Shakespeare
Shakespeare VHF 36In 5242-A SS Whip Low Profile End-Fed Antenna
Best compact antenna for small boat and center console communication.
Rediscover the popular Shakespeare legacy low-profile end-fed VHF antenna, now available due to customer demand. This 36-inch stainless steel whip antenna is designed for smaller vessels like bass boats and center consoles, offering a compact and efficient communication solution. Its improved press-and-twist bayonet fitting ensures quick and easy whip attachment and removal. The user-replaceable whip simplifies maintenance, and the included L-shaped bracket provides versatile mounting options. Ideal for marine VHF and Ham Radio applications, this antenna offers reliable performance for your communication needs on the water.
$121.04
Owner Satisfaction
4.7
/ 5
Category Rank
28
/ 1314
#28 in Antennas
Price vs Category Average
-59%
Below average
Antenna Type
12
/ Low-profile end-fed / wave VHF Whip Antenna
Who it's for
- Small boat owners needing a discreet, space-saving antenna
- Coastal sailors requiring rugged, corrosion-resistant marine equipment
- DIY boaters looking for easy, versatile mounting options
Who should skip it
- Captains needing long-range communication for offshore travel
- Users prioritizing maximum signal clarity and horizon reach
- High-speed boaters sensitive to wind-induced vibration noise
Performance breakdown
Signal Reliability
Half-wave design delivers consistent, clear communication across standard VHF marine channels.
Installation Simplicity
The press-and-twist bayonet fitting makes whip attachment effortless for any user.
Build Durability
Stainless steel construction withstands harsh saltwater environments with minimal long-term wear.
Mounting Versatility
Included L-bracket offers flexible placement options for tight center console spaces.
Maintenance Ease
User-replaceable whip design eliminates the need for full antenna system replacement.
Form Factor
Compact 36-inch profile prevents snagging on low-clearance boat storage or covers.
Key Specs
Antenna Type
Low-profile end-fed 1/2 wave VHF Whip Antenna
Whip Length
36 inches
Whip Material
Stainless steel
Construction
One Section
Mounting Hardware
L-shaped bracket included
Cable Requirement
No cable included
Applications
bass boats, center console fishing boats, small to medium vessels, Ham Radio
Frequency Band
VHF
Features
- Low-profile design for smaller boats
- Quick-release bayonet fitting for whip
- User-replaceable stainless steel whip
- Includes L-bracket for easy mounting
- Ideal for VHF and Ham Radio
- Legacy design, customer-requested return
What customers say
Customers consistently praise the exceptional quality and robust construction of this Shakespeare antenna. Its stainless steel whip and low profile design make installation straightforward, earning high marks for ease of use. The primary sentiment revolves around its unwavering reliability, even in challenging marine environments. Users appreciate that this antenna delivers consistent performance without fail, making it a trustworthy component of their vessel's communication system. It is viewed as a durable, set it and forget it solution that justifies the investment.
Know before you buy
No, the antenna does not include a coaxial cable. You will need to purchase a compatible cable separately to complete your installation.
Yes, the antenna features a press-and-twist bayonet fitting that allows you to quickly detach the stainless steel whip without tools, making it ideal for boats that are frequently trailered or stored.
Absolutely. Its 36-inch low-profile design is specifically engineered for smaller vessels like center consoles and bass boats where space is limited and a compact footprint is required.
The whip is designed to be user-replaceable. If it becomes bent or damaged, you can simply purchase a replacement whip and attach it to the existing base using the bayonet fitting.
Yes, this antenna is designed to support both marine VHF and Ham Radio applications, providing a versatile communication solution for your vessel.
Still have a question?
Ask Hayley anything about this product before you decide.