kayak anchor trip link

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Anchor Trip Link for Kayaks and Dinghies

Would recommend

Good quality

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Kayak Anchor

Jackson kayak kayaks, ocean kayak kayaks, hobie kayaks, ratings and reviews, most relevant reviews, anchor trip link.

Great little bit of kit going to save a few cable ties now. along with possible anchors. Did worry about the hook on the link getting lost. But don't see that happening now I've had it on my hands. The hook is just to tight to slide easily off and the link breaks before the hook releases. Would recommended a stainless steel carabiner for a quicker reset. 10/10 many thanks👍

Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: New

Great size and light.

A must to use as a break away for 20ft. or under boat anchors. This device will save your anchor,chain buoy and rope etc.if used properly with large slip ring.Brilliant.

This'll save a lot of lost anchors!

It just works. It's not complicated, or revolutionary, but it just works again and again and again! It took a bit of playing (and definitely some pliers are convenient to have around), but once it's set, it's really simple to use. I use mine off the kayak, so for small, 1.5kg anchors. You can't generate as much pull from a kayak to pull a stuck anchor free, so this little gadget is a life saver.

lifesaver device

well thought out and good quality product that will save you heaps of grief when out fishing - especially on a kayak when the last thing you want is an anchor that won't budge particularly if a change comes and the waves are washing over you

This product solves an age old problem of getting your anchor stuck. It's adjustable and very simple to use, ticks all the boxes for me Cheers and tight lines

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Kayak Fishing Blog

How to anchor a fishing kayak.

The Anchor Trolley System

Types of Anchors For Kayaks

• 0.7kg Folding Grapnel Anchor: suitable for shallow waters up to 20ft, low flow and rough ground
• 1.5kg  Folding Grapnel Anchor: suitable for depths up to around 100ft, moderate flows and most ground types if used with chain - this is the most common size used on a kayak.
• 2.5kg  Folding Grapnel Anchor: suitable for deeper water >100ft, faster tides and most ground types if used with chain.

• 1kg  Bruce Anchor:  suitable for depths up to around 100ft, low to moderate tidal flows and sandy / muddy / gravelly grounds.
• 2kg  Bruce Anchor:  suitable for depths up to and over 100ft, moderate to fast tidal flows and sandy / muddy / gravelly grounds.

Anchor Chain For Kayaks

Anti-Snag Anchor Set Ups

MEthods of Anchoring A Kayak

Quick release kayak anchoring.

Simple & Direct Kayak Anchoring

Kayak Anchor Deployment 

• Prepare your anchoring kit - have your anchor trolley ring / karabiner beside you and have your anchor and anchor reel on your lap ready for use. Make sure your anchor line is securely clipped or tied onto your anchor / chain.
• Pass the floating rope through the the anchor trolley ring / karabiner  
• Shuttle the anchor trolley to the stern and cleat this off  - zig zag the anchor trolley line through the zig zag cleat to lock this in place
• Cleat off the floating rope  - cleat this in the opposite zig-zag pattern to the anchor trolley cord so that it engages with the unused teeth on the cleat. Ensure the tag end comes off the bow side of the cleat and the end leading to the buoy/reel comes off the stern side of the cleat. Leave a meter or so of tag end so that you can easily locate it if needing to release from the anchor.
• Paddle / Pedal your kayak up-tide or up-wind of your desired anchor position - the stronger the tide and/or wind and the deeper the water the further past you will need to go
• Place the anchor / chain into the water  - make sure nothing is tangled and the anchor line can run freely from the anchor reel
• Lower the anchor to the bottom 
• Let out extra anchor line - the faster the tide, the stronger the wind and the deeper the water the more line you will need to let out - see the section below for a discussion on this. As soon as you feel the anchor is holding, let out a bit extra to allow for any rise in tide or jolting movement from choppy waves.
• Ensure the anchor reel ratchet prevents more line releasing
• Release the buoy and anchor reel into the water ​ - As the anchor trolley is already set at the stern and cleated off, with the floating rope also cleated off you can just release the buoy and anchor straight into the water as soon as you are happy the anchor is holding.
• You are now anchored - the kayak will float down-tide and hold against the anchor. The buoy will be sat off the back of the kayak with the reel suspended below it. You will be pointing down-tide, or if the wind is stronger than the tide (if there is any) then you will point down-wind. 

• Prepare your anchoring kit  - have your anchor trolley ring / karabiner beside you and have your anchor and anchor reel on your lap ready for use. 
• Pass the anchor line through the anchor trolley ring / karabiner
• Clip your anchor line to your anchor / chain
• Paddle / Pedal your kayak up-tide or up-wind of your desired anchor position  - the stronger the tide and/or wind and the deeper the water the further past you will need to go
• Place the anchor / chain into the water   - make sure nothing is tangled and the anchor line can run freely from the anchor reel
• Lower the anchor to the bottom - simultaneously do the next step
• Shuttle the anchor trolley to the stern and cleat this off  - this can be done quickly whilst the anchor is falling to the bottom - zig zag the anchor trolley line through the zig zag cleat to lock this in place
• Let out extra anchor line  - the faster the tide, the stronger the wind and the deeper the water the more line you will need to let out - discussed below in next section. As soon as you feel the anchor is holding, let out a bit extra to allow for any rise in tide or jolting movement from choppy waves.
• ​Cleat off the anchor line -  cleat this in the opposite zig-zag pattern to the anchor trolley cord so that it engages with the unused teeth on the cleat.
• You are now anchored  - the kayak will float down-tide and hold against the anchor. The buoy will be sat off the back of the kayak with the reel suspended below it. You can easily let out more anchor line from the cleat if you need to move down-tide towards your desired mark.

How much Anchor line should you let out?

Hauling a Kayak ANchor

Safe kayak anchoring tips.

• Practice, Practice, Practice! Practice is the key and if you are new to anchoring a kayak then opt for a Quick-Release Anchoring system and choose a calm day to test it out, if possible with a friend on the water with you. Find some shallow water to just get used to the routine of deploying the anchor, ensuring the anchor is holding and then hauling the anchor. The more practice the better. Make sure you are confident in the anchoring process before you venture out into deeper water.
• Avoid being anchored with the anchor trolley at mid-ship!  You are at most danger of capsizing when the kayak is side-on at anchor - in calm conditions the chance is slim but if it is windy, choppy, swelly, or there is a tidal flow or current then you really do risk turning the kayak over. Double-check the anchor trolley is set at the stern or bow when the kayak is tightening up against the anchor. Ensure the anchor trolley is at the bow or stern when hauling the anchor line. If you even need to switch the anchor trolley from stern-to-bow or vice-versa whilst anchored then ensure you let out plenty of slack anchor line.​
• ALWAYS carry a safety knife or line cutter on your buoyancy aid. This is essential to ensure you have a way of cutting your anchor line if you ever got into trouble whilst anchoring you kayak. 

• Stay stable when freeing a snagged anchor.  This is another time when the risk of capsize is increased. You're pulling hard against a snagged anchor and everything is under tension. Choppy waves or swell can easily de-stabilise the kayak and topple you over. To add stability in this scenario, put your legs out either side of the kayak - they act like outriggers and this makes the kayak more stable. Be sure to anticipate a weak-link suddenly breaking so that you don't fall out of the kayak as the tension is quickly released!
• Know when to cut your losses. Sometimes your anchor gets snagged and despite using a anti-snag weak-link set up you cannot get the anchor to free it's hold. Sometimes it is not meant to be and you will need to cut your losses. Don't risk putting yourself in a dangerous situation trying to free a snagged anchor - just the cord! You may lose your anchor, chain and some anchor line but that is much less of a problem than capsizing an anchored kayak. 

Enjoy Kayak Fishing at Anchor

Where to buy kayak anchoring equipment.

Great info on anchoring Ive been yak fishn for awhile now ... 30 + yrs but first thing I did was to to practise getting back on in deep water ...... put a leash on everything .... food n drink a hat and comunication. Happy fishn😊

Ive been kayak fishing for over 10 years now, mostly in strong Thames tides. I agree with everything you have written. I have a stainless cleat up the front end that I hook the warp over to allow me to keep the yak in line when needing maximum heave to haul. I'd say it's saved me a few anchors over the years as I can really pull hard to free a stuck anchor.

Perfect explaining and very usefull information ,congrats

Hi Liam. REALY LIKE YOUR ANCHORING SETUP. IN THE PROCESS OF BUYING ALL MY BITS AND PTECES. GOING TO SETUP THE QUICK RELEASE. THANKS FOR YOUR SAFETY TIPS THEY ARE FIRST CLASS. WILL BECOME A REGULAR FOLLOWER. CHEERS JOHN

This was a fantastic and informative read. A must for anyone starting out.

Such a great read. I'm just getting into this and it was exactly the information I needed. Laid out clear and very concise. Thanks!

Hi Liam I have assembled my anchor trolley as per your videos and I am very happy with the system. Just one question: I have my bungee cord located at the bow as shown in your vid., however if I want to anchor off the bow ( instead of the stern) do I need to move the bungee to the stern. I was thinking that there may be too much ‘play’ / looseness in the system if I anchor at the same end as the bungee cord. Cheers Bob

Very well put together info. thank you. Danny from Athens, GA

Liam Faisey

My Tackle Shop

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The Essential Kayak Anchor Guide Be Still

Getting Started With Kayak Anchors

1.extreme max boattector kit.

• Length : 25 ft rope
• Weight: 3.5 lbs
• Folding : Yes

The anchor itself is excellent. It comes in at a weight of 3.5lbs, and is a folding grapnel anchor that has four shanks. Even though it’s quite versatile, it’s best if used in rocky, coral or heavily weeded bottoms. You can, however, use it in other environments, and it does work rather nice.

The rope is pretty neat, too. At 25’, it’s quite lengthy so you can use it even in deeper water. It’s made of a hollow braid polyethylene, so it’s going to last a good while and even if it rubs against rocks or something else, it won’t tear easily unlike some other ropes that you will come across. It also comes with a steel snap hook as well, which works pretty well.

The buoy is made of marine-grade foam, which is pretty good in terms of quality. Last but not least, there’s the nylon storage bag that carries everything when you don’t need it, and rounds out the entire package. It’s honestly a great pick if you want a do-it-all kit.

2. BEST Marine Kayak Anchor

• Length : 40 ft rope

To begin with, this is a kit that comes with everything. You have an anchor, a buoy and a storage bag that carries everything. The steel anchor has four shanks and can be folded when not in use, so it makes for a pretty compact solution. It weighs 3.5lbs, so it will easily hold down your kayak without much problems. It’s primarily made to work in softer bottoms, but it does work in just about any situation if you’re in a pinch.

The rope is extra long at 40 feet, which means that this is an excellent anchor if you’re in need of one for deeper waters or you just want a longer rope. It’s a marine-grade rope, so it won’t fray or tear apart easily, which is nice in terms of durability. The buoy is pretty nice too, and BEST have made sure to make it durable, too. At the end of the rope, you’ll find a steel hook that does a great job.

Last but not least, the entire thing can be packed in the carrying storage bag. It seems like a quality option, and it’s a neat way to carry everything around. 

3. AIRHEAD SUP Anchor Kit

• Length : 15 ft rope
• Weight: 1.5 lbs

To begin with, this is a 1.5lbs anchor with four shanks. There is a sliding cap that keeps them in place when they’re folded, so you can store them away without the entire anchor taking up a lot of space. Overall, the anchor does a pretty good job. One thing to note is that you’ll want to use it in situations where you have a softer bottom, because with this weight, it might not be ideal if you can’t get it stuck well. There’s also the issue of using a heavier or larger kayak, as this anchor kit isn’t made for such situations. Oh, and we do need to mention that it comes in a bright red color, so you can easily see it at the bottom when you’re trying to set it up.

The rope comes in at 15 feet, which isn’t too long but it does the job in shallower waters and when you don’t need to take your kayak too far from the anchor point. The rope itself is decently durable, but nothing to write home about. You do have a spring loaded hook at the end, so you can easily attach it to your kayak. It’s a decent option for lightweight kayaks and SUP boards.

Types Of Anchors

Where To Position The Anchor? Bow, Stern Or Side?

An anchor trolley.

A Stakeout Pole

Drift Chutes Are A Thing Too

A Sample Setup

Anchoring The Kayak

Summing Things Up

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2 thoughts on “The Essential Kayak Anchor Guide Be Still”

Im not good with installing an anchor trolly.i not confident wth mMing holes in kayak!

I purchased Best marine kayak anchor for my paddle board when I would like to be stationary for longer period of time. For example when my friends and I watched Jaws on our boards in the bay. Per a larger anchor manufacturers YouTube video, I've added about 4 feet of chain to the line. I also recommend buying a mason twine with a winder. Replace the twine with a 4" long 1" pvc pipe and wind the anchor rope onto it.

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Water Sports Living

Kayak anchor: a complete guide for every kayaker.

If you’re diving into the world of kayaking or have been paddling for a while, you might have questioned the need for a kayak anchor. Isn’t the whole idea of kayaking to float and move freely? Well, as much as I adore that sensation of drifting on the water’s surface, there are times when anchoring down becomes invaluable. Allow me to take you through this anchor-filled journey!

