even easier. Watch the video to see the various ways you can use this clamp mount to enhance your portable activation.
Visit the website often to be one of the first to get your hands on this great accessory.
@SPOOLTENNA
www.spooltenna.com

I am an affiliate of SPOOLTENNA. Use CODE: KJ5GKK for FREE shipping on your entire order of anything from SPOOLTENNA.

My visit with Rick, owner and operator of The Sign Man of Baton Rouge. Huntsville Hamfest 2026

Paul The Southern Ham 2026-08-25 | The Sign Man of Baton Rouge is your source for all things Ham related.....badges, caps, name plates, license tags, etc.
Website: thesignman.com
Email Rick at: rick@thesignman.com

#hamradio
#hamradiostuff
#hamradiooperator
#pota
#parksontheair

Huntsville Hamfest….. The World’s Friendliest Hamfest.

Paul The Southern Ham 2026-08-24 | The Huntsville Hamfest advertises itself as the World's Friendliest Hamfest. Having been 3 years in a row, I must agree! The thing I love most about this hobby is the people. Thank you to everyone who stopped by to say hello. I appreciate everyone of you. If I missed you this year, let's not let that happen next time.
73
Paul

#hamfest
#pota
#parksontheair
#hamradio
#hamradiooperator

My visit with Rob, KO4HUI, maker of Spooltenna! What’s he got coming to market? Huntsville Hamfest!

Paul The Southern Ham 2026-08-24 | On Sunday of Huntsville Hamfest 2026, I stopped by to visit with Rob, the maker of Spooltenna. They were completely sold out of antennas after a very successful show. Rob tells a little of what we can expect to see coming down the road from Spooltenna.
Thank you for your time Rob!

#pota
#parksontheair
#radiocommunication
#hamradioantenna
#hamradio
#portableradio
#potaantenna
#hamradiooperator
@SPOOLTENNA

Spooltenna news: I'm now an Affiliate with @SPOOLTENNA ! I couldn't be more proud to promote a product I feel so strongly about.
Use the COUPON CODE: KJ5GKK for FREE Shipping on anything form the Spooltenna website at spooltenna.com/.

Two New CW Initiatives: QRQ Crew and the Brass Knuckle Gang! Cool stuff happening.

Paul The Southern Ham 2026-08-24 | Two new initiatives in CW: QRQ Crew, for high speed CW and Brass Knuckle Gang promoting 2m CW. I visit with Jay, KQ4DUX at the booth during the Huntsville Hamfest. Jay gives us an insight into these two programs for adult and youth CW operators.
Thanks to Jay @jayKQ4DUX for giving us his time share about these programs.
Check the websites:
qrqcrew.club
bkg.club

#hamradio
#hamradiocommunity
#morsecode
#cw
#hamradiooperator

Listening to Carlos, K9OL, fall from the sky! On purpose!

Paul The Southern Ham 2026-08-24 | Listening to Carlos, K9OL, call CQ while parachute mobile! Check out his channel at youtube.com/@LifeAtTerminalVelocity

#hamradio
#hamradiooperator
#parachute
#parachuteradio
@LifeAtTerminalVelocity

LIDO RADIO! No Holes Mounting Solutions. My interview with Jim. N7LDO

Paul The Southern Ham 2026-08-22 | LIDO Radio is the leader in 'no holes' mounting solutions for radios of all kinds. Since I'm trying to build out a mobile setup in the POTA wagon (my 2018 F-150), a solid mounting solution was the place to start.
Jim, N7LDO was a great help in explaining the best option for my radios and offered to share a little info on LIDO.
If you are looking for mounting solutions for your radio, visit lidoradio.com.
@Lidoradio
@N7LDO

Thank you Jim for spending a little time with us.
Paul
KJ5GKK

The Faces of Huntsville Hamfest 2026! This is a great community.

Paul The Southern Ham 2026-08-22 | This is simply a wonderful community of fantastic people. How is it possible that the Ham community is full of all of these amazing people. All different, from all parts of the world, from different backgrounds, with one common thread.......Amateur Radio.
#hamradio
#hamradiooperator
#parksontheair
#pota

YouTubers Cookout! Great fun, great people, great cause! Huntsville Hamfest 2026

Paul The Southern Ham 2026-08-22 | This was just amazing. Kyle, AA0Z, put in untold hours planning this event and his work paid off in spades. There were dozens of volunteers who brought food, donated money, and volunteered their time to make this happen. The numbers were in excess of 250 people fed and many more who can for the fun. This is an amazing community. Thank you to everyone who helped to pull this off.
Kyle, @AA0Z
Jason, @HamRadio2
And so many more!
If you've never come up to MONTE SANO State Park on the Friday before Huntsville Hamfest, I highly recommend you come next year. It is the event at the Hamfest.

