Field Day is amateur radio’s largest annual event, drawing tens of thousands of operators across North America for a weekend of emergency preparedness exercises, camaraderie, skill-building, and yes—a healthy dose of competitive spirit. Equal parts emergency exercise, contest, social gathering, and public demonstration, Field Day represents ham radio at its finest.
As someone who has participated in Field Day annually for the past seven years—in roles ranging from casual operator to equipment manager to full Field Day chairman—I’ve experienced firsthand what makes for successful (and unsuccessful) Field Day operations. This comprehensive guide will help you prepare for and enjoy this signature amateur radio event, whether you’re a first-timer or looking to up your game.
What Is Field Day?
Sponsored by the American Radio Relay League (ARRL) and Radio Amateurs of Canada (RAC), Field Day takes place annually on the fourth full weekend in June. In 2025, that’s June 28-29.
The concept is simple but powerful: Hams set up temporary stations, typically in public locations and under simulated emergency conditions, to test their ability to operate effectively without commercial power or permanent installations. Stations make as many contacts as possible during the 24-hour operating period.
While structured as a contest with points and scoring, Field Day’s true purpose goes deeper:
- Emergency preparedness: Testing equipment and operators under field conditions
- Training opportunity: Teaching new operators and practicing important skills
- Public outreach: Demonstrating amateur radio to the community
- Club building: Strengthening local ham organization through collaborative effort
- Technical experimentation: Trying new equipment and configurations in the field
Field Day Categories and Scoring Basics
Understanding the scoring system helps you contribute effectively to your group’s effort:
Entry Classifications
Field Day groups operate under different classes based on their setup:
- Class A: Club/group stations operating in the field with emergency power
- Class B: Single or two-person stations operating in the field
- Class C: Mobile stations operating from emergency power
- Class D: Home stations operating from commercial power
- Class E: Home stations operating from emergency power
- Class F: Emergency Operations Centers
Most club operations are Class A, further categorized by the number of simultaneous transmitters (e.g., Class 3A means three transmitters in the field).
Basic Scoring Elements
Points accumulate from:
- QSO Points: Each voice contact is worth 1 point; CW and digital contacts are worth 2 points
- Power Multiplier: Using low power (150W or less) gives a 2x multiplier; QRP (5W or less) gives a 5x multiplier
- Bonus Points: Additional points for various activities like public location (+100), media publicity (+100), message handling (+100), satellite contacts (+100), and more
The complete rules are published annually on the ARRL website, but these fundamentals remain consistent.
Planning Timeline: 6 Months to Field Day Success
Effective Field Day operations require planning. Here’s a practical timeline:
6 Months Before
- Form Field Day committee
- Reserve site location
- Begin recruiting operators and support staff
- Inventory available equipment
- Identify equipment needs and sources
3 Months Before
- Confirm site logistics (access, facilities, permissions)
- Plan station layouts and antenna placements
- Assign station captains
- Create equipment lists for each station
- Begin technical training for new operators
1 Month Before
- Conduct equipment testing
- Develop detailed site layout
- Create operator schedule
- Plan food and refreshments
- Prepare public information materials
- Test emergency power sources
2 Weeks Before
- Conduct final planning meeting
- Confirm all equipment is functional
- Send press releases to local media
- Finalize operator schedule
- Prepare logging software and network
1 Week Before
- Monitor weather forecasts
- Conduct final equipment checks
- Print essential documents (rules, schedules, site maps)
- Prepare first aid kit and safety information
- Confirm all volunteers and assignments
Day Before
- Begin site setup
- Erect antennas and support structures
- Set up operating tents/shelters
- Install and test generators
- Establish network infrastructure
- Conduct safety briefing
- Test all stations
Field Day Morning
- Complete remaining setup
- Verify all stations operational
- Brief operators on logging procedures
- Welcome visitors and media
- Begin operations at 18:00 UTC (2pm EDT/1pm CDT/noon MDT/11am PDT)
Essential Field Day Equipment
Every successful Field Day requires these core elements:
Station Equipment
For each operating position:
- Transceiver: 100W HF rig with appropriate band coverage
- Power source: Generator, battery, or solar
- Computer: For logging and digital modes
- Logging software: N1MM+, N3FJP Field Day Logger, or similar
- Antenna: Appropriate for bands being worked
- Antenna supports: Masts, trees, towers
- Tuner: To match antennas as needed
- Audio accessories: Headphones, microphone, keyer
- Reference materials: Band plans, operating guides, schedules
- Tools and spare parts: For inevitable adjustments and repairs
Support Infrastructure
- Shelters: Tents, canopies, trailers, or buildings
- Tables and chairs: Comfortable operating positions
- Lighting: For nighttime operation
- Networking: For interconnected logging
- Power distribution: Safe wiring, circuit protection
- Cooling/heating: As needed for local climate
- Food and water: Sustenance for operators
- Sleeping arrangements: For overnight operators
- First aid kit: Safety first!