The Basics of Kayak Anchoring

At its core, a kayak anchor is a weight used to keep your boat stationary in water. Unlike the massive anchors you see on ships and larger boats, these are scaled down to be suitable for kayaks. But don’t let their size fool you! Despite being compact, they’re designed to grip the seafloor or riverbed efficiently, ensuring your kayak stays where you want it. It is your kayak’s very own parking brake. Let’s learn more about them.

What is a Kayak Anchor?

A kayak anchor is a weight specially designed to keep your lightweight watercraft stationary in aquatic environments. These aren’t just random weights; they are engineered for maximum grip on various types of underwater surfaces like sand, mud, rocks, and even aquatic plants. The design typically includes flukes or prongs that dig into the bottom surface, effectively fixing your kayak in place. 

Most kayak anchors weigh between 1.5 to 4 pounds. They come in various shapes and materials, and some are even foldable for easy storage. They usually include a length of rope, known as the anchor line, often equipped with a float and clips for easy retrieval.

Here’s a deeper dive into its components:

• Anchor Body: This is the weighty part that sinks and grabs onto the underwater surface. Materials commonly used for the anchor body include galvanized steel, aluminum, and sometimes even plastic for temporary anchoring.
• Flukes/Prongs: These are the arms that extend from the anchor body. Their purpose is to dig into the sea or riverbed, providing the grip that keeps you stationary. The number of flukes can vary, but three or four is standard.
• Anchor Line: This is the rope that connects your kayak to the anchor. It’s usually made from marine-grade material to resist decay and wear. The length of the anchor line will depend on the depth of the water you’re in. A good rule of thumb is to have a line about three times longer than the water is deep.
• Buoy/Buoy Ball: Some kayak anchors come with a buoy or buoy ball attached to the anchor line. This makes it easier to locate and retrieve your anchor.
• Carabiner or Anchor Trolley : These are attachment mechanisms that make it simple to affix the anchor line to your kayak. Some advanced setups allow you to change the point of attachment, offering better control over your kayak’s orientation while anchored.

Why Use an Anchor While Kayaking?

You might wonder why you’d want to stay in one place when the beauty of kayaking is all about exploring. Trust me, a kayak anchor isn’t just a piece of heavy metal; it’s a gateway to numerous opportunities on the water. Here are some compelling benefits:

• Precision Fishing: Anchoring your kayak provides the stability needed to aim and cast accurately, increasing your chances of a rewarding catch.
• Hands-Free Operation: Want to take photos, jot down notes, or simply enjoy your coffee? An anchor keeps you steady, freeing up both hands for other activities.
• Safety: In rough conditions, an anchor can stabilize your kayak, providing a greater level of safety.
• Consistent Scenic Views: Found a spot with a jaw-dropping sunset view? Anchor down to enjoy it for as long as you want without drifting away.
• Rest and Relaxation: Whether you need to stretch, hydrate, or even take a quick nap, anchoring provides the pause you need during long journeys.
• Strategic Paddling: Anchoring can help you conserve energy by preventing constant repositioning in strong winds or currents.
• Better Bird Watching and Wildlife Observation: When you’re stationary, you’re less likely to scare away wildlife, making for an optimal observation experience.
• Convenience: Need to answer a phone call, grab something from your kayak’s storage, or switch gear? It’s easier to do this when anchored.
• Enhanced Snorkeling or Diving: If you love diving off your kayak, an anchor will keep your vessel from drifting away while you explore underwater.
• Socializing: Kayaking with friends? Anchoring makes it easy to gather everyone in one spot for group activities or conversations.

So, while the idea of anchoring might initially seem counter to the adventurous spirit of kayaking, it’s all about giving you more freedom to do what you love on the water. Anchoring your kayak enriches your aquatic adventures, making each trip more versatile, comfortable, and safe.

Types of Kayak Anchors

Anchoring isn’t a one-size-fits-all deal. Different kayak anchors serve different purposes, and the best choice depends on factors like water conditions, kayak type, and what you plan to do while anchored. Let’s take a look at the popular types of kayak anchors along with their pros and cons.

Grapnel Anchors

The All-Rounder: Grapnel anchors are the most commonly used among kayakers due to their versatility.

Description: Grapnel anchors resemble a four-armed grappling hook that can fold inward for easy storage.

• Versatility: Effective in various bottom conditions such as mud, sand, gravel, and rocks.
• Compact: Most models are foldable, saving storage space.
• Weight: Generally heavier than other types.
• Snags: Tends to get stuck, making it difficult to retrieve in some conditions.

Mushroom Anchors

The Lightweight Option: Mushroom anchors are named for their shape and are generally used in calm, shallow waters.

Description: This anchor type has a bell-shaped design, similar to an upside-down mushroom cap, often used for small boats and kayaks.

• Lightweight: Ideal for short trips and shallow waters.
• Easy Storage: The simple shape makes it easy to stow.
• Limited Grip: Less effective in strong currents and winds.
• Specific Use: Only good for soft bottoms like mud or silt.

Stake-Out Poles

The Shallow Water Specialist: Stake-out poles are more like a rod than a traditional anchor and are perfect for shallow water scenarios.

Description: These are long, slender rods made of durable materials like fiberglass or aluminum, designed to be manually pushed into soft bottoms.

• Quick Setup: Easy to plant into the ground.
• Ideal for Shallow Waters: Great for depths of a few feet or less.
• Limited Depth: Ineffective in deep water.
• Manual Effort: Requires physical effort to set and unset.

Bruce/Claw Anchors

The Reliable Gripper: Bruce or Claw anchors are known for their strong grip, making them great for a variety of bottoms.

Description: Bruce or Claw anchors have three evenly spaced claws and a shank, resembling a clawed hand reaching out.

• Strong Grip: Excellent holding power in most bottom types.
• Stable: Less likely to roll on the seafloor.
• Heavy: Generally weighty and bulky.
• Complicated: More complex to set up than other anchor types.

Danforth Anchors

The Sandy Bottom Expert: Danforth anchors excel in sandy and muddy bottoms due to their high holding power.

Description: Danforth anchors feature long, flat flukes set at a right angle to the shank.

• High Holding Power: Great for sandy and muddy bottoms.
• Lightweight: Typically lighter than other types with the same holding power.
• Limited Use: Not suitable for rocky or grassy bottoms.
• Storage: Takes up more space due to its flat design.

Plow Anchors

The Versatile Heavy-Duty: Plow anchors are shaped like a plowshare and offer a good grip in multiple bottom types.

Description: Shaped like a farmer’s plow, this anchor has a single, heavy fluke that digs into the sea floor.

• Versatile: Good for various bottom types including sand, mud, and grass.
• Easy to Retrieve: Generally easier to pull up than grapnel anchors.
• Weight: Quite heavy.
• Size: Not as compact as other options.

River Anchors

The Current Master: River anchors are designed specifically for river currents and are ideal for kayakers who prefer fast-flowing waters.

Description:  A river anchor typically features multiple flukes and a central shank, designed to catch onto rocks, roots, or other underwater structures.

• Strong Grip: Designed to hold well in fast currents.
• Adaptable: Can grip various types of river bottoms.

Screw Anchors

The Earth Driller: Screw anchors literally screw into the ground, making them highly secure but also very specific in their use.

Description: This anchor type looks like a giant corkscrew and is twisted manually into soft or muddy bottoms.

• Highly Secure: Once it’s in, it’s in.
• Environmental: Minimal impact on sensitive bottoms.
• Manual Installation: Requires effort to screw into the ground.
• Very Specific Use: Only useful in soft, penetrable bottoms like mud or sand.

Pyramid Anchors

The Weighty Titan: These anchors are heavy and rely on weight rather than design to hold the kayak in place.

Description: True to their name, pyramid anchors have a pyramidal shape and are heavy, designed to sink quickly into the bottom.

• Simple Design: Just drop it in, and the weight does the rest.
• Strong Hold: Great for stronger currents and winds.
• Heavy: Not ideal for long paddles where you have to carry it.
• Limited Versatility: Not effective in rocky or heavily weeded areas.

Sand Anchors

The Beach Buddy: Sand anchors are designed for sandy bottoms and are often inflatable or bag-style anchors filled with sand.

Description: These anchors usually consist of a bag or sack that can be filled with sand, serving as a weight to hold the kayak in place.

• Lightweight: When empty, they weigh next to nothing.
• Easy to Store: Deflate or empty the sand, and it’s super compact.
• Limited Use: Only good for sandy bottoms.
• Potential for Leaks: Inflatable models can puncture.

Drogue Anchors

The Drifter’s Choice: Unlike traditional anchors, a drogue anchor slows down your drift rather than stopping you completely, often used for trolling.

Description:  A drogue anchor resembles a water-resistant parachute or cone.

• Controlled Drift: Allows for a slower, more controlled drift.
• Easy Storage: Usually made of fabric and easy to stow.
• Not for Stopping: You will continue to drift, albeit slowly.
• Manual Adjustment: Requires frequent checking and adjusting.

How to Choose the Right Kayak Anchor

When it comes to choosing the perfect kayak anchor, the devil is in the details. We’re not just talking about knowing the difference between a mushroom anchor and a grapnel anchor. I mean understanding the specifications like weight, size, material, and how versatile it is for different kayaking conditions.

Weight and Size

Anchors by the Pound

• 1.5 to 2.5 lbs: Ideal for calm waters, like lakes or slow-moving rivers. Not recommended for winds above 10 mph or currents above 1 knot.
• 3 to 4 lbs: Suitable for slightly choppier conditions, including mild ocean currents or winds up to 20 mph.
• 5 lbs and above: Recommended for extreme kayaking in fast currents, strong winds, or heavy tides.

Size Considerations

• Foldable Grapnel Anchors: When folded, these can be as compact as 12 inches by 3 inches, easily fitting into most kayak storage compartments.
• Mushroom Anchors: A 5-pound mushroom anchor could have a diameter of about 8 inches, so make sure you have ample storage space.

Commonly Used Materials

• Galvanized Steel: Heavier but highly durable. Resistant to rust and good for saltwater use. Weights typically range from 3 to 10 lbs.
• Aluminum: Lighter, weights range from 1 to 4 lbs. Good for freshwater but can corrode over time in saltwater.
• Plastic/ Stake-Out Poles : These are lightweight, often under a pound, and great for soft bottoms in shallow waters.

Material Lifespan

• Galvanized Steel: Can last several years with proper care.
• Aluminum: Generally has a shorter lifespan, especially in saltwater conditions.
• Plastic/Stake-Out Poles: May need replacing every season if used frequently.

Versatility

Number of Conditions Served

• Grapnel Anchors: These are the Swiss Army Knives of kayak anchors. They’re generally effective in 4 out of 5 types of bottoms—sand, mud, gravel, and rock—but may struggle with very soft, silty bottoms.
• Mushroom Anchors: Good for two types of bottoms: mud and sand.
• Danforth Anchors: Effective in 3 types of bottoms—sand, mud, and gravel—but not ideal for rocky or weedy conditions.

Versatility Index

• Highly Versatile: Grapnel anchors and Plow anchors. Useful in multiple water conditions and types of bottoms.
• Moderately Versatile: Danforth anchors and Bruce/Claw anchors. Good for several but not all conditions.
• Less Versatile: Mushroom anchors and Stake-Out Poles. Best for specialized conditions like soft bottoms or shallow waters.

Using Your Kayak Anchor Safely

Anchoring isn’t just about choosing the right type of kayak anchor; it’s also about using it correctly and safely. No matter how good your anchor is, if you don’t use it properly, you’re inviting trouble. Here, we’ll go over the important aspects of securing your kayak anchor and knowing when it’s appropriate to use it.

Secure the Kayak Anchor Properly

Before you even think of dropping your anchor into the water, you need to make sure it’s secured to your kayak the right way. Trust me; you don’t want to lose an anchor—or worse, capsize—because you didn’t secure it well.

Steps for Securing Your Anchor:

• Anchor Trolley: Using an anchor trolley system gives you flexibility in positioning your anchor. It allows you to set your anchor off the bow or stern, not just the side, which is essential in strong currents or winds.
• Knots Matter: Use a strong, secure knot to attach the anchor line to your anchor and kayak. The bowline knot or anchor hitch are solid choices.
• Check the Depth: Use a depth finder or a marked anchor line to ensure you’re anchoring in an appropriate depth. A general rule is to use a rope that’s at least three times longer than the water is deep.
• Anchor Chain: An additional 1-2 feet of chain between the anchor and the rope can provide extra holding power, especially in strong currents.
• Give It a Test: Before you rely on it in a tricky situation, test the anchor close to the shore or in shallow water to make sure it holds.
• Always Have a Quick Release: Whether it’s a float or a quick-release knot , have a system in place to quickly detach the anchor in case of emergency.

Know When to Use Your Kayak Anchor

Just because you have an anchor doesn’t mean you should use it all the time. Knowing when to drop anchor can be just as important as knowing how to do it.