#hamradio
#hamradiooperator
#parksontheair
#pota

20m Dipole.. The little antenna that could, may be the little antenna that will at Solar minimum!

Paul The Southern Ham 2026-08-19 | The wire dipole is one of the easiest and most efficient antennas you can build for portable operations. This is my take on this simple design. Using a 1:1 Voltage Balun and some BNTechGo wire I built the little 20m dipole
Elevating it on my carbon fiber painter's pole was made easy with the help of a couple of 3D printed pieces that Thomas, KR4LAI, sent me the files for.

Thank you Thomas!

If you would like the 3D print files for the Mast Spacer and/or the Dipole Hanger, shoot me an email at paulrowen@cox.net requesting the files.

#pota
#parksontheair
#radioantenna
#hamradioantenna
#hamradio
#radiocommunication
#potaantenna
#parksontheairantenna
#20mdipole
#dipoleantenna

I am not an Amazon affiliate I do not make any commissions on products purchased from Amazon. Purchase at you own risk.
For more information on the 1:1 Balun used in the video, copy and paste this link.
Amazon Link for
Balun: https://a.co/d/cnYtzIw
Carbon Fiber painter's pole: https://a.co/d/072XWswL
1/4 thread adapter: https://a.co/d/0eV9UubO (fits on the painter's pole)
Drive on flag holder: https://a.co/d/0hQa1ZEJ

Equipment used:
@YaesuUSAOfficial FT-891
@ABRindCoax Coax
@ecoworthy_official 20ah battery
@LDGElectronics-2 Z-100 plus autotuner
@JamesHannibalKH2SR Quirky QRP Mammoth Mat
@smartlogger
@ParksOnTheAir
@DXEngineering
@GigaPartsHuntsville

Thank you for watching. Please Like, Comment, and Subscribe.

Thank you POTA! You’re showing me places I’ve never seen!

Paul The Southern Ham 2026-08-17 | Thanks to Parks on the Air, I’m seeing parts of my home state of Louisiana, and other parts of the country, I otherwise would have never seen!
#pota
#parksontheair
#portablehamradio
#hamradio

Hamstick Dipole activation, US-10456, Esler Field WMA, Louisiana.

Paul The Southern Ham 2026-08-17 | Parks on the Air has shown me parts of my home state of Louisiana, and other parts of the country, that I would otherwise have never seen. This activation brings me the Esler Field WMA in central Louisiana. Esler was formerly known as Camp Beauregard. It is still an active Louisiana National Guard training site and many areas are designated as "off limits". The hamstick dipole got the job done and this new to me park in the log.

#pota
#radioantenna
#hamradio
#parksontheair
#antenna
#portableradio
#hamradioantenna

Equipment used:
@YaesuUSAOfficial FT-891
@ABRindCoax RG-174
@ecoworthy_official 20ah Battery
@GigaPartsHuntsville
@DXEngineering
@JamesHannibalKH2SR Mammoth Mat
@LDGElectronics-2 Z-100 Plus
@CoffeeandHamRadios choke

Shark Hamstick Antenna gigaparts.com/shark-mono-band-verticals-20m-44in.html

Storage tube link: https://a.co/d/00AVU8z2
Knob screws for Shark Hamsticks: https://a.co/d/094VrJDC
Knob screws for MFJ Hamsticks: https://a.co/d/09K6A61R

I am not an Amazon affiliate. Order at your own risk. Research the thread type needed for your application before ordering.

Thank you for watching. If you enjoyed the video, please LIKE and consider SUBSCRIBING!
73
Paul
KJ5GKK

40m Activation combining the Picnic POTA setup with the BDW Coil. Including a lesson in POTA Math!

Paul The Southern Ham 2026-08-16 | Sometimes you just want to relax. I just wanted to change things up and do a little 40m activation. So, I combined two of my favorites when comes to antennas, the Picnic POTA Setup with the BDW Coil.
The BDW Coil, from Brent, N4BDW, is an amazing coil that, when combined with a 17' or 25' whip will get you on 40m and 80m and with a 75' wire on 160m.
The system performed like a champ and I had a blast.
In the video there is a great example of what I call "POTA Math", 2 Ops, 5 Parks = 10 Contacts! That's POTA Math.

