Contesting

 Amateur radio contesting is a competitive aspect of ham radio where operators aim to make as many contacts as possible within a set period of time, following specific rules defined by each contest. During a contest, stations exchange a brief, standardized set of information—such as signal reports, serial numbers, or locations—and points are awarded based on factors like distance, band, or operating mode. Contesting tests an operator’s technical skills, operating efficiency, and station setup, while also encouraging experimentation with antennas, propagation, and operating strategies. Whether participating casually for a few contacts or seriously to chase high scores, amateur radio contesting is a fast-paced and exciting way for hams to improve their skills and connect with operators around the world. 

 Florida State Parks on the Air (FSPOTA) is an annual amateur radio event that combines outdoor adventure with radio communication, bringing operators into Florida’s beautiful state parks to make contacts across the state, country, and beyond. Inspired by the global Parks on the Air (POTA) program, FSPOTA focuses specifically on showcasing Florida’s diverse park system while promoting portable radio operation.

FSPOTA is a contest-style operating event where licensed amateur radio operators set up temporary stations in designated Florida state parks and attempt to make as many contacts (QSOs) as possible during the event period. Stations operating from parks are known as activators, while those contacting them from home or elsewhere are called hunters. 

The event typically runs over multiple days—in 2026, it is scheduled for April 17–20—with operating hours during the daytime and early evening. 

FSPOTA is more than just a contest—it’s built around several key goals:

• Promote amateur radio to the public 
• Highlight Florida’s state parks and natural beauty 
• Encourage outdoor portable operation skills 
• Foster camaraderie among radio operators 
• Support youth involvement in amateur radio  

Participants operate from one of Florida’s many eligible parks, trails, or historic sites—over 170 locations across the state. 

Operators earn points based on:

• Number of contacts (QSOs) made 
• Number of different parks activated 
• Bands and modes used (SSB, CW, digital) 
• Multipliers tied to unique park locations 

A valid activation typically requires at least 10 contacts from a park within the event timeframe. 

FSPOTA encourages a wide range of participation:

• Individual operators – working solo from a park 
• Club stations – teams operating together 
• Hunters – making contacts from home or mobile 
• Youth participants – special encouragement for under 18 

FSPOTA blends emergency preparedness, technical skill, and outdoor recreation. Portable operations simulate real-world conditions where operators rely on battery power, temporary antennas, and adaptable setups—skills that are critical during disasters when normal infrastructure may be unavailable. 

At the same time, it introduces the public to amateur radio in a relaxed, approachable environment—often sparking curiosity and new interest in the hobby.

First held in 2017 as a one-day event, FSPOTA has grown significantly in both participation and scope. Today, it is organized by the Tamiami Amateur Radio Club and continues to expand, attracting operators from across the Southeast and beyond.

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