Ideal Scenarios for Anchoring:

• Fishing: Anchoring can keep you over that prime fishing spot for extended periods.
• Photography: Need to hold steady for that perfect shot? An anchor can help.
• Resting: Sometimes, you just want to float without drifting. Drop anchor and relax.
• Emergency Situations: Strong winds or currents might necessitate an anchor drop to prevent being pulled into a dangerous area.

When Not to Use Your Anchor:

• High Traffic: Avoid anchoring in high-traffic areas where you might pose a hazard to other watercraft.
• Deep Water: Unless you have an exceptionally long anchor line, anchoring in very deep water is often impractical.
• Stormy Conditions: In extreme weather conditions, an anchor can make matters worse, not better.

Maintenance and Storage

Think of your kayak anchor as a trusted friend. The better you treat it, the better it’ll treat you—especially when you’re out on the water, relying on it to hold you steady in the currents and winds. Here’s how you can keep it well-maintained for many years to come.

Regular Cleaning

You wouldn’t let your fishing gear get all rusty and crusty, would you? The same goes for your anchor.

• Freshwater Rinse: After each kayaking adventure, make it a habit to rinse off your anchor with fresh water. This is crucial for removing salt, sand, and grime that can accelerate wear and tear.
• Deep Cleaning: Once a month, or after an especially grueling kayaking trip, soak your anchor in a vinegar and water solution for about an hour. This helps dissolve stubborn calcium and rust deposits.
• Scrub: Use a stiff brush to remove stubborn dirt or rust. For metal anchors, a wire brush can be particularly effective.

Routine Inspection

Before and after each use, make it a habit to inspect your anchor meticulously.

• Check for Wear: Look for visible signs of corrosion, rust, or fraying on the ropes. Any of these could be a sign your anchor needs replacing or repair.
• Moving Parts: If your anchor has moving parts like a grapnel or claw anchor, ensure they move freely and are not jammed or rusted. A stuck part could mean your anchor won’t set properly.
• Look for Damage: Small cracks, bends, or other deformities can compromise the anchor’s holding power.

Seasonal Maintenance

Once a year, preferably before the start of kayaking season, do a complete overhaul.

• Replace Ropes: If your ropes show signs of fraying or other damage, replace them.
• Lubrication: Apply a rust-preventative lubricant to moving parts to ensure they operate smoothly.
• Professional Inspection: For high-end anchors, consider a professional inspection to ensure optimal performance.

The way you store your kayak anchor when it’s not in use can significantly affect its lifespan.

• Dry Before Storing: Always make sure your anchor is completely dry before storing it. Moisture is a recipe for rust.
• Proper Bag: Use a ventilated, durable bag designed for anchor storage. This will protect it from the elements and make it easy to transport.
• Avoid Direct Sunlight: UV rays can weaken ropes over time, so store your anchor in a cool, shaded area.
• Regular Checks: Even when not in use, periodically check your stored anchor for any signs of deterioration.

There you have it, a complete guide to kayak anchors. From the basics to the types of anchors and how to choose the right one for you, we’ve covered it all. Proper anchoring can transform your kayaking experience from good to fantastic. Remember, the anchor you choose is as important as how you use it. Always prioritize safety and know when to drop anchor and when to paddle on. And don’t forget, a well-maintained kayak anchor is a long-lasting anchor. Happy kayaking!

Q: Can I use any rope for my kayak anchor?

A: While you can technically use any strong rope, it’s advisable to use marine-grade ropes that resist saltwater corrosion.

Q: What is the minimum length of rope I should have?

A: A general rule is to have a rope that’s at least three times the depth of the water you’ll be anchoring in.

Q: Do I need different anchors for different activities?

A: It’s a good idea to have different types for different conditions and activities. For example, a grapnel anchor is good for fishing, while a drogue anchor is better for drift fishing.

Q: Can I make a DIY anchor?

A: While it’s possible, remember that a poorly made anchor can compromise your safety. If you go DIY, make sure you know what you’re doing.

Q: How often should I inspect and maintain my anchor?

A: Inspect your anchor after every use and give it a thorough cleaning at least once a season, depending on how often you use it.

Sophia Monroe

My initial goal to inspire others to embrace the wonderful world of water sports has evolved into a commitment to share my love to the widest audience possible. In a world increasingly consumed by sedentary lifestyles and digital devices, it's vital to reconnect with nature, prioritize physical activity, mental health, and live life to its fullest. I believe that by providing information and resources, we can empower ourselves to embrace strength, vitality, and a life lived to the fullest. Let's embark on this journey together!

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Anchoring Your Kayak: What To Buy & How To Use

Buyer’s Guide | Kayak Angler

W ind and current will sweep away a small, plastic boat like a leaf in a rain gutter. While you can maneuver your boat to combat the elements, there are times you will want to anchor. Anchoring is a great way to put the pedals and paddle down and concentrate on fishing. But securing a tippy kayak with an anchor can be precarious. Follow these tips to learn how to anchor a kayak.

VIEW ALL KAYAK ANCHORS AND SYSTEMS

[This article is part of the Kayak Angler Buyer’s Guide for The Best Kayak Fishing Gear For 2024 . Find all the best kayak fishing gear from the top brands for all situations.]

Types of anchors

The trick to anchoring a kayak is to secure the boat with the least amount of weight. A big, heavy anchor takes up valuable space and adds unnecessary weight. Most anglers use a grapnel anchor with four sharp prongs that fold up to fit in the kayak. In shallow water, use a stakeout pole to quickly secure the boat. The best poles are aluminum or fiberglass with a pointed tip to drive into the soft bottom.

For the fastest way to secure a boat, look at a powered anchoring system. To stop the boat, push a button on a key fob and a motor in the stern will drop a stakeout pole into the sand.

River anglers anchor in rocky bottom with a drag chain. You can use a two-foot section of heavy chain (7/16-inch works well) wrapped in a bicycle tube or duct tape and tied to a 12-foot rope. Some anglers use a retractable dog leash. With the former method, the chain hangs in the rocks without getting stuck, working to anchor the kayak in swift water. Practice how to anchor a kayak in controlled conditions before heading out into big water.

Choosing an anchor

Different types of bottom require different types of fishing kayak anchors. In sandy or soft bottom, use a folding grapnel anchor. In shallow water over sand or mud, use a stakeout pole equal to the depth of the water. Most anglers choose a six- or eight-foot pole. Aluminum is stronger, but fiberglass poles are usually lighter. It is quicker and easier to use a stakeout pole than to set out an anchor.

Anglers who need to stop the boat in a hurry will choose a powered anchor system. If you sight fish on the flats or float lazy rivers, the convenience of push-bottom anchoring will pay off in that it’ll give you more time fishing. Most river anglers make their own drag chain—see above for instructions.

How heavy should a kayak anchor be?

A fishing kayak anchor should be heavy enough to hold the kayak without adding unnecessary weight to the boat. For a lighter kayak in calm water, a three-pound grapnel anchor will hold bottom. If you are fishing from a larger kayak in deeper water, you’ll want to use a five- to seven-pound grapnel anchor.

Drag chains are heavy enough to sink quickly and stick in the rocks without snagging. A heavy-duty stakeout pole will spear the soft sand or mud and hold a kayak in wind and current. Anglers use stakeout poles in shallow water, so a six-foot pole is long enough without taking up too much space on the kayak.

What else you’ll need

What is a kayak anchor trolley.

One of the earliest inventions in the history of modern kayak fishing is the anchor trolley. Faced with the dilemma of securing a tippy kayak in swift water and wind, anglers needed a way to run the anchor from the bow or stern of the boat. The result is the anchor trolley. A thin rope (550 paracord) runs from midship to the bow or stern and back to midship. The ends of the rope are tied to a small carabiner.

Drop the anchor in the water and clip the rope through the carabiner. Then, like running a flag up a flagpole, pull the trolley line to move the carabiner and anchor rope to the bow or stern of the boat. When the anchor catches, the kayak turns so the current and wind are pushing on the pointy end of the boat.

What size rope for a kayak anchor?

Choosing the correct size rope for a kayak anchor is a delicate balance. You need a rope strong enough to hold the kayak and thin enough to use the lightest anchor possible. Many anglers choose 3/16-inch rope. Too heavy, and water pressure on the rope could drag the anchor or keep it from catching bottom. If the rope is too light, it will cut into your hands or break under pressure.

What kind of rope for a kayak anchor?

To meet these needs, many anglers use a length of polyester clothesline. Clothesline will hold the kayak without stretching. It doesn’t tangle easily and ties a strong knot. Polyester clothesline is round so it presents less water resistance allowing you to use a lighter anchor. Best of all, polyester is water-resistant so it doesn’t soak up water and dries quickly. When it’s time to pull the anchor, a clothesline won’t dig into your hands.

What size chain for a kayak anchor?

Adding a two-foot length of 3/8-inch chain between the grapnel anchor and the rope will pull the anchor into the bottom. This is only necessary with a heavy kayak in swift or deep water. For most anglers, tying the grapnel anchor directly to the anchor rope will hold the boat. River anglers use a 7/16-inch chain.

How long should a kayak anchor line be?

As a general rule, an anchor rope should be twice as long as the water is deep. If you are anchoring in 10 feet of water, expect to pay out 20 feet of rope. The extra scope allows the anchor to drag and catch the bottom. In strong current or rough conditions, let out more line to smooth the ride.

How to attach an anchor to a kayak

Anchoring a kayak is one of the most important skills to master. If the kayak turns sideways in the current or wind, the boat could flip over and the angler might become tangled in the line. To avoid this outcome, learn how to anchor a kayak and then practice to develop safe protocols.

Develop these moves in controlled, calm conditions before heading into big water.

• Begin with the rope coiled loosely on the kayak deck. Drop the anchor overboard and quickly clip the line through the carabiner on the anchor trolley.
• As line pays out, run the anchor trolley to the bow or stern. When the anchor hits bottom, continue to release line until you have about twice as much line out as the depth of the water.
• Hold the anchor rope and let the line come tight. If the anchor drags, let out more line. Once the boat stops, secure the rope in the kayak.
• The best way to tie off the anchor line is a small, plastic cleat. For a low-profile and quick-release connection, use a jam cleat to hold the line. An important consideration in how to tie an anchor to a kayak is being able to release the anchor quickly and smoothly.
• When it’s time to pull the anchor, start by clearing space on the deck for the anchor rope. Pull in rope, looping it on the deck, until the kayak is directly over the anchor. Then, retract the anchor trolley and pull the anchor out of the sand and into the boat.

Other notes

Anchoring a kayak at sea.

The ocean is rough with swift current and deep water making anchoring a kayak almost impossible. Anglers may choose to anchor their kayak over a wreck or reef. To secure the anchor line to the reef without getting stuck, use a kayak wreck anchor. This anchor features four wire spines stuck into two-pounds of lead. Drop the anchor to the wreck and let the spines catch. When it’s time to go, pull hard and the spines bend back to release the anchor.

Anchoring a kayak in rivers

Due to the strong current, anchoring a kayak in a river is especially difficult. To secure the boat without getting stuck in the rocks, river anglers use a drag chain. Instead of using an anchor trolley, river anglers run the rope directly through the stern of the kayak. This rigging makes it quick and easy to deploy and pull the anchor without risking turning the boat sideways in the current.

Where to store the anchor on a kayak

Carrying an anchor adds significant weight, making it harder to paddle or pedal the kayak. For the best balance, store the anchor in the center of the kayak and close to or under the seat. This places the weight of the anchor closer to the weight of the angler where it will have less effect on the performance of the kayak

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Anchoring 101: The Basics of Kayak Anchor Systems

Kayaking is a great way to explore waterways, but sometimes you need to stop and take in the scenery, fish or have a picnic. That's where anchoring comes in. An anchor helps you stay in place and enjoy the moment.

However, selecting the right anchor system for your kayak and understanding how to use it can be a challenge. That's why we're here to help you understand the basics of kayak anchoring systems.

Types of Anchors

The two most common types of anchors for kayaks are fluke anchors and grappling anchors.

Fluke Anchors

Fluke anchors are the most popular type of anchor for kayaks. They are made of metal and have two flukes (or prongs) that dig into the bottom to keep the kayak in place. They come in various sizes and weights, and the size you choose will depend on the size of your kayak, the type of water you'll be on, and the wind and current conditions.

Grappling Anchors

Grappling anchors, also known as foldable anchors, are made of a combination of metal and nylon. They have arms that fold up for easy storage, but when deployed, they hook onto rocks, trees, or other objects to anchor the kayak.

Anchor Lines and Ropes

The anchor line is what connects the anchor to the kayak. It should be strong and made of a material that won't stretch, such as braided nylon rope or braided polypropylene.

It's important to choose an anchor line that's the right length for your kayak and conditions. A general rule of thumb is to have 5 to 7 feet of line for every 1 foot of water depth. This gives you enough line to reach the bottom and keep the kayak in place.

Anchor Trolleys

Anchor trolleys are a system that allows you to move the anchor line from one side of the kayak to the other. This makes it easier to adjust the position of the kayak and keep it facing the right direction. Anchor trolleys are especially useful in windy conditions.

How to Use an Anchor System

Now that you have an understanding of the different types of anchors and the components of an anchor system, it's time to learn how to use it.

