[VHFcontesting] Another rookie question

[k4gun at comcast.net]

Before I even start, I have to say that I am really happy to have found this resource.  You guys are a treasure trove of good information and I appreciate the responses I have seen here.  I'm a new guy and this list has really taught me more than I expected.  I've spent a good amount of time browsing the archives here.

My next query has to do with running a frequency.  In reading roving plans from previous contests, I see that most rovers pick a frequency before the contest and list that as the place to find them.  Obviously a rover can't spend his entire time running and will do a mix of search and pounce as well, but I see the value in people knowing a rough idea as to where on the band to find you.  My question is, how does one decide this ahead of time?  Is it just a random stab at a point on the dial?  Is there a method to it?  Is there an established protocol for this of which I need to be aware?

As long as I'm on this topic, is it common practice for a rover to run on a frequency immediately upon setting up and then switching to search and pounce once he's worked everybody who can hear him?  That would seem to make sense to me, but I'd like to hear a general plan on how to do this.  Along with that, I realize that its probably best to actually be in position at the time you have listed on your plans.  I would assume one would start on 2 meters and work up or down from there as conditions warrant.  

Again, thanks in advance for any suggestions on this.

Steve
K4GUN