How To Choose The Right Size Boat Anchor

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Choosing the right size boat anchor can depend on several things that we will cover in this section.

The conditions you will be in, and the manner in which you use your boat all determine how you should choose the right size boat anchor.

Generally if you have a boat 22′ or less, you have several options, since you aren’t likely to be out in 25-30 mph winds in that size boat – so our 7 lb, 10 lb, or 14 lb could be chosen for boats 22’ or less. But it is recommended that you carry the largest anchor you can feasibly fit on your boat.

-(1) Is this an offshore boat? Or for lakes, rivers, inland waters, etc?
-(2) Will you anchor overnight, or just day trips – then back to shore?
-(3) If the weather takes a turn for the worse, will you be close enough to head back to shore? Or will you ride out the storm on anchor?
-(4) Are you anchoring in very deep water? If so, then perhaps using an anchor one size up would be best, and allow you to set the anchor even faster, and with less line.

When choosing the right size boat anchor, it is recommended to select it based on the 30 mph wind rating if it will be used as your primary front anchor.

The chart below can be used as a starting point based on your boat size. You can choose from several different models depending on the conditions you’ll be in, and the storage space you have.

This anchor does require chain – also available for purchase with all our products.

– 7 lb anchor – our most compact model, generally for moderate conditions, and not heavy current – i.e. day trips on small bodies of water (boats up to 22′) This anchor can also be used as a stern anchor for boats up to approximately 27 feet to prevent rear swing. (Never drop any anchor from the stern as the primary anchor facing into the wind or you risk taking on water)

– 10 lb anchor – for boats up to 19′ in winds up to 30 mph. It’s a step up in size & weight, with a longer handle for penetrating hard bottoms. Generally boats in this size range have the smallest storage compartments in the bow, so storing it in a different compartment might be necessary. More info here on anchor storage.

– 14 lb anchor – for boats 20-27 ft in winds up to 30 mph. Typically boats in this size range have larger compartments, however the anchor lockers can still be narrow. You can also choose the folding rollbar model.

– 18 lb anchor – for boats 28-34 ft in winds up to 30 mph. Boats in this size usually have large anchor lockers, or the anchors are mounted on the bow with an anchor windlass, anchor roller, electric anchor winch, etc.

– 22 lb anchor – for boats 35-42 ft in winds up to 30 mph. These boats also usually always have the anchors mounted on the bow with an anchor windlass, anchor roller, or manual roller, etc.

If you have any questions about choosing the right size boat anchor, feel free to contact us via e-mail.

Thanks for sharing! It can help me choose the right size boat anchor.

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I'm a writer who focuses on the outdoors and travel. I share my time between Alaska and Colorado, where, when I'm not writing, I enjoy camping, kayaking, hiking, fishing, and skiing (often with dogs in tow). My byline may also be seen in publications such as The New York Times, National Geographic, The Washington Post, The Guardian, Condé Nast Traveler, Travel + Leisure, and others.

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