- Insect repellent/sunscreen: Field operations often mean exposure
Recommended Extras
These items significantly improve the Field Day experience:
- Band pass filters: Essential for multi-transmitter operations
- Rope and cord: Never enough for antenna installations
- Extra batteries: Power always runs short
- Coolers: For food and beverages
- Canopies/shade: For visitor areas
- Informational displays: For public education
- Spare cables and adapters: Murphy’s Law guarantees you’ll need them
- Contact cards/brochures: For visitors interested in ham radio
- Club banner: Identify your organization
- Weather protection: Tarps, plastic bags for sudden rain
Setting Up Effective Field Day Antennas
Antenna selection and installation are critical factors in Field Day success:
Quick-Deploy Antenna Options
Balance setup time against performance:
- Wire dipoles: Simple, effective, and quick to deploy
- 40/20/15/10m fan dipole covers most active bands
- Inverted V configuration needs only one support
- Portable verticals: Omnidirectional coverage requiring minimal space
- Commercial options: Chameleon MPAS Lite, Buddipole, Wolf River Coils
- DIY options: Copper pipe J-poles, wire verticals with radials
- Non-permanent beams: Directional gain when justified
- Portable hex beams pack small but deliver gain
- Lightweight 2-element wire beams like the Moxon
- Buddipole configured as directional array
Antenna Supports
Options for getting wires in the air:
- Telescoping fiberglass poles: Lightweight, 20-40ft options
- Jackite/Spiderbeam/MFJ poles: $80-200
- Securing techniques: Guy lines, vehicle attachment, ground stakes
- Portable masts: Aluminum or fiberglass sections
- Military surplus options often affordable
- Require proper guying for stability
- Tree supports: Free natural supports
- Line launching: Slingshots, fishing reels, air-powered launchers
- Recommended: Arborist throw lines and weights for safety/reliability
Multi-Station Considerations
When running multiple transmitters:
- Station separation: Maintain maximum practical distance
- Band selection: Plan band combinations to minimize interference
- Antenna orientation: Position to minimize interaction
- Filters: Band-pass filters on all stations
- Common mode suppression: Ferrite chokes on all cables
- Grounding: Proper RF grounding for each station
Power Sources for Field Operations
Reliable power is fundamental to Field Day success:
Generator Options
- Inverter generators: Quieter, cleaner power, more expensive
- Honda EU2200i ($1,199): The gold standard for reliability
- Alternatives: WEN 56203i ($429), Harbor Freight Predator 2000 ($529)
- Conventional generators: Louder but often more affordable
- Consider 3000-5000W for multiple stations
- Fuel consumption is higher than inverter types
- Generator management:
- Locate downwind and away from operating positions
- Ground properly for safety
- Bring extra fuel (calculate consumption in advance)
- Consider extension cords or power distribution
Battery Power
- Deep cycle batteries: Reliable but heavy
- 100Ah battery supports 100W station for several hours
- Multiple batteries can be paralleled for longer operation
- Lithium battery banks: Lighter weight, more expensive
- LiFePO4 chemistry offers best performance/safety
- Bioenno Power 20Ah ($239) or similar
- Battery management:
- Monitor voltage continuously
- Have charging solutions available
- Protect from elements
- Use proper cable gauge for current requirements
Solar Power
- Panel recommendations:
- Minimum 100W panel per operating station
- Portable options: Foldable or briefcase-style panels
- Fixed installation: Rigid panels on temporary mounts
- Charge controllers: Essential for battery protection
- MPPT controllers offer better efficiency
- Size appropriately for panel capacity
- Solar considerations:
- Position for maximum sun exposure
- Adjust angle throughout day if possible
- Have battery backup for nighttime/clouds
- Calculate power budget realistically
Staffing Your Field Day Operation
People are the most important Field Day resource:
Key Roles to Fill
- Field Day Chair: Overall coordination and planning
- Station Captains: Responsible for individual operating positions
- Technical Team: Equipment setup and troubleshooting
- Power Team: Managing generators, batteries, and distribution
- Food Coordinator: Keeping operators fed and hydrated
