Fox Hunting

Fox Hunting

What is Fox Hunting?

Fox Hunting (also called Radio Direction Finding, or RDF) is a fun and challenging amateur radio activity where participants use radios and antennas to locate hidden transmitters — called “foxes.”
These transmitters are hidden around the city or local parks, and each hunter uses signal direction and triangulation techniques to find their location.

During an event, a primary fox frequency is announced in advance. When the event begins, the fox becomes active, transmitting a repeating beacon signal every 30–45 seconds. Once you find one fox, it may lead you to others!

It’s a friendly competition that builds skills useful for search and rescue, emergency communication, and antenna experimentation — or just a great way to spend an afternoon outdoors.

How a Typical W4TRC Fox Hunt Works

• 📻 Frequencies Used:
  • 5 W Fox – 146.535 MHz
  • 700 mW Fox – 146.595 MHz
  • 15 mW Fox – 147.465 MHz
  • 0.5 mW Fox – 147.585 MHz
• 🕑 Schedule:
  • Check-ins begin around 2:45 PM on the W4TRC 146.970 MHz repeater
  • The foxes activate at 3:00 PM and transmit intermittently throughout the hunt
• 📍 Starting Point:
  • Hunters may begin anywhere they like.
  • Many meet informally near Big Lots (Fort Henry Drive, Kingsport) before the start.

The three transmitters are hidden together at the same location, each running at a different frequency and power level. They sound like short electronic beeps or tones, cycling on and off every 30–45 seconds.

During the hunt, participants are encouraged to chat on the repeater for camaraderie and coordination. Occasional hints may be given by the hiders.

Once you find the foxes, you’ll meet the hiders on-site — usually in a park or public space — where hunters often gather to compare notes and help others.

Who Can Participate?

Anyone! You don’t need a license to participate — only to transmit. Since fox hunting is a receive-only activity, even non-licensed participants can join in by using a scanner or handheld receiver.

Typical Equipment:

• A 2-meter receive-capable radio (handheld HTs work great)
• A directional Yagi antenna or similar directional antenna
• An attenuator (optional, but useful for close-in work)

Even a basic omnidirectional antenna can work if signals are strong enough. If you’re new and don’t have equipment, contact the club — we can often pair you with someone experienced.

Build Your Own Yagi Antenna

A popular DIY option is the 2-meter tape-measure Yagi — inexpensive, portable, and easy to tune.
📘 Build Guide: KB9VBR’s 2 Meter Tape Measure Yagi Beam Antenna

After the Hunt

If you were one of the hiders, please submit the event details and results using our
📝 Post Fox Hunt Form

Why Try Fox Hunting?

• Sharpen your antenna and signal tracking skills
• Practice techniques used in emergency communications and search operations
• Learn radio wave behavior in urban and natural environments
• Enjoy a family-friendly activity with a mix of competition and teamwork

Upcoming Fox Hunts

Contact

W4TRC Fox Hunting Coordinator:
📡 Joshua Carmack (N4JHC)
✉️ n4jhc@w4trc.org

Whether you’re chasing your first signal or competing for bragging rights, fox hunting is one of the most engaging and educational ways to experience amateur radio.

Check our Events page for upcoming hunts, and bring your curiosity — and your antenna!