Determine the best spot to anchor. Look for a sheltered area with a solid bottom, away from any obstacles or hazards.

Determine the depth of the water. You can use a depth finder or measure the length of a paddle and hold it vertically in the water.

Deploy the anchor. If you're using a fluke anchor, simply drop it into the water and let out the appropriate amount of line. If you're using a grappling anchor, find a solid object to hook onto and then let out the line.

Adjust the line. If you're using an anchor trolley, move the line to the desired side of the kayak to keep it facing the right direction. If you're not using an anchor trolley, use the paddle to position the kayak.

Secure the line. Make sure the line is tight and won't slip, and then secure it to the kayak.

Enjoy the scenery. Sit back and relax, knowing that your kayak is anchored in place.

In conclusion, anchoring is an important part of kayaking and helps you enjoy the water and surroundings. By understanding the basics of kayak anchoring systems, you can

make informed decisions about the right anchor and gear for your kayak, and have a safe and successful experience on the water.

It's important to always be mindful of your surroundings, especially when anchoring in windy or unpredictable conditions. Make sure you have the necessary equipment, such as a depth finder, anchor line, and anchor trolley, and understand how to use it properly.

When in doubt, always err on the side of caution and seek advice from experienced kayakers or a knowledgeable retailer. With a little preparation and knowledge, you can have peace of mind and enjoy the scenic beauty and recreational opportunities that kayaking has to offer.

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Anchoring in the kayak – Ultimate Guide

Anchoring in the kayak can be dangerous – the following is intended as a guide only. Always get appropriate training before trying these techniques and only venture out if it is safe to do so.

httpvp://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL76806E8856213A68

Most of my kayak fishing in the UK, is performed whilst at anchor. This can be difficult, especially where I live near the Bristol Channel, where we have the second highest tidal range in the world.

The system I use relies on the following pieces of kit…

• A 1.5kg folding grapnel anchor with a trip mechanism,
• 3 feet of 6mm chain,
• A diver’s reel,
• A quick release mechanism
• An anchor trolley system attached to the kayak

The kit can be split into 3 systems…

The Anchor System

The anchor, chain and bouy and reel, are all connected together…

This anchor is foldable – this helps when storing it in the rear crate of the kayak.

It also has a ‘trip’ mechanism. This is supposed to help free the anchor if it gets stuck in a rock/crevice (ooooh errr missus !). There are several methods that I have seen for “trip” mechanisms – most involve attaching the chain top and bottom of the anchor. The most popular one involves using cable ties at the top of the anchor to attach it to the chain. People cut a small nick in the cable tie, the theory being that if the anchor gets snagged, they can pull on the anchor line and the cable tie will snap, allowing the anchor to be pulled from the bottom (which hopefully frees it). The only problem that I find with this method is that sometimes the cable tie breaks too easily, resulting in the anchor tripping – and you drift off down tide when you should be fishing ! I have also experienced the opposite, where the anchor does not trip when you are pulling like mad – very frustrating ! Recently, I have been using a commercial gadget purposely designed to trip the anchor when it gets snagged. Its called the anchor trip link, and I have reviewed it here…

https://dizzybigfish.co.uk/review-of-anchor-trip-link-clip/

The other method for tripping the anchor is known as a bridle. I have used a bridle for a few years now – this is a small section of rope which runs from the top to the bottom of the anchor and attaches via shackles. The chain is attached via a shackle which is free to run along the length of the bridle.

There has to be a bit of slack in the bridle for it to work properly – too much and it will not work at all.

The idea is that when the anchor is set in the tide, the chain slides to the front and holds everything in place normally…

If the anchor becomes snagged, or you want to retrieve, you simply paddle up tide (past the anchor) and then pull the anchor from up tide of its position. The shackle slides to the bottom of the anchor and hopefully frees it….

“Why not use the anchor line all the way to the anchor and dispense with the chain altogether ?”

Good Question- I’m glad you asked ! Well, the chain actually makes a heck of a difference to the dragging power – apart from adding weight, it also changes the angle the anchor line makes with the anchor and irons out sudden movements on the line from the kayak which can shift the anchor. It really does work – I use 3 feet of 6mm chain – if the tides are not very strong where you fish, then you can get away with less.

The chain section is then attached to a length of Para cord/nylon which is wound onto a divers reel. Usually, you get the line for free when you buy the divers reel. The reel has a brake/ratchet which locks the line (stops it from coming out when anchored). To release the line, simply press the lever. Be careful when deploying the anchor over the side of the kayak – its a good idea to slow the revolving drum with your hand as the anchor drops to the sea-bed (otherwise you can get an overrun – a right mess). I attach my float to the anchor reel (but you can have it sliding along the anchor line).

I use a bouy which is big enough to support the weight of the  anchor, but it is not essential. (I dropped the anchor system over the side, forgetting to let the line out ! If I hadn’t had a big float – the whole lot would have been lost to Davey Jones Locker !). I also like to use 3M reflective tape and sometimes an LED on the float when night fishing.

The Anchor Trolley

The Anchor trolley on the kayak, is essentially a mechanism by which the kayak can be tethered from the bow (or stern) to the anchor system. Obviously, you cannot reach the end of the kayak  from your seated position amidships (unless you are Stretch Armstrong) – and anchoring from the middle of the kayak would push the kayak broadside to tide and waves – very dangerous. The anchor trolley uses 2 pulleys, some rope and a karabiner along the length of the kayak.

The anchor trolley allows you to move the anchor system so that it is as close to the stern (or bow) of the kayak as possible. The closer the attachment point is to the end of the kayak, the more stable the kayak will be in tide/swell. If it is not attached near the back of the kayak, then the kayak will be turned at an angle to the tide and will start to sway from side to side.

The pulley blocks at either end of the trolley line are attached to the kayak via a short section of elastic bungee. This absorbs some of the shocks as the waves and tide move the kayak around.

I have two anchor trolleys on the kayak – one from the stern to amidships, and one from the bow to amidships. You could use a single trolley which goes the whole length of the kayak, but I find that if you do this, the lines tend to cut across the cockpit area. It also gives me the ability to use the drogue on the front trolley whilst anchored off the rear trolley (when trying to fish in a wind against tide scenario).

For more information on how to set up an anchor trolley on the yak follow this link.

The Quick Release mechanism

This allows you to disconnect the kayak from the anchor system very quickly.

All three systems integrate to provide a simple, flexible solution to anchoring in the kayak. The following sections will provide more detail on the individual components.

The quick release mechanism allows you to quickly attach and drop-off the anchor – or indeed any other suitable fixture – such as a pot bouy. I used to use a section of floating rope tied to the end of the divers reel, but the following method is much better…

My good friend James (Overrun) must take the credit for this – it is simple, quick and easy – I love it.

The reel and cord was bought from a well known DIY store for approx. £10. I then added a short section of bungee to the reel and joined the bungee to the nylon line..

The line needs to be long enough to reach from amidships all the way past the stern of the kayak, to the anchor bouy and back again.

The reel also has teeth which keeps the line in place and avoids having line all over the place when it is not in use…

The most tricky bit is attaching the quick release to the anchor.

• Drag the anchor trolley back to the cockpit

• Drop the anchor bouy and move the anchor trolley to the stern of the kayak (remembering not to let go of the free end of the quick release line !!!)

You are now anchored and locked off. It sounds complicated, but I promise you it is not. This is what it looks like when you are anchored up and locked off. From the cockpit …

At the stern…

View looking out the back of the kayak when at anchor…

In order to release from anchor, just release the quick release !….

You can then unlock the anchor trolley and pull it back to the cockpit. The quick release line will simply slide around the anchor and the kayak will drift away with the tide.

You can use the same method to attach to pot bouys or attach to other kayaks etc etc – really flexible.

There is an art to accurate anchoring in the kayak – and I will be the first to admit that I get it wrong alot of the time !

Tide, wind and the depth of water all conspire to make things as difficult as possible. I must stress that I am no expert – but here is what I have learned…

I use a GPS and the fish finder together at the same time – for reasons which will become obvious. I am assuming that you already have the mark (or waypoint) programmed into your GPS. This is where you want the kayak to be, once you have dropped anchor and set everything up.

If I want to be accurate then I paddle to a point up tide of the target waypoint and let wind and tide drift the kayak for half a minute/minute with the GPS switched on. Then I look at the GPS breadcrumb trail which will show me which way the kayak has drifted and how close it was to the target waypoint. If you are lucky, the drift may have taken you directly over your target waypoint – if so, just paddle back to the start of the previous drift and skip the next bit. Invariably the drift will take you (hopefully !) close to the target – the idea is to paddle to a new start point where the drift will take you over the target. Remember that the new drift should be parallel to the original – so it just needs to shift a bit – you should be able to do this visually using the GPS.

Now for the tricky bit ! You need to drop the anchor in a position which allows you to end up over the target – so the anchor has to be deployed a certain distance/time before you hit the target. The three main factors which you need to take into account are :-

• The distance to your target waypoint (The GPS will show you this)
• The speed of the drift (the GPS will show you this)
• The depth of the water (this will be shown on the fish finder)

The first factor is dynamic – the distance to the target waypoint will be decreasing all the time and is directly proportional to the second factor – the speed of the drift. The faster the drift, the quicker the distance to the waypoint will decrease.

The speed of the drift and the depth of water should be relatively constant (if you are lucky !).

The faster the drift, the sooner you will have to drop the anchor (otherwise you will overshoot the target).

Use the things you know….

You know roughly how much anchor warp you need to let out – its approx. equal to 2.5 times the depth of the water. A very rough calculation is :-

Look at the distance to the target on the GPS, and drop the anchor when that distance reaches approx. 2*Depth of Water

Get everything ready for that point – have the trolley pulled back by the cockpit, the anchor unfolded, the quick release to hand etc. Remember to release the brake on the anchor reel ! And keep feeding line out, after the anchor has hit the sea bed.

Then either clip the quick release in, or if the tide is strong, paddle back up tide to the bouy and clip in.

If your final position is way out from the target waypoint, then you may have to up-anchor and re-position. Remember – that it is not an exact science – if the tide is running, then you may need to deploy the anchor sooner and let out more anchor line in order for the anchor to grip properly.

Then lock everything off – the anchor line and the quick release.

Up-Anchoring

I have seen several different methods used to up-anchor – this is the method I use. This is probably the single most tricky part of anchoring, and if something is going to go wrong, it will go wrong at this stage. Please bear in mind that these steps are for guidance only – there is no substitute for proper training – always be safe.

• Release the quick release (see the quick release section above)
• Store the quick release out of the way (in the rear crate)
• Paddle back up-tide to the anchor bouy
• Lift the anchor bouy and reel into the cockpit
• Paddle to a point well up tide of where the anchor is located
• Drift back down tide, pulling in the anchor warp by hand as you drift feeding the free line back into the water (making sure that the free warp line does not catch on you or anything in the kayak)
• Pull the chain and anchor into the cockpit
• Use the diver’s reel to reel back the free anchor warp onto the reel
• Store the reel, bouy, chain and anchor in the crate

I know that some people use a cleat and the anchor trolley when paddling back up tide to tie off the warp to the kayak. I would be interested in people’s view on this one – I prefer to have the lot where I can easily let go of the warp if there is a problem – it may mean I have to paddle back up-tide again – but I think it is safer.

Step 5 is probably the most problematic. If the anchor is stuck, then paddling up tide as in the steps should free it, using the trip mechanism outlined earlier in the article. Sometimes, no matter how well you follow the steps, the anchor will not budge – even with the trip. Do not be tempted to lean back and pull for all you are worth – more than likely, one of two things will happen a) The anchor will give suddenly and you will fall over backwards or b) A wave will lift the kayak and tip you off the side of the kayak. The best thing to do, is to release the line and to repeat the steps from step 5, and try to paddle back up tide at a slightly different angle. If after a couple of tries, the anchor does not free itself, then just cut the anchor warp. Better to lose an anchor and some chain than risk a capsize. This is another reason why it is always a good idea to carry a spare anchor and chain.

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A Guide to Kayak Anchors: Keeping Your Kayak in One place

October 12, 2021 14 min read

Your kayak is loaded with your tackle box, a cooler , and the gear for a full day of fishing . Your fingers twitch as they grip the fishing pole and cast your line. You feel the tug, your reel zings with the promise of a big catch!

Just then, a gust of wind blows, and your kayak drifts away from your fishing hole. You grab your paddle to keep from floating away, but as soon as your hand lets go of your reel - the fish breaks free of your line. 

After a few choice words, you lean back in your kayak seat and wish you’d brought an anchor. 

This guide to kayak anchors will tell you everything you need to know about the best anchors for your kayak and the appropriate way to secure your vessel. Keep reading and the next fish won’t get away!

Why Use a Kayak Anchor?

A kayak is designed to move effortlessly across the water, and it will move even faster with a current or gust of wind. And sometimes you need to stop your kayak! 

A kayak anchor can hold your kayak in one position while you’re parked in your favorite fishing spot, if your arms get tired and you need a rest from paddling, or if you’re connecting with friends mid-lake and simply want to float. Anchoring your kayak will protect you from endless paddling when the wind, waves, or current threaten to whisk you away. 