- Safety Officer: Monitoring for hazards and first aid
- Public Information Officer: Handling visitors and media
- Logging Coordinator: Ensuring proper contact recording
- Night Shift Coordinator: Managing overnight operations
- Breakdown Crew: Often overlooked but critical for clean closure
Operator Scheduling
Effective scheduling maximizes results and operator satisfaction:
- Shift length: 2-4 hours typically works well
- Operator pairing: Team experienced operators with newcomers
- Specialized slots: Schedule digital mode experts during night hours
- Break management: Ensure relief operators are available
- Peak time coverage: Put your best operators on during high-activity periods
- Mode rotation: Some operators prefer specific modes
Operator Training
Prepare your team before Field Day:
- Pre-event training sessions: Hands-on practice with equipment
- Contest operation basics: Efficient contact procedures
- Logging software familiarity: Practice with actual software
- Phonetics review: Proper phonetic alphabet usage
- Digital mode operation: Special focus on less familiar modes
- Troubleshooting basics: Simple fixes for common issues
Effective Operating Strategies
Maximize your contact rate with these approaches:
Voice (SSB) Operation
- Running frequency: Calling CQ consistently on one frequency
- Best for experienced operators
- More efficient than search & pounce when conditions permit
- Use standard format: “CQ Field Day, CQ Field Day, this is Whiskey One Alpha Whiskey, Whiskey One Alpha Whiskey, Three Alpha Eastern Pennsylvania, Three Alpha Eastern Pennsylvania, Field Day”
- Search & pounce: Finding and calling stations
- Good technique for less experienced operators
- More effective during slow periods
- Requires methodical band scanning
- Voice operating tips:
- Use standard phonetics
- Keep exchanges brief and standardized
- Maintain consistent audio levels
- Speak clearly at moderate pace
- Use VOX or foot switch for efficient operation
CW Operation
- Speed considerations: Adjust to band conditions
- 18-22 WPM typically optimal for Field Day
- Match the speed of the station you’re calling
- Running techniques:
- Use standard CQ FD format
- Consistent timing between calls
- Clear sending with proper spacing
- S&P techniques:
- Listen to full exchange before calling
- Call only once or twice, then wait
- Send information only at the appropriate time
Digital Operation
- Popular Field Day digital modes:
- RTTY: Traditional contest digital mode
- FT8: Effective but slower exchange rate
- FT4: Faster than FT8, good for Field Day
- PSK31: Good for difficult conditions
- Digital best practices:
- Configure software for contest mode
- Use standard exchange macros
- Verify accurate decoding before logging
- Monitor transmitted signal quality
Band Strategy
- Band selection by time of day:
- Daytime: Focus on 20/15/10 meters
- Evening transition: 40 meters becomes primary
- Overnight: 40/80 meters most productive
- Morning: Early opening on higher bands
- Avoiding interference:
- Coordinate band changes with other stations
- Use band pass filters
- Schedule complementary bands at nearby stations
Logging and IT Infrastructure
Accurate logging is essential for valid Field Day submission:
Logging Software Options
- N1MM+ Logger: Free, powerful, network capable
- N3FJP Field Day Log: Purpose-built, affordable ($8)
- WriteLog: Comprehensive contest logging ($30)
- DXKeeper: Free, integrates with DXLab suite
Networking Multiple Stations
- Hardware needed:
- Router (wired preferred for reliability)
- Ethernet cables
- Network switches for extended distances
- Laptop for each operating position
- Configuration considerations:
- Use static IP addresses
- Test network before event
- Have backup stand-alone logging option
- Designate IT support person
Backup Systems
Always plan for failure:
- Paper logs: Have templates ready for computer failures
- Backup power for network equipment
- USB drives for periodic log backups
- Spare computers if available
- Test restoration procedures before Field Day
Maximizing Bonus Points
Beyond QSO points, these activities add to your score:
High-Value Bonus Opportunities
- 100% emergency power (+100 points)
- Media publicity (+100 points)
- Public location (+100 points)
- Public information table (+100 points)
- Message to Section Manager (+100 points)
