Who We Are

Connecting People Through Amateur Radio

The Deep East Texas Amateur Radio Club (DETARC) is a community of licensed amateur radio operators and individuals interested in learning about the hobby of amateur radio. Based in Lufkin, Texas, our members come from across Deep East Texas and share a common passion for radio communications, public service, technical learning, and community involvement.

Whether you’re a seasoned Amateur Extra operator or someone who has never picked up a radio before, you’ll find a welcoming group of people eager to help you learn, grow, and get involved.


Our Mission

The mission of DETARC is to promote and advance the Amateur Radio Service by:

  • Encouraging technical education and experimentation
  • Assisting new operators in obtaining their FCC licenses
  • Providing opportunities for fellowship and mentoring
  • Supporting emergency and public service communications
  • Promoting responsible operating practices
  • Inspiring the next generation of amateur radio operators

We believe amateur radio is more than a hobby—it’s a lifelong pursuit of learning, service, and friendship.


What We Do

DETARC offers opportunities for members of all experience levels, including:

  • Weekly on-air nets
  • Monthly club meetings
  • License exam preparation and mentoring
  • Hands-on technical workshops
  • Antenna building and radio projects
  • Field Day and operating events
  • Parks on the Air (POTA) activities
  • Winlink and digital communications
  • Repeater operation and maintenance
  • Public service communications
  • Emergency communications training

No matter your interests, there is always something new to explore.


Serving Deep East Texas

Our club proudly serves amateur radio operators throughout Deep East Texas, including Lufkin, Nacogdoches, Diboll, Huntington, Hudson, Center, Alto, and the surrounding communities.

Through our repeater network and community outreach, we help connect operators across the region while supporting emergency preparedness and public service whenever needed.


Helping New Hams Get Started

Everyone was new once.

One of our greatest strengths is helping newcomers discover the hobby. Club members are always willing to answer questions, recommend equipment, explain operating practices, and provide encouragement as you begin your amateur radio journey.

If you’re studying for your Technician license—or simply curious about amateur radio—you are welcome to attend a meeting or check into one of our weekly nets.


Public Service

Amateur radio has a long tradition of serving the public during emergencies, community events, and times when conventional communications are unavailable.

DETARC supports this tradition by encouraging members to develop communication skills, maintain reliable equipment, and participate in training exercises that strengthen our ability to serve our communities when needed.


Fellowship

Technology brings us together, but friendship keeps us coming back.

Beyond the radios, antennas, and digital modes, DETARC is a community of people who enjoy learning from one another and sharing a common interest. Many lifelong friendships have begun around a radio or at a club meeting.


Join Us

Whether you’re:

  • Curious about amateur radio
  • Studying for your first FCC license
  • Returning to the hobby after many years
  • Looking for an active amateur radio club
  • Interested in emergency communications
  • Exploring digital modes, satellites, HF, or repeaters

…we invite you to become part of the Deep East Texas Amateur Radio Club.

We’d love to meet you.


Weekly Net

Tuesday evenings at 8:00 PM

146.940 MHz (-) • PL 141.3

Everyone is welcome to listen, and licensed amateurs are encouraged to check in.


Monthly Club Meeting

Fourth Thursday of each month

6:30 PM

Fuller Springs Volunteer Fire Department

Lufkin, Texas

Visitors are always welcome.