[quote author=solotripper link=1251683702/0#6 date=1253132564] How about renting a SAT phone?
You could have someone call you with local weather info, or maybe you could call out? Not the cheapest, but you know they work, and IF you got hurt or lost your canoe ( Hopefully phone is ALWAYS with you), then your covered.
Here's a link, I'm sure others might know of better deals?
One model rents for less than $40 a week, not bad for peace of mind ;)
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I looked at SAT phones.  I talked to two guys from Ohio who were comming out, when I was going in to the BWCA the last time I was up there. Renting is expensive.  Buying really isn't that bad.  $100 for the phone.  $100 a year for the contract. $3-4 a minute for time.  But I decided to go with the HAM for other reasons.