You can also use a kayak anchor for other watercraft such as canoes, personal watercraft (PWC), and paddle boards. Have you ever tried fishing from a paddle board ? SUP fishing is another great option to access tight fishing holes while having a great vantage point to visualize the water. Some even prefer SUP fishing over kayak fishing !

Types of Kayak Anchors

There are multiple types of kayak anchors and we’ll review the different basic designs and anchor systems. When choosing an anchor, take into consideration the depth of the water, the weight of your boat, the consistency of the water’s bottom, and your ability to transport the anchor. 

We’ll review the different types of anchors, recommend our favorites, and then dive into the best way to anchor your kayak.

Grapnel Anchor

A grapnel anchor is the most common kayak anchoring system . A grapnel anchor consists of four folding flukes that open up to grasp the bottom of the lake or ocean. It can hold easily in almost any substance such as sand, rock, mud, or weeds to keep your kayak in position. 

A grapnel anchor’s flukes fold down nicely for easy transport and storage in your kayak. Most grapnel kayak anchors come in either 1.5 lb or 3.5 lb sizes.

Because grapnel anchors are the most versatile and able to adapt to most any environment, they are the most efficient and useful way to anchor a kayak. See our list of  favorite kayak anchors  below to see our favorite grapnel anchors.

We Recommends: Kayak and Paddle Board Anchor Kit

Mushroom Anchor

A mushroom anchor is a simple weight shaped like an upside-down mushroom. It is not designed to grasp the bottom, but it’s simply heavy enough to prevent your craft from floating away. The good news is that, because of its smooth edges, it rarely gets stuck at the bottom. 

Because mushroom anchors work by being heavy, they typically weigh at least 8 lbs. They are difficult and awkward to store and transport in your kayak. They work best in calm waters with low wind.

We Recommends: Attwood Cast Iron Mushroom Anchor

Bruce Claw Anchor

A Bruce Claw anchor is designed for use on a soft river or lake bottom. It usually has three flukes shaped into a shovel-like appearance to dig into the soft ground. 

A Bruce Claw anchor is worthless on a rocky bottom because it is unable to grasp. Although not suited for every environment, it can be a good option for fishing over sand or mud.

We Recommends: MarineNow Galvanized Bruce Style Anchor

Stake-Out Pole

A stake out pole uses a simple concept to anchor your kayak. Simply stick the pole down into the water’s bottom and attach the other end to your kayak. The principle relies on a soft substrate for the pole to sink into and you’re at the mercy of the pole’s length as to how deep you can go. 

It can be a simple option for shallow water kayak fishing that doesn’t take up much space and is  easy to use and retrieve. While it may be suited to limited environments, it can be perfect for shallow, sandy fishing.

We Recommends: YakAttack ParkNPole Stakeout Pole

Drift Chute

A drift chute is not designed to stop your kayak or watercraft, just simply slow it down. A drift chute works like a parachute; when you throw it in the water, it fills with water to create resistance as the wind or current moves your kayak. 

It works well on lakes or large bays to launch a drift chute and let the wind slowly push you across the water. Your hands are still free to fish and your speed slows enough to work your fishing line—a perfect option for trolling.

We Recommends: Moocy 24-Inch Drift Sock Sea Anchor Drogue

Brush Gripper

A brush anchor or brush gripper is basically a clamp that attaches to an inanimate object such as a dock, brush, weeds, tree, or other objects. You tie the other end off to your kayak like you would any anchor. 

Brush grippers are simple, but using one means you’ll be stuck close to a shoreline as you need to find something to anchor to, and if the weeds or brush break free of your clip, you’ll float away. Sometimes it’s a good option to combine with a stake out pole, however.

We Recommends: YakGear Brush Gripper Boat

Downrigger Weight

A downrigger weight is a heavy ball with a fin that works similar to a mushroom anchor. The cast iron ball is designed to anchor by its weight alone. It can slow down your kayak and likely hold it still on a calm day without many waves. The smooth surface will not cause damage when you pull it in, but it has no capacity to grasp rocky terrain.

It is a crude version of an anchor that is not easy to transport and store in your kayak, and it’s unable to grasp the bottom to prevent heavy wind or waves from bouncing it across the rocks below.

We Recommends: Extreme Max 3006.6729 Coated Ball with Fin

A drag chain is something you can create on your own out of heavy metal chain links and a retractable dog leash. The concept is that 1-2 feet of chain is dropped overboard by your retractable system, and it drags on the bottom to slow your float. 

It can drag over sand, rock, weeds, or rock and rarely gets snagged. It’s a good way to slow your float in a hands-free manner to allow more time to cast your fishing line into the brush.

We Recommends: SeaChoice Galvanized Anchor Lead Chain

Sand Anchor

A sand anchor is a corkscrew style rod that drives into shallow water, sand or mud to hold your kayak. It’s a great option for shallow water fishing, but it limits your location to shallow waters along the shoreline and typically will not allow deepwater fishing.

We Recommends: SandShark Lite 18" Sand Anchor

How to Anchor Your Kayak

We’ve looked at a few styles of anchors, so now let’s review the best way to anchor your kayak. When you stop the natural motion of a kayak, you want to ensure that you consider wind and water direction before you drop the anchor. If you do not think through the environment and conditions, you risk capsizing your craft. 

Remember the GOLDEN RULE OF ANCHORS : The 7:1 rule of anchors means that for every one foot of water you are in, you need 7 feet of line. It is a common mistake to have too little line attached to your anchor and this makes your anchor rest vertically instead of laying flat to grip the bottom. If you allow plenty of line, the anchor is able to lie on its side an hold onto the substrate. 

When in doubt, always use more anchor rope than you think you’ll need. 

Where to Attach the Anchor on Your Kayak

Anchoring your kayak can be very dangerous if not done correctly. If not attached safely, you risk capsizing, and the possible need for rescue. 

A kayak is pushed or moved by wind, current, or waves. It is important to anchor your kayak in-line with the environmental conditions. As you sit in your kayak, you want the wind or current coming straight towards you or away from you, but not coming from either side. A force from the side of your kayak is more likely to cause capsizing. 

Use an Anchor Trolley

It’s hard to launch your anchor safely from the bow or stern when you’re sitting smack dab in the middle of a kayak. An anchor trolley system comes in handy to position your anchor correctly. 

A kayak anchor trolley is a nice rig to secure your anchor, and can easily reposition your anchor from the bow to the stern without pulling the anchor all the way out of the water. It helps with quick repositioning of your anchor if necessary due to changes in wind or water flow.

An anchor trolley consists of a loop of rope that runs the length of your kayak on one side and is attached to a pulley on each end. The loop of rope is joined at a ring or carabiner, to which you attach your anchor. Attaching the anchor to the anchor trolley ring allows the kayaker to move the anchor easily along the side of the boat by tugging on the trolley rope. This gives you more control over your anchor to safely move it when the environment changes.

Consider the wind direction and flow of the water when you determine where to position your kayak. As the diagram shows, you should avoid placing your anchor directly off the side - unless you want to get wet. In the roughest waters or high winds, you are safest to anchor off the bow as you face the wind. The biggest drawback of this position is the potential to snag your anchor line when casting. Launching the anchor off the stern is common and good for average wind and water conditions. 

Anchor Clete

If you don’t want to rig up an anchor trolley, then you can attach your kayak anchor line to a clete.

If mooring in areas of wind or waves, attach the clete to either the bow or stern to prevent capsizing. Once you’ve dropped your anchor, weave the line through the clete to secure the line and then easily release it when you’re ready to move again. 

We Recommends: Tbest Zigzag Anchor Cleat

Anchor Lock

An anchor lock system attaches to a scotty mount on your kayak. Your anchor line can easily feed through the system to adjust line length. Remember to affix your anchor lock at either the bow or stern and not on the side of your kayak.

We Recommends: Scotty #277 Anchor Lock Release System

Power Pole Micro Anchor

If you opt to use a stake out pole to anchor in shallow water, you’ll  want a good system of attachment. There are many pole adaptor systems, but the key is to ensure that your stake out pole is tightly secured to the kayak to withstand waves and wind.

We Recommends: Power-Pole Micro Anchor Adjustable Mounting Base

Where to Drop Your Anchor?

Once you decide on where you want to stop your kayak, you need to consider the wind, tide, or current before dropping your anchor. If you wait until you’re on top of your destination to launch your anchor, the water will carry you beyond your target before your anchor can grasp the bottom.

The more you prepare for your anchor launch, the less likely that you’ll miss your mark. Have your anchor rope attached to the kayak and paddle upstream or upwind of your target destination. Drop the anchor and feed out the line remembering the 7:1 golden rule in regards to the amount of line needed. When you’ve reached the desired length, tie off the rope to your clete, anchor trolley or other system. Grab your fishing pole and cast it out!

Quick Release or Direct Anchoring?

When choosing an anchor - you’ll also have to consider the safety implications of each anchoring system, and determine whether quick release or direct anchoring is right for you.

With a quick-release anchoring system, you can detach from your anchor immediately and move to safety, should you need to escape the path of a speeding boat, for example. 

A direct anchoring system does not allow easy release, but it might be the simplest option to fish on your quiet lake. With either method, it is a good idea to always carry a line cutter for a quick escape.

Direct Anchoring

A direct method of anchoring is easy to use, but the only way to detach in a hurry is to cut the line. It is important to carry line cutters in the case of emergency to allow for quick escape. 

A direct kayak anchor system attaches your anchor line directly to your anchor trolley system or clete. An anchor reel can also be utilized to control the amount of line released, but it’s not necessary.

Quick Release

A quick release anchoring system is designed to easily detach your kayak from your anchor in the case of emergency. It’s a good option if you’re fishing in a high-traffic area and need to get out of the way from oncoming boats. It also is a good option if fishing in a group and you want to hold your fishing position but easily detach to meet your friends for lunch or a photo.

A quick release system consists of your anchor and rope, a floating buoy, anchor reel, and a section of floating rope. Your anchor line is attached to an anchor reel that allows the line to escape as needed. The anchor reel is attached to a floating buoy that is easy to grab on the water’s surface, and a floating line is attached to your anchor trolley. 

If you need to detach from your anchor in a hurry, simply detach the floating rope from your anchor trolley or kayak and you are free. The floating rope and buoy make it easy to locate your anchor upon your return.

Best Kayak Anchors - A Buyer’s Guide

The best kayak anchors are grapnel anchors. They are lightweight and they can grasp everything from sand to rock. They fold up easily to take up little space in your kayak. The alternative types of anchors might be ideal in certain settings, but overall, grapnel anchors are the best kayak anchors. 

Here is our list of favorites!

1. GILI Folding Grapnel Anchor

The GILI Kayak and Paddle Board Anchor is perfect to keep your vessel from floating away when you don’t want it to! A grapnel anchor is ideal when fishing in your kayak or for SUP fishing , because the four-prong design is built to grasp any type of water bottom including sand, weeds, mud, or rocky bottom.  

The GILI grapnel anchor is lightweight with four flukes that easily fold to make transport in its included carry bag. The bright colored rope and buoy make it easy to find when you’re ready to float again.  

Where to buy:

• GILI Sports

Features & Specs:

• Grapnel anchor with 4 flutes
• 30 foot rope
• Galvanized, Blue, Green, or Orange Coated
• Great for kayaks and SUP fishing as well as for SUP yoga
• Stainless steel snap hook/D-ring

What we love:

• Convenient carry bag
• Easy to store
• Bright colored buoy and line to find it easily
• Works for both kayaks and SUP
• Durable and will last

What we don't love:

• Rope could be even longer

2. Extreme Max 3006.6548 BoatTector

Extreme Max has a folding grapnel anchor that is perfect for your kayak. It is available in two sizes: 1.5 lbs and 3.5 lbs, and comes with rope, buoy, and storage bag. 

The Extreme Max anchor can be adapted for use for other small watercraft such as your paddle board or PWC. The four-fluke grapnel anchor can easily grab onto rocks, weeds, sand, or muddy substrates.

• Available in 1.5 lbs and 3.5 lbs 
• Painted and galvanized
• 25 foot rope
• Storage bag
• Includes buoy
• 4 folding flukes
• Durable for years of use
• Comes with kit including storage bag, rope, and buoy
• Can be used for kayak, SUP, and PWC
• Comes in two size options
• Shorter rope than other options
• Black rope and red buoy not easily visible in the water

3. Seattle Sports

Seattle Sports grapnel anchor is a durable four fluke grapnel anchor that’s perfect for your next kayak fishing trip. The  yellow rope is easy to see in the water and its ring attachment makes it easy to change anchor position on your kayak. 

The Seattle Sports anchor comes with more line than the average at 50 feet, and the grapnel flukes fold down to store your anchor easily in the included storage bag.

• Available in 1.5 lbs and 3.5 lbs
• Storage bag included
• Four folding flukes
• 50 foot yellow line
• Ring fitting allows easy transfer from bow to stern 
• 2 carabiners
• Long 50 ft rope for deep water
• Available in 2 sizes
• Ring for easy deployment
• Durable casted metal
• Floating buoy not included with rope
• A little pricier than other options

4. Airhead Folding Anchor System

The Airhead folding anchor system is a grapnel anchor with four flukes, floating buoy, with a storage bag included. The Airhead works well to anchor your kayak, SUP, or other small vessel and grasps onto weeds, sand, or gravel easily. 