- W1AW message copying (+100 points)
- Formal message handling (10 points each, up to 100)
- Satellite QSO (+100 points)
- Natural power QSOs (+100 points)
- Site visit by elected official (+100 points)
- Site visit by agency representative (+100 points)
- GOTA (Get On The Air) station (20-100 points)
- Web submission of results (+50 points)
- Youth participation (20 points per youth, up to 100)
- Social media promotion (+100 points)
- Safety officer (+100 points)
Bonus Point Strategy
- Assign responsibilities: Designate specific people to ensure each bonus
- Advance preparation: Many bonuses require work before Field Day
- Documentation: Collect evidence of bonus-qualifying activities
- Scheduling: Plan specific times for bonus activities
GOTA Station: Engaging Newcomers
The Get On The Air station is a dedicated Field Day position for newcomers and inactive hams:
GOTA Setup Essentials
- Separate station: Must use different callsign from main Field Day operation
- Dedicated mentor: Patient, experienced operator to guide newcomers
- Simplified station: User-friendly radio with basic controls
- Good band conditions: Typically 40 or 20 meters for reliable contacts
- Proper documentation: Track operator names and contacts for bonus points
Maximizing GOTA Success
- Pre-Field Day training: Brief orientation before putting newcomers on air
- Scripted exchanges: Provide written examples of standard exchanges
- Encouraging environment: Celebrate successful contacts
- Logged achievements: Track progress toward bonus thresholds (20 QSOs per operator)
- Follow-up information: Provide licensing and club information to interested participants
Public Outreach and Media Relations
Field Day is amateur radio’s most visible annual event:
Effective Public Information Table
- Location: Visible from site entrance but away from operating noise
- Staffing: Knowledgeable, friendly ambassadors
- Materials: License exam information, club brochures, ARRL literature
- Visual elements: Operating schedule, explanation of Field Day purpose
- Interactive components: Simple demonstrations visitors can try
- Contact collection: Sign-up sheet for interested visitors
Media Strategy
- Press releases: Send 2-3 weeks before Field Day to local outlets
- Media kit: Prepare information packet with fact sheets and photo opportunities
- Spokesperson: Designate articulate representative for interviews
- Follow-up: Send results and photos after event
- Social media: Live updates throughout event
- Invite local officials: Personalized invitations to elected representatives
Safety Considerations
Field Day operations present unique safety challenges:
Site Safety Planning
- Designate Safety Officer: Responsible for monitoring conditions
- Site inspection: Identify and mark hazards
- First aid kit: Prominently located and fully stocked
- Emergency action plan: Written procedures for weather events or injuries
- Medical information: Know operators with medical training
- Local emergency contacts: Hospital locations, police/fire non-emergency numbers
- Weather monitoring: Assign person to track changing conditions
- Vehicle access plan: Ensure emergency vehicles can access all areas
- Documentation: Complete ARRL safety officer checklist
Common Field Day Hazards
- Tower/antenna raising: Most dangerous activity
- Require adequate personnel
- Establish clear communication procedures
- Use proper lifting techniques
- Check for overhead power lines
- Secure guy wires and mark them for visibility
- Electrical safety:
- Proper grounding for generators and equipment
- GFCI protection for all outlets
- Cable protection from foot traffic and water
- Fire extinguishers near generators and electronics
- Environmental concerns:
- Sun protection (shade, sunscreen)
- Hydration stations
- Insect protection
- Weather-appropriate clothing
- Nighttime illumination of hazards
- Physical strain:
- Adequate rest periods
- Proper lifting techniques
- Team lifting for heavy items
- Ergonomic operating positions
Feeding Your Field Day Team
Never underestimate the importance of food and drink:
Meal Planning
- Calories needed: Operators require more food than typical sedentary activities
- Scheduling: Regular meal times maintain morale
- Dietary restrictions: Accommodate team members’ needs
- Food safety: Proper refrigeration and handling critical in field conditions