#parksontheair
#pota
#hamradioantenna
#hamradio
#hamoperator
#portableradio
#amatuerradio
#sadham
#potaantenna

Equipment used:
@YaesuUSAOfficial FT-891
@ABRindCoax
@LDGElectronics-2 Z-100 plus tuner
@chameleonantenna3457 SS-17
@Lenovo
@smartlogger
@ecoworthy_official 20ah battery

@Brent_N4BDW BDW Coils
For more information, email Brent at N4BDW73@gmail.com

Amazon links for items similar to those used in the video. I'm not an Amazon affiliate. Buy using these links at your own risk.
Quick Grip Clamp: https://a.co/d/0cJkCzMY
Mirror mount: https://a.co/d/02tvAh8l

Home Depot link:
Electric Fence Post: homedepot.com/p/Fi-Shock-48-in-Plastic-White-Step-in-Fence-Post-A-48/100287520

Thank you for watching!
If you enjoy the video hit that LIKE button. If you enjoy the channel, please consider Subscribing.
73,
Paul
KJ5GKK

What’s with the V-Dipole? How does it help?

Paul The Southern Ham 2026-08-15 | The V-Dipole! Another creative way to deploy Hamsticks!
#potaantenna
#hamradioantenna
#parksontheair
#dipole
#pota
#hamradio

US-4056 Dewey Willis WMA. New to me park w/ the Spooltenna Parks Model.

Paul The Southern Ham 2026-08-15 | This was a NTM (new to me) Park. Dewey Willis WMA, US-4056 in central Louisiana was a park I'd never been to. I found my way deep into this huge piece of property and strung up the Spooltenna 4010 EFHW. When all other fail, this antenna simply gets the job done. To heck with the Summer Doldrums, we activated in less than 6 minutes. I'll take that any time of year.
If you enjoy activations, this video is for you.

#pota
#parksontheair
#radiocommunication
#hamradioantenna
#hamradio
#portableradio
#potaantenna
#hamradiooperator
@SPOOLTENNA

Spooltenna news: I'm now an Affiliate with @SPOOLTENNA ! I couldn't be more proud to promote a product I feel so strongly about.
Use the COUPON CODE: KJ5GKK for FREE Shipping on anything form the Spooltenna website at spooltenna.com/.
Or, use this affiliate link when visiting the Spooltenna website:
spooltenna.com/?sca_ref=10642949.OhkQgVU5SK

Equipment used:
@YaesuUSAOfficial FT-891
@ABRindCoax
@ecoworthy_official 20ah Battery
@smartlogger
@SPOOLTENNA 4010 EFHW Parks Model
@JamesHannibalKH2SR Quirky QRP Mammoth Mat
@GigaPartsHuntsville
@DXEngineering

Thanks for watching. If you enjoyed this video, please consider subscribing to my channel.
73
Paul
KJ5GKK

The Hamstick! Part #4. They may be the most versatile antenna. The V-Dipole!

Paul The Southern Ham 2026-08-14 | The hamstick may just be the most versatile antenna. In this series we look at the many way you can deploy the lowly hamstick. In the installment we're looking at the V-Dipole. The Hydra feed point from Coffee and Ham Radios is the foundation of the setup. Two 20m Shark Hamsticks finish off the build. Come along and see just how much fun you can have with two sticks and a feed point.

#pota
#parksontheair
#hamradio
#hamradioantenna
#portableradio
#antenna
#potaantenna
#hamradiooperator
#hamradiostuff
#hamradiocommunity
#vdipole

@CoffeeandHamRadios
The Hydra feed point available from Coffee and Ham Radios.
For more information and to purchase products, email them @ coffeeandhamradios@gmail.com
youtube.com/coffeeandhamradios

Equipment used:
@YaesuUSAOfficial FT-891
@ABRindCoax
@LDGElectronics-2 Z-100plus tuner
@ecoworthy_official 20ah battery
@GigaPartsHuntsville
@DXEngineering
@RigExpert_Ukraine Stick 230
@CoffeeandHamRadios Hydra

Amazon Links: (copy and paste the links into your browser)
Carbon Fiber painter's pole: https://a.co/d/072XWswL
1/4 thread adapter: https://a.co/d/0eV9UubO (fits on the painter's pole)
Photo tripod thread - 3/8-24: https://a.co/d/0cIYMwu9 (this is the silver adapter in the video)
Drive on flag holder: https://a.co/d/0hQa1ZEJ
I am not an Amazon Affiliate. Do your own research before purchasing anything. I do not receive any commission or other payment from Amazon.

Thank you for watching. Please "LIKE" and consider subscribing to the channel.
73
Paul

NETS don’t own the frequencies and should follow the Code of Conduct.

Paul The Southern Ham 2026-08-14 | NET operators should follow the Code of Conduct like all the rest of us!
I was in the middle of a QSO with a youth operator who had just received his General when a Net operator burst in with power to let me know his NET was on an adjacent frequency. RUDE

#pota
#parksontheair
#codeofconduct
#nets
#netcontrol