The Airhead comes with 25 feet of marine grade rope and is painted red for better visibility.

• Folding grapnel anchor 
• Four flukes to grasp any surface
• Nylon storage bag included
• Buoy on rope
• Stainless steel attachment clip
• Galvanized steel and painted to prevent rust
• Buoy, storage bag included
• Grabs most any water bottom
• Rope could be longer - 25 foot rope only works in 3-4 feet of water

5. Yak Gear Grapnel Anchor Kit

The Yak Gear Grapnel Anchor has a simple design but with everything you need in a good grapnel anchor. Made with galvanized steel and four flukes, it is durable and can grab in various water environments. 

It comes in 1.5 and 3.3 pound options and with 30 feet of nylon rope to keep you secure in deeper water.

• Four flukes for gravel, sand, mud
• 3.3 or 1.5 lbs
• Galvanized steel - won’t rust
• Decent amount of rope - 30 feet
• Works well for kayak, SUP, small watercraft
• No buoy ball attached
• No carabiner or clip to attach to kayak

6. Compass Surf Kayak Kit

The Compass Surf Kayak Kit gives another good overall grapnel anchor to use for your kayak. Four flukes easily grasp onto mud, sand, or rock to secure your vessel, and then it easily folds to transport inside your storage bag.  

The package comes with a bonus dry bag to float on your kayak or paddle board to store your cell phone or spare clothes. The Compass Surf Kayak Kit is a nice option for fishing in a quiet cove.

• Four fluke folding grapnel anchor
• 40 foot rope
• Anchor storage bag as well as dry bag
• Snap hook attachment
• Package includes buoy, rope, and dry bag
• Durable steel
• Visible red and white buoy
• Good length of rope
• Money back guarantee
• Currently unavailable - uncertain future status

7. Best Marine Kayak Anchor

Best Marine has a grapnel anchor with four flukes to anchor your fishing kayak in any water environment. The grapnel’s flukes can grasp easily onto weeds, rocks, or sand. 

The Best Marine anchor kit includes the folding anchor with its own storage back, rope, and buoy to help you locate it easily.

• Stainless steel carabiner
• Durable galvanized steel - won’t rust
• Small buoy ball

8. Ocean Motion Kayak Anchor Kit

Ocean Motion has another great grapnel anchor kit to offer. The galvanized steel resists corrosion and the 40 foot rope allows anchoring in deeper water. 

A red buoy, reflective rope, and storage bag give you everything you need to anchor your lightweight craft.

• Grapnel anchor with four flukes
• Reflective rope with buoy
• Galvanized steel
• Reflective rope a great option for night or early morning fishing
• Included storage bag
• Durable for many water environments
• Works for kayak, canoe, or SUP
• Currently unavailable on Amazon Uncertain future status.

Find Your Anchor and Set Sail!

You’ve been schooled on the best anchors for your kayak and the safest way to secure your vessel. Consider your environment, the water’s depth, and consider an anchor trolley. Follow the tips to safely anchor your kayak to avoid a wet day on the water!

All that’s left is to find your favorite fishing hole, and drop anchor.

The most common kayak anchors will be either 1.5 lbs or 3.5 lbs in weight. The size of anchor you need will depend on the wind and water conditions as well as the weight of your gear. On a windier day, or in water with high currents, your anchor will be tested. A folding grapnel anchor provides the most security to grasp the bottom to keep your kayak still. 

The best kayak anchor is a folding grapnel anchor. A grapnel anchor is the most versatile with four flukes that can grasp onto weeds, mud, sand, or rock. The ability to fold the anchor and transport in a convenient carry bag also makes this a nice option when you’re limited on storage space. We recommend the GILI grapnel anchor kit to use for your kayak or stand up paddle board. 

There are various ways to attach an anchor to your kayak, but where to attach your anchor is the most important consideration. You should  attach your anchor to the bow or stern of the kayak to prevent the risk of capsizing. 

An anchor trolley is a great system to attach a kayak anchor. While sitting in the comfort of your kayak seat, you can easily maneuver your anchor from bow to stern with less risk of capsizing. Other ways to attach your anchor include a cleat to secure the rope or attaching an anchor lock.

The golden rule of anchor line is a 7:1 ratio: for every one foot of water depth, you need seven feet of anchor line. If your anchor line is too short, your anchor is less likely to grasp the water bottom and you will drag. It is better to release too much anchor line than too little. 

Attach your anchor at the bow or stern, but never in the middle. Face your kayak directly into the wind/currents or directly away and affix the anchor at the bow or stern. If the sheer force of wind and water comes toward your kayak from the side or if your kayak is attached at the side, it increases your risk of capsizing. Safety first.

Yes and no. If staying in one place is not your goal and you want to let the wind and water assist with trolling, then an anchor might not be necessary. But we recommend one. 

A kayak anchor can give you a hands-free way to concentrate on your fishing pole and reeling in the lunkers instead of paddling into position. A kayak anchor secures your vessel when faced with windy conditions or water currents. 

It’s possible to use an anchor such as a drift sock or drag chain, which does not keep your kayak stationary, but slows down your speed enough to work your fishing line. 

A power pole or stake out pole is an easy and convenient way to anchor in shallow water. Simply drive the power pole into a soft substrate such as mud or sand and then affix it to your kayak. When you’re ready to move to a different fishing hole, simply pull it up and move on. It is lightweight and easy to transport in your kayak. 

An anchor trolley is a convenient way to attach an anchor that provides a safe mechanism to reposition your anchor. An anchor trolley system consists of a loop of rope attached to the side of your kayak by a pulley system. A central attachment ring provides the attachment point for your kayak anchor. 

An anchor trolley is easy to use while sitting safely in your kayak seat. Simply reach over the side and tug on the rope to pull the anchor up to reposition from bow to stern.

You do not have to use an anchor trolley to anchor your kayak; you can use other attachment systems such as a clete or anchor lock. Remember to only attach your anchor to the bow or stern of your kayak to prevent capsizing. While a kayak anchor trolley system is not required, it is a safe system that can be used while kayak fishing to reposition your anchor with little effort.

Author, physician, mom and lover of all things outdoors. If there’s water or a hiking trail nearby, that's her happy place. Throw in family and a couple of dogs and it's paradise!

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Kayak Anchors Away | The 6 Best Kayak Anchor Kits in 2023

• by Chris Klenner
• March 25, 2020 January 16, 2023

Kayaks are awesome for getting you into skinny water where few other boats can. After you’ve padded up creek and sighted that monstah bass the last thing you want is for the wind to start whisking you away. Proper kayak anchors can help you avoid getting pushed around by the breeze and keep you on some fish. We’ve rounded up both the most popular anchor types and anchoring systems for kayaks.

Not every kayak anchor system can accommodate every anchor type. So it’s important to match the shape and weight of your anchor to the system you’re using.

Kayak Anchoring Systems and Anchors

Throw anchor.

It doesn’t get much simpler than grabbing a rope, tying it to something heavy, and throwing it overboard. That’s effectively all a throw anchor is. Throw anchors typically have a float at the top of a long length of rope. The float is especially handy because you can leave your anchor and come back to it later, and with any luck it’ll still be there. This feature, along with its simplicity, is one of a throw anchor’s biggest advantages.

Throw anchors are especially useful for in-shore and off-shore deep water because they can be easily made to any desired length. Just tie some cord or rope to an anchor and then tie on a float near the top. Put all of that in a bag and throw it on your yak before you hit the waves. If you want to get fancy you can tie a carabiner or snap-hook for to easily secure the rope to the boat.

While the throw anchor isn’t exactly elegant or high-tech it is is an incredibly simply and versatile anchoring solution. Sure you might get your hands wet, but you won’t put a dent in your wallet or be that upset if you end up losing it.

Brush Gripper

The Brush Gripper is an ingenious device every river paddler should have in their arsenal, and this isn’t our first time touting it’s utility. While the Brush Gripper will keep you in place it does so by grabbing a branch or tree limb rather than the river bottom. Paracord routed through the handle of the gripper ensures a proper grip. As the current pulls the cord more taut the pressure causes the gripper to clamp together with greater force. Because of this feature it’s more likely that the tree branch your on will break before the Brush Gripper does, so choose your shrubbery carefully.

You might be wondering why you would want a Brush Gripper, especially if you’ve already got an anchor system installed. First off – redundancy is a great practice for kayak angling. Second, the Brush Gripper has a ton of practical uses. It makes anchoring near the bank an absolute breeze. It also comes in handy when you’re hanging out on shore and don’t want your yak to drift away. Just grip it on a branch and you can quickly resume your beer can shotgun challenge with your friends. For under $20 this is an excellent piece of kit. Grab some extra cord while you’re at it

Anchor Lock

An Anchor Lock is a simple mechanism that aids in dropping and raising your anchor. The stem has a lever that applies pressure on the rope which prevents the anchor from dropping prematurely. Lift the rope up at an an angle and the lever disengages which allows the rope to fall freely. Anchor locks are pretty robust systems and will work with heavy anchors. The biggest downside is that you’re pot committed to your anchors location; it’s impossible to change it up on the fly, since you know, it’s locked.

Scotty’s is one of the oldest and better known brands in marine accessories. Their kayak anchor lock comes in both permanent and base mounted versions. The 2″ wide base will fit on most gunwales or bows and the lock can rotate around the base for fine tuning. The lock easily detaches from the base mounted version for easy storage during transport.

Anchor Trolley

Where you attach your anchor line on a kayak is just as important as what you’ve got on the other end of the rope. Depending on the conditions you might want to have your bow facing the current so you can cast for a more natural presentation. Or, if there’s a honey hole downstream from you, then stopping north with your stern in the current makes more sense. Making these changes manually can be difficult and dangerous. Unclipping an anchor line under tension can easily put you in a compromising situation and quickly lead to a yardsale (capsize).

Anchor Trolleys provide a quick and convenient way to switch up your anchoring secure point. Two pulleys and some line guides mount to the side of your yak. With just a tug of the rope you can move the the line forward and aft. In practice the trolley makes it incredibly easy to launch the anchor, position it to the bow, and then re-position it by your hands for retrieval all without leaving your seat. Anchor Trolleys are one of the most popular kayak anchor systems because of their low cost and versatility. If you want to keep your hands dry you can pair an Anchor Trolley with the Anchor Wizard Crank for maximum efficiency.

Anchor Wizard

Bruce VanScoyoc was tired of pulling up anchors by hand from cold waters during Michingan winters. Pondering a better way he found inspiration in the cranking mechanism of a hose reel. A few prototypes later and the anchor wizard was born.

The Anchor Wizard is one of the best kayak anchor systems out there. It provides a trouble-free and dry anchoring experience. A crank with a clutch controls the anchor tension. Turn it left and your anchor starts to sink. Turn it right and the clutch engages which will stop any more line from playing out. Keep turning right and your anchor comes back to the boat. A shoot tube mounts near the edge of the boat and helps store your anchor above the gunwales when it’s fully retracted.

If you’re in the market for an anchor wizard you’ll definitely want to plan your layout. We highly recommend using a piece of t-track in order to help mount the shoot tube. The t-track will allow you to fine-tune the tube’s position for just the right placement. Yak Attack’s t-track eyelets are also incredibly helpful in keeping the line between the tube and crank out of your way. The anchor wizard will work with a wide variety of anchor types. Make sure you use something under 8 lbs – anything greater exceeds the wizard’s drag limit and won’t retrieve. Finally the Anchor Wizard is available in a full sized (pictured) and low profile version for those who frequent shallower waters.

Power Pole Micro Anchor

The Power Pole Micro-Anchor is the high-tech anchoring solution for shallow water kayakers. There’s no more getting your hands wet, pulling up rope, or cranking in weight. Just the press of a button and your anchored. Press “Up” and you’re free from your mooring. The micro-anchor combines a linear actuator with a stake out pole for an automated and hands-free anchoring experience.

The micro anchor only weighs around 11 lbs with mount and pole attached. Most higher end fishing kayaks have dedicated well nuts molded in on the stern to accept a power pole micro anchor. The Kaku Kayaks Kaku Voodoo currently leads the pack with 5 different mounting positions around the stern. Since this is an electric piece of kit you’ll need to either spring for the custom battery or wire it up to your own solution. At $600 the Power Pole Micro Anchor is a serious investment. But if you’re sick of getting blown around in shallow waters than there’s probably no better kayak anchor system than the power pole micro-anchor .

Anchor Types

When you think of an anchor you probably imagine classic naval stock-less anchor, the one Popeye had tattooed on his arm. Grapnel style anchors are a close approximation of the classic sailor jerry designs your grandpa sported. 4 prongs fold down from a main stem to grip onto the ocean floor. Grapnels work best when there’s something for them to hold onto. They’re great in rocky bottoms, gravel, or weedy substrate in low current environments. Use a grapnel in high wind and muddy waters and you’ll be dredging up clams as your dragged out to sea.