Popular Field Day Food Options
- Grilling on site: Burgers, hot dogs, chicken (assign dedicated cook)
- Slow cooker meals: Prepared ahead, kept warm throughout day
- Potluck style: Operators contribute dishes
- Catering: More expensive but reduces volunteer workload
- Restaurant delivery: Good backup option
Hydration Considerations
- Water supply: Minimum 1 gallon per person per day
- Coffee/tea station: Caffeine for night operators
- Sports drinks: Electrolyte replacement during hot weather
- Ice supply: Critical for food safety and cold drinks
Night Operations: Strategies for After Dark
The overnight hours offer unique opportunities and challenges:
Band Conditions After Dark
- Lower bands dominate: 40m and 80m most productive
- Reduced competition: Fewer stations active
- DX opportunities: Potential for long-distance contacts
- Challenging conditions: Atmospheric noise increases
Night Shift Planning
- Dedicated team: Pre-scheduled operators specifically for night hours
- Rotation system: Shorter shifts (2 hours) to combat fatigue
- Buddy system: Minimum two operators awake at all times
- Logging verification: Extra attention to accuracy when tired
Night Operation Essentials
- Adequate lighting: Station illumination without affecting night vision
- Bug protection: More critical at night near lights
- Caffeine management: Available but not to excess
- Warm clothing: Even summer nights can get chilly
- Security considerations: Increased awareness after dark
Specialized Night Activities
- Digital modes: Often more effective when voice contacts slow
- Scheduled breaks: 10 minutes every hour to stay alert
- Band monitoring: Check for unusual openings
- Meteor scatter opportunities: Specialized VHF contacts
- Gray line propagation: Dawn brings unique DX possibilities
Teardown and Post-Event Activities
A successful Field Day includes efficient closure:
Efficient Teardown Process
- Advance planning: Assign specific teardown responsibilities
- Documentation: Note any damaged equipment
- Order of operations: Power down, disconnect electronics, lower antennas
- Safety first: No rushing or cutting corners
- Team approach: Many hands make light work
Site Restoration
- Leave no trace philosophy
- Photograph site before departure as documentation
- Remove all trash including tiny items like wire scraps
- Restore any ground disturbances
- Final walkthrough by Field Day chair
Post-Event Tasks
- Equipment inventory: Note condition and location of all items
- Log submission: Compile electronic logs and submit to ARRL
- Thank you communications: Acknowledge all participants and supporters
- Expense reconciliation: Promptly handle any reimbursements
- Media follow-up: Send results and human interest stories
After-Action Review
- Formal debrief meeting: Schedule within two weeks
- Document successes and challenges
- Compare results to previous years
- Gather participant feedback
- Begin planning for next year
Field Day by the Numbers: What to Expect
To help with planning, here are typical metrics from successful operations:
For a Medium-Sized 3A Operation (Three HF Stations)
- Participants: 15-25 operators
- Contacts: 1,000-2,000 QSOs
- Power needs: 2-3kW generator capacity
- Food: 40-60 meals plus snacks
- Setup time: 4-6 hours with 8-10 people
- Teardown time: 2-3 hours with similar crew
- Space needed: Minimum 100 × 100 feet
- Budget: $300-600 excluding equipment
- Band distribution: Typically 40% on 20m, 30% on 40m, 15% on 15m, 10% on 80m, 5% other
Equipment Quantities
- Coaxial cable: 500-1,000 feet total
- Power cords: 300-500 feet total
- Antenna wire: 500+ feet
- Masts/supports: 3-6 tall supports
- Tables: 10-15 (6-foot tables)
- Chairs: 15-20
- Computers: One per station plus spares
- Generators: 2-3 for redundancy
- Fuel: 10-15 gallons for 24 hours
- Tents/shelters: 800-1,200 square feet of covered space
Field Day Solo or Small Group Options
Not everyone participates with a large club. Here are strategies for smaller operations:
Class B (1-2 Person Portable) Approach
- Equipment focus: Lightweight, quick-deploy gear
- Antenna selection: Single multi-band option (EFHW, vertical)
- Power source: Battery with solar charging
- Operating strategy: Emphasis on efficient operating, not marathon sessions
- Location options: Parks, scenic viewpoints, summits
- Bonus points: Still available for many categories
- Logging: Simplified computer or even paper logging
Home-Based Participation (Class D or E)
- Class D: Home station on commercial power
- Class E: Home station on emergency power
- Focus areas:
- Test emergency power systems
- Operate modes/bands outside your comfort zone
- Practice message handling
- Make Field Day contacts to support other stations
- Test backup antennas and equipment
Joining Other Groups
- Visit other club operations: Many welcome guest operators
- Check club websites: Find local Field Day sites
- Bring a useful skill: Digital mode expertise, CW operation, technical support
- Observe different approaches: Learn from other groups’ organization
Field Day from Different Perspectives
Field Day means different things to different participants:
The Contester’s View
For competitive operators:
- Operating efficiency: Maximum QSO rates
- Band strategy: Optimal band selection for conditions
- Minimal downtime: Maximize time spent making contacts
- Propagation knowledge: Leveraging openings for multipliers
- Sharp focus: Competitive mindset throughout event
The Emergency Preparer’s View
For those focused on readiness:
- Equipment testing: Validating performance under field conditions
- Power management: Testing duration of emergency power
- Improvisation practice: Solving unexpected problems
- Message handling: Formal traffic procedures
- Interoperability: Working with varied equipment and operators
The Social Participant’s View
For those enjoying the community aspect:
- Club camaraderie: Strengthening relationships
- Knowledge sharing: Learning from experienced members
- Mentoring opportunities: Helping newcomers
- Shared meals: Breaking bread together
- Story creation: Building memories and traditions
The New Ham’s View
For first-time participants:
- Skills development: Hands-on experience in supportive environment
- Operating practice: Making contacts with guidance
- Technical exposure: Seeing diverse equipment in use
- Community connection: Meeting the wider ham community
- Tradition participation: Joining a storied amateur radio tradition
Capturing and Sharing the Field Day Experience
Document your operation for posterity and promotion:
Photography and Video
- Assign media person: Dedicated photographer/videographer
- Key moments to capture:
- Antenna raising
- First contact
- Team photos
- Public interactions
- Overnight operations
- Weather challenges
- Equipment details: Document innovative setups
- Time-lapse options: Setup to teardown progression
Social Media Strategy
- Platform selection: Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube
- Live updates: Hourly progress reports
- Hashtags: #ARRLFD #HamRadio #(YourClub)
- Engagement: Respond to comments and questions
- Cross-posting: Share between platforms
Post-Event Documentation
- Club newsletter: Detailed write-up with statistics
- Website gallery: Photos and videos
- Testimonials: Participant and visitor experiences
- Technical articles: Antenna performance, equipment reviews
- Lessons learned: Document for future planning
Conclusion: The Enduring Appeal of Field Day
After nearly 90 years, Field Day remains amateur radio’s defining event because it encapsulates everything that makes this hobby special: technical skill, emergency preparedness, camaraderie, public service, education, and the magic of radio communication.
Whether you participate with a large club erecting multiple towers and running a dozen stations, join a small group at a local park, or operate solo from your backyard on emergency power, Field Day offers something for every amateur radio enthusiast.
The true measure of Field Day success isn’t just the score—it’s the knowledge gained, the skills sharpened, the friendships strengthened, and the stories that will be told until next year’s event. So check your calendar, mark the fourth full weekend in June, and start your Field Day planning. The airwaves await!
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About the author: Alfred has been an active ham radio operator since 2018 and has participated in Field Day operations ranging from single-operator portable to large club deployments. He particularly enjoys introducing new operators to the unique challenges and rewards of field operations and emergency communications.
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