How to Size an Anchor
Your boat anchor must be properly sized for your vessel and the water bottom where you typically anchor. If your anchor is too light for your boat, it will drag. Your anchor should be matched to the water bottom where you anchor. Select an anchor that is good for rocky bottoms, sand or mud. Your anchor should be matched to the weight and length of your boat. And you'll need the proper length of anchor line. In coastal areas, boat safety experts like the US Power Squadron suggest five to seven feet of anchor line for every foot of water depth where you anchor.
Instructions
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Access the user manual that came with your boat and find out how much your boat weighs. If you cannot find the user manual, go online. Find the manufacturer's website to find out what your boat weighs.
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Locate an anchor weight guide. These guides can be found in boating enthusiast publications or online..
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Use the guide to determine how heavy your anchor must be to anchor your boat.
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Types of anchors to consider include:
--Danforth/fluke anchor which performs well in sand and mud.
--CQR/Plow anchor which performs OK in many water bottoms and does best over 25 pounds. You will need a larger plow anchor for a large vessel.
--Bruce/Claw anchor sets well in most conditions and is easy to retrieve.
--Mushroom/grapnel anchor is designed for small craft and is difficult to retrieve.
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References
Resources
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