Most grapnel anchors are made from cast aluminum and are commonly available in sizes ranging from 1.5 lbs to 6 lbs. Grapnel anchors are fairly ubiquitous in big box stores with an outdoor section and are rarely priced greater than $30. If you’re looking for a slightly higher end option then check out Tightline Anchors . They took the grapnel design and tweaked it to provide greater grip at a lower weight. The stainless steel K4x weighs only 14 oz but provides greater grip than anchors twice its size. Best of all it fits perfectly in the anchor wizard shoot tube.

It’s a great practice to tie your line to the bottom loop (underneath the folding arms) and use a zip-tie or string to secure the line to the top loop. This “break-away” configuration will make it a lot easier to retrieve your anchor if it gets stuck.

Mushroom anchors are named after their shape, which is essentially an upside down toadstool. They’ve been around since the 1800’s and are generally reserved for smaller vessels. In larger boats their higher weight requirements make them impracticale. The rule of thumb is that a mushroom anchor should weigh 10 times the lenght of the vessel. So a 30′ sailboat would need a 300 lb anchor. Good luck hauling that up.

Mushroom anchors excel with smaller craft, i.e. kayaks, and work best in muddy or silty bottoms. Once they’re wedged into the soft sea floor they’ll create a suction effect that aids in keeping your vessel in place. If you’re out on the mud-flats or salt marshes then an 8 lb mushroom anchor is an excellent option for keeping your kayak stationary. Mushroom anchors are easy to find and generally pretty cheap – we’ve seen 8 lbers going for between $10 and $15 in big box stores fairly often.

Kettle Bell/Down-Line Weight

Most anchors are designed to hold between 10x and 200x their weight in the water. Since most kayaks are well under the 500 lb range, even with a portly paddler and all your gear, it doesn’t take much to keep them put. An 8 lb kettle bell will keep all but the biggest kayaks put in calm waters. Kettle bells are available in most fitness stores and usually aren’t that expensive. The big handle makes it super easy to tie a line onto. And the large spherical shape makes it harder to get snagged on a rock.

Down-Line weights are pretty similar to a kettle bell in that it’s a heavy spherical object. They’re typically used in deep sea fishing and are designed to get bait deep into the strike zone. They also happen to make a great anchor for a kayak. Down-line weights are common at ocean side tackle shops and come in a variety of weights. We like the 6 lb version especially because it’s usually just the right size to fit an anchor wizard shoot tube.

If you’ve ever drifted down a river you’ll know that it’s usually best to go with the flow. But sometimes you might want to slow it down a little. It can be a struggle to stay put or paddle upstream. So the best option can be to just slow things down. That’s where a drag chain comes into play. Rather than trying to keep you put a drag chain will act as a brake, slowing your descent.

There aren’t any off the shelf options for a drag chain so this is one kayak anchor you’ll need to make yourself. Luckily it’s probably the easiest kayak mod you can do. Grab a length of 3/4″ chain and snap it on to a carabiner. Wrap the chain in something to deaden the clanging and you’re set to jet. You can loop the chain or use multiple shots in a cat of nine tails configuration. Plastidip, an old rod sock, or even duct tape will all mute your chain and keep your approach stealthy.

Drogue/Drift Sock

A drift sock, also known as a drogue, works in the same manner as a drag chain. It’s like driving with e-brake on. You’ll still go, but you know….slower. The drift sock is a big parachute and sits higher in the water column than a drag chain, typically just below the surface. Drift sock’s are great for deeper rivers or offshore where currents and wind are strong. It’ll also help to keep your boat straight – the tension from the drogue will keep your bow pointed into the current. A drift sock combined with an anchor trolley will let you dial in your angle to get the best position to line up repeat perfect casts.

Stake Out Pole

Heavy mud and silty bottoms can be difficult to anchor in. Loose sediment doesn’t always provide enough purchase on anchors that just drop down. Strong currents and winds can easily push you around and your anchor will drag and stir up muck that will cloud your view. Even worse is that you might get drug too close to the fish you’re targeting and spook them. One of the better options for staying put in shallow and silty water is a stake out pole.

Stake Out Poles are an excellent kayak anchor option for anglers who frequent saltwater marshes, mud flats, or sandy bottom rivers. It’s simply a 4-8′ pole that you shove deep into the mud and tie your line to. As you float down-current your pole will stay put and you’ll be in the perfect range for your quarry. This is a simple DIY project but there are plenty of great commercial options as well.

One helpful hint regarding stake out poles – don’t succumb to temptation and put them through your scupper holes. The friction and stress will wear out the plastic in your hull quickly leading to cracks and splintering. Always stake your pole outside of the yak and tie your anchor line to it.

If you’re fortunate enough to spend your days kayaking to and from sandbars, or posting up on sandy beaches, than the Sand Shark might be right up your alley. The Sand Shark is an auger anchor. A screw tip and handle drive the anchor deep into the sand to provide sufficient mooring power for a wide range of personal watercraft. It’s perfect for the impromptu beer on the beach or a sandy soiree if you’re riding tandem.

Sand Shark offers a wide variety of different auger anchor types. They’re all pretty similar in design but differ in dimensions and materials. We like the shorter stainless steel versions – they’re small enough to throw in your bow hatch and will easily hold you in pace. The Sand Shark is a unique anchor type and really only a very select lucky few paddlers will find this truly useful. Consider grabbing the Sand Shark if you spend a lot of your fishing time around sandy shores.

Yak Logic Kayak Anchors Conclusion

Anchoring isn’t exactly as fun to think about as new fishing lures or fancy pedal drives. But the right proper kayak anchoring system can make one of the biggest differences in your experience on the water. For any new or prospective kayakers out there we highly encourage you to invest in the best kayak anchor system you can afford. If nothing else grab some weight and a dumbbell and use that. Let us know if you’ve found any kayak anchors that we didn’t and happy fishing!

Kayaking Reviews

How to Attach an Anchor to a Kayak Fishing: The Ultimate Guide

Are you a kayaker who thinks anchoring a kayak is a difficult task to do? In the next fifteen minutes , you will ultimately learn how to attach an anchor to a kayak .

When I was a beginner and learning this, I met many experts and practiced this. No one skillfully guided me. But I will not do like this and will keep this whole process very simple . Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned kayaker, attaching an anchor to your kayak is an essential skill to know. 

This guide will walk you through the step-by-step process of adequately attaching an anchor to your kayak. With these tips, you’ll be able to keep your kayak securely in place, no matter the conditions.

Table of Contents

Why do you need an anchor kayak ?

An anchor can be incredibly helpful in a number of situations. Here are four reasons why you need an anchor for your kayak.

• First, an anchor can help keep you safe in rough waters. If the wind picks up or the waves get high, an anchored kayak will stay in place. This can be a lifesaver if you are in the middle of a lake or river and cannot make it to shore.
• Second, an anchor can help you fish from your kayak. If you want to stay in one spot and fish, simply drop your anchor and cast your line. You will be able to relax and enjoy fishing without having to worry about drifting away from your desired location.

Types of anchors

One of the first things you need to do when attaching an anchor to your kayak is to choose the right type of anchor for the job. There are four main types of anchors:

1-Grapnel anchor/folding anchor:

The grapnel anchor is a great choice if you need a strong and reliable anchor. It’s also quite easy to use, which is a major advantage.

However, it can be difficult to store on your kayak, and it’s not very versatile.

The folding anchor , on the other hand, is much more versatile. It can be used in a variety of different situations, and it’s very easy to store. However, it’s not as strong as the grapnel anchor , so it might not be suitable for all uses.

2-Bruce anchor:

The Bruce anchor is one of the most popular choices for kayak anchoring. It is a reliable and easy-to-use option that can provide a great deal of holding power.

The Bruce anchor gets its name from its inventor, Peter Bruce . He designed it in the 1970s as an improvement on traditional anchors.

The Bruce anchor is made up of two parts: a fluke and a shank.

• The fluke is the part that digs into the bottom,
• while the shank provides stability and keeps the anchor from getting stuck in rocks or other debris.

One advantage of the Bruce anchor over other types is that it can be easily disassembled for storage. This makes it a great choice for kayakers who have limited space in their craft.

3-Mushroom Anchor:

Mushroom anchors are a type of kayak anchor that is often used in shallow water. They are easy to use and can be very effective in holding your kayak in place.

There are a few things to keep in mind when using a mushroom anchor.

• First, they should only be used in water that is not too deep.
• Second, they should be placed on the bottom of the kayak so that they will not move around.
• Third, the rope attached to the mushroom anchor should be long enough so that you can reach the shore or another boat.

Mushroom anchors can be a great way to keep your kayak from drifting away . Just be sure to use them correctly and always have a safe way to get back to shore.

4-Mud Anchors:

Mud anchors are a great way to keep your kayak secure while you’re out on the water. There are a few things to keep in mind when choosing a mud anchor, though.

• First, make sure that the anchor is made of durable materials that can withstand the elements.
• Second, choose an anchor that is the right size for your kayak.
• Third, make sure that the anchor is easy to use so that you can get it in and out of the mud quickly.

Choosing an Anchor

When it comes to choosing an anchor for your kayak, there are a few things you need to take into consideration.

• First, what kind of bottom is the anchoring in? If it’s soft mud, you’ll want a different style anchor than if it’s hard to sand.
• Second, how deep is the water? You’ll need a longer rope if it’s deeper water so that your kayak doesn’t swing into shallower areas and get stuck.
• Finally, how windy is it? If it’s very windy, you’ll need a heavier anchor so that it doesn’t drag. 

There are a few different types of anchors to choose from depending on your needs. choose from the anchors discussed above. 

Things you need to Anchor a Fishing kayak

There are a few things you need to take into consideration when anchoring a fishing kayak.

• The weight of the kayak is important because it will determine how much anchor line you need. A heavier kayak will require more anchor lines than a lighter one.
• The type of bottom is also important. If you are anchoring in the sand, you will need less anchor line than if you are anchoring in mud or rocks.
• The wind and wave conditions are also important to consider when anchoring a fishing kayak. If it is windy, you will need more anchor lines than if it is calm.

Main tools for Anchoring

There are some tools or things to consider before learning the anchoring process.

Anchor Trolley System-(Anchor trolley component)

The kayak’s anchor trolley system is one of the most important components of the boat. It allows you to easily and securely attach your anchor line to the kayak, keeping it in place while you fish or paddle.

There are a few things to consider when choosing an anchor trolley system for your kayak.

First, you need to decide what type of system you want. There are two basic types: a rope-based system and a track-based system.

Rope-based systems are simpler and cheaper, but they can be more difficult to install and use.

Track-based systems are more expensive, but they’re easier to use and provide a more secure connection for your anchor line.

Once you’ve decided on the type of system you want, you need to choose the right size and shape for your kayak.

Size of Rope For A Kayak Anchor

The size of anchor rope you need for a kayak anchor depends on the type of kayak you have, the water conditions where you’ll be paddling, and the weight of your anchor.

In general, lighter kayaks need lighter anchors and ropes . Heavier kayaks can handle heavier anchors and ropes. If you’ll be paddling in calm water, you can get away with a smaller anchor than if you’re paddling in windy or choppy conditions.

As a general rule of thumb, use a 3/8 inch rope for light anchors in light kayaks paddle boarding in calm waters.

Use a 1/2-inch rope for heavier anchors in heavier kayaks or when conditions are more difficult.

Kind of Rope For A Kayak Anchor

Different types of rope exist for different purposes, and it is important to use the right type of rope for a kayak anchor.

The three main types of rope are natural fiber, nylon, and polyester . Natural fiber rope is made from materials like cotton or hemp and is the most traditional type of rope. Nylon rope is stronger than natural fiber rope and does not stretch as much. Polyester rope is even stronger than nylon and has a very little stretch.

It is important to choose a rope that is strong enough to hold the kayak in place but not so strong that it damages the kayak if there is a lot of movement.

Chain size For A Kayak Anchor

The size of the chain for a kayak anchor is important to consider when out on the water.

The length and weight of the chain will affect how well the anchor holds in different conditions. A heavier chain will provide more holding power but may be difficult to handle when setting or retrieving the anchor.

A longer chain will allow the anchor to reach deeper depths but may be more likely to tangle. Ultimately, it is important to find a balance between weight and length that works best for your kayaking needs.

 Kayak Anchor Line Length

There are a few things to consider when determining the length of your kayak anchor line.

• The first is the depth of the water you’ll be anchoring in. If you’re anchoring in shallow water, you won’t need as much line as you would if you were anchoring in deeper water.
• Another thing to consider is the size and weight of your kayak. A heavier kayak will require a longer anchor line than a lighter one.
• And finally, you’ll need to decide how many anchors you want to use. If you’re using multiple anchors, you’ll need more lines than if you’re just using one.

As a general rule of thumb, most kayakers use an anchor line that’s between 10 and 20 feet long.

How to attach an anchor to a kayak

Now I will let you know step by step guide for how to attach an anchor to a kayak:

Step 1: Attach the anchor line

The anchor line is what keeps your kayak stationary in the water and prevents you from being swept away by the current. Attaching the anchor line to your kayak is a simple process that can be done in a few easy steps.

• First, you’ll need to find a suitable location on your kayak to attach the anchor line. The front or back of the kayak is usually the best spot. Once you’ve found a location, take the end of the anchor line and tie it securely to the kayak. Make sure that the knot is tight and will not come undone easily.
• Next, you’ll need to attach the other end of the anchor line to the anchor itself. The anchor line should be attached to the anchor in such a way that it will not slide up or down the anchor line. If you’re using a handheld anchor, then you’ll want to tie a bowline knot around the end of the anchor line. 

Step 2: Attach a float to the line

Another major task in anchoring a kayak is, to learn how to attach a float to the line.

This is important for two reasons: safety and buoyancy . By attaching a float to the line, you’ll be able to keep track of your kayak if it starts to drift away and it will also help keep your kayak afloat if it capsizes. Here’s how to do it:

1. Start by threading the line through the hole in the float.

2. Then, tie a knot at the end of the line, making sure that it’s secure but not too tight.

3. Next, take the other end of the line and tie it around the base of your kayak’s seat. Make sure that this knot is also secure but not too tight.

4. Finally, check and adjust the length of your line to make sure that your kayak floats at a good level in the water. If it’s too low, you may find yourself dragging it to the bottom. 

Step 3: Choose the anchoring location for hitting

When choosing an anchoring location , always take into account the depth of the water and make sure there is enough line to reach the bottom.

In general, it is best to choose an area with a sandy or muddy bottom , as this will provide more holding power for the anchor. If you are unsure about the bottom conditions, it is better to err on the side of caution and choose a spot with a deeper depth.

Step 4: Anchor dropping

Now simply drop the anchor into the water and let it sink to the bottom. This method is quick and easy, but it can be difficult to retrieve the anchor if it gets stuck on something underwater. 

Important is that You have to leave the line gradually . You will notice the reeling will close after the anchor will reach under the water.

Step 5: Tie off the anchor line

The final step in securing your kayak is to tie off the anchor line. This will ensure that your kayak does not drift away from its intended location.

There are a few different ways to tie off the anchor line, but the most common is to use a figure-eight knot . This knot is easy to tie and is very secure.

Once you have tied off the anchor line , you can be confident that your kayak will stay put. This will allow you to relax and enjoy your time on the water without worry. So, take a deep breath and enjoy the peace of being out on the open water.

ANTI-SNAG ANCHOR SETUPS

Anchor weak-link method.

The best way to avoid snagging your anchor is to use the weak-link method. This involves attaching a length of rope or chain to your anchor that is much weaker than the rest of your setup.

That way, if your anchor gets snagged, it will break before the rest of your gear does.

There are a few different ways to set up a weak link.

• One popular method is to use a length of rope that is about one-third the breaking strength of your main line.
• Another option is to use a chain that is about half the size of your primary rope.

Whichever method you choose, make sure that your weak link is strong enough to hold your boat in place in calm conditions, but not so strong that it won’t break if things get rough.

Anchor Trip-Link Method

There are many ways to avoid having your anchor snag on the bottom while you are retrieving it. 

This method is to use an anchor trip link. This is a length of line or chain attached to the crown of the anchor, with a buoy or float attached to the end. When the anchor snags , the float pops up and marks the location so you can retrieve it easily.

Anchor Bridle Method

Another method is known as the anchor bridle method.

To rig an anchor bridle, start by tying a loop in one end of your line. Then, thread the other end of the line through the loop to form a second loop. Next, tie another loop in the line about two feet above the first loop.

Finally, thread the third loop through both of the other loops and cinch it tight.

This setup will allow your anchor to ride up off the bottom and reduce the chances of snagging. It’s also a good idea to use a heavier weight than you would normally use when fishing with this setup so that your anchor stays put in deeper water or in stronger currents.

METHODS OF ANCHORING A KAYAK

There are some popular methods I use for anchoring a kayak.

QUICK-RELEASE KAYAK ANCHORING

A new quick-release kayak anchoring method has been developed that is said to be much easier and faster than traditional methods. The new system uses a quick-release clip that attaches to the kayak and a stake that is driven into the ground.

To use the new system , simply drive the stake into the ground at the desired location and attach the quick-release clip to the kayak. The clip will hold the kayak in place while you get in and out of it. When you’re ready to move to another location, simply release the clip and pull up the stake.

The new system is said to be much easier and faster than traditional methods, which can often be difficult to set up and take down. It’s also said to be more secure, as there’s no need to worry about tying knots or losing your anchor .

SIMPLE & DIRECT KAYAK ANCHORING

One thing that’s always important is finding the best anchoring method for your kayak. The SIMPLE & DIRECT KAYAK ANCHORING  is one of the most popular methods for fishing kayaks because it’s easy to set up and doesn’t take up a lot of space on your kayak.

Here’s how the SIMPLE & DIRECT KAYAK ANCHORING method works:

1. Attach one end of your anchor line to your kayak’s stern cleat.

2. Run the other end of the line through the eyelet at the top of your anchor, and then tie it off to a bow cleat.

3. Drop the anchor into the water and make sure it’s snug against the kayak.

4. Clip your kayak’s anchor line to one of your anchor line holders, or tie it off under a bungee cord. 

FAQs | How To Attach An Anchor To A Kayak

Q. why would i need an anchor for my kayak.

An anchor can help keep your kayak in place in windy or choppy conditions, allowing you to focus on fishing or enjoying the scenery without drifting away.

Q. What kind of anchor should I use?

The type of anchor you choose will depend on the size and weight of your kayak, as well as the conditions you’ll be using it in. Some popular options include folding anchors, fluke anchors, and mushroom anchors.

Q. How do I attach the anchor to my kayak?

There are a few different methods for attaching an anchor to a kayak, including using a dedicated anchor trolley system or simply tying it off to a cleat or loop on your kayak. The key is to make sure the anchor is securely attached and won’t come loose.

How do I know how much anchor line to use?

As A General Rule, You’ll Want To Use About Seven To Ten Times The Depth Of The Water You’ll Be Anchoring In. For Example, If You’re In Ten Feet Of Water, You’ll Want To Use Between 70 And 100 Feet Of Anchor Line.

Are there any safety considerations when using an anchor with a kayak?

Yes, it’s important to be mindful of your surroundings and ensure that your anchor won’t drag and cause you to capsize or get tangled in underwater hazards. It’s also a good idea to carry a knife or other cutting tool in case you need to quickly cut the anchor line in an emergency.

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• Kayak Anchor Systems: Choices and Installation Tips for Stability

Disclosure: I am compensated for purchases made through some links on this site. Click for details .

When kayaking, stability can be as important as mobility, especially for anglers and photographers who require steadiness in diverse water conditions. Kayak anchor systems are designed to provide this stability by securing the vessel in a desired position against wind or current. These systems come in various types, such as grapnel anchors, stakeout poles, and trolley systems, each suiting different environments and purposes.

Choosing the correct kayak anchor system is essential based on the water body’s nature – moving or still, shallow or deep. Factors such as the kayak’s size, the bottom conditions, and the ease of deployment and retrieval of the anchor need to be considered. Proper setup of the anchor system ensures not only the kayaker’s convenience but also their safety, enhancing the overall experience on the water.

Maintenance of the kayak anchor system contributes to its durability and reliability. Routine checks and cleaning can prevent malfunctions and rust, preserving its functionality. Meanwhile, following safety precautions and best practices is crucial for preventing accidents and ensuring a beneficial kayaking adventure.

Table of Contents

Key Takeaways

• Kayak anchor systems are critical for maintaining stability in various water conditions.
• Selecting and setting up the right anchor system enhances safety and user experience.
• Regular maintenance and adherence to safety best practices ensure the longevity and reliability of the anchoring system.

Understanding Kayak Anchor Systems

Selecting an appropriate kayak anchor system is crucial for stability and safety on the water. A well-matched system allows kayakers to stay in the desired position despite varying conditions such as currents and winds.

Types of Kayak Anchors

Kayak anchors come in various designs, each suited to different environments. Grapnel anchors and claw anchors are versatile, with multiple prongs that grip rocky and weedy bottoms effectively. For muddy or sandy bottoms, mushroom anchors provide adequate holding power due to their wide-shaped base. In contrast, fluke anchors excel in windy conditions and soft seabeds due to their sharp flukes that dig in deeply. Moreover, for minimal impact, a stakeout pole can be used in shallow waters, while a drag chain may be preferred in areas with heavy plant matter to avoid snagging.

Selecting the Right Anchor for Conditions

The weight of the anchor is a primary consideration; heavier anchors secure kayaks in stronger currents and winds, while lighter ones are sufficient for calm waters. Generally, a ratio of 1 lb for every foot of kayak is recommended. Kayakers must also consider the bottom conditions—grapnel anchors hold well in rocky bottoms, whereas fluke anchors are better for sandy or muddy conditions. Adapting to environmental factors such as currents and winds is essential for a successful anchoring experience.

Anatomy of a Kayak Anchor System

An effective kayak anchor system comprises several components. The anchor line is pivotal—its length should typically be three times the depth of the water to allow for adequate scope. At the end of the line, the anchor connects via a shackle to a chain that serves as a weight to ensure the anchor falls properly and improves the anchor’s angle of pull. Lastly, accessories like buoys and anchor trolleys allow adjustments from the bow to the stern, enabling the kayaker to maintain the desired orientation in the face of shifting winds or currents.

Setting Up a Kayak Anchor System

When setting up a kayak anchor system, it is crucial to select the appropriate equipment and follow a precise installation procedure. Safety and convenience in anchoring depend on a well-configured system that allows for easy set and retrieval of the anchor.

Installing an Anchor Trolley

To install an anchor trolley on a fishing kayak, one must position a pulley system along the stern and bow. This setup includes proper attachment points fixed to the side of the kayak, ensuring that the trolley can glide smoothly from front to back. The YakGear Deluxe Anchor Trolley System features stainless steel hardware and a nylon pulley system, which are essential for durability in marine conditions.

Securing Anchors and Anchor Lines

For securing anchors, a variety of equipment such as a grapnel anchor can be utilized, which is effective for most seabeds. The anchor line, typically made of nylon, should be attached to the anchor and neatly stored in a nylon storage bag when not in use. An anchor line should be at least three to seven times the depth of the water to ensure stability and should be easily retrievable to allow quick relocation.

Advanced Techniques: Drift Chutes and Socks

In windy conditions or strong currents, anglers might opt for advanced techniques using drift chutes or drift socks. These devices slow down the kayak’s drift and provide better control over its position. Specifically designed for use in windy conditions or currents, they complement the anchor system by allowing for more precise positioning without the need for constant anchor repositioning.

Anchor Systems for Fishing Kayaks

Selecting the proper anchor system for a fishing kayak is crucial for stability and safety. The right system will accommodate various water conditions and types of fishing, ensuring efficiency and convenience.

Choosing Anchors for Kayak Fishing

When choosing an anchor for kayak fishing, the environment is a crucial factor. Mushroom anchors are ideal for soft, muddy bottoms where they can create sufficient suction. For rockier areas, kayak anglers might prefer a folding grapnel anchor that can lock onto structures. Size and weight also matter; a lightweight anchor is essential for a fishing kayak to maintain ease of movement and manageability.

Maximizing Efficiency While Anchoring

Efficiency in anchoring comes down to controlling the kayak’s position. An anchor trolley system allows anglers to adjust the anchor point from bow to stern, changing direction with the current or wind. For those who frequent shallow waters, a stakeout pole can quickly secure the kayak with minimal disruption. Powered anchoring systems like the Power-Pole Micro can be a game-changer, enabling instantaneous anchoring with the press of a button.

Convenience Features and Add-Ons

Convenience features can significantly enhance the anchoring experience. A popular add-on, the Anchor Wizard, allows for easy deployment and retrieval with a simple reel system, preventing any untidy lines on deck. Also, anchoring systems with a quick release facilitate immediate disconnection, which is vital for safety in swift currents. Additional accessories like floating markers or anchor line buoys add a layer of functionality and convenience to the anchor system setup.

Maintenance and Storage

Maintaining a kayak anchor system is essential for ensuring its longevity and functionality. Proper storage solutions are equally important to prevent damage and corrosion.

Caring for Your Kayak Anchor System

Regular cleaning is crucial for an anchor system, especially if it is made of stainless steel, which can be prone to corrosion. After each use, one should rinse the anchor with fresh water to remove salt, sand, and other debris. Additionally, inspecting the anchor for any signs of wear or damage should be part of a routine maintenance schedule.

Proper Storage Solutions

When storing an anchor system, it is advisable to dry it thoroughly to prevent rust and corrosion. A nylon storage bag is beneficial for keeping the anchor clean and organized, and it makes the system easy to store. The design of many kayak anchor systems typically prioritizes being compact and easy to handle, which aids in finding suitable storage solutions.

Safety Precautions and Best Practices

When kayaking, maintaining safety is paramount and requires adherence to proven best practices, particularly in anchoring. It is essential to ensure the secure placement of anchors and to react adeptly to environmental shifts.

Anchoring Safely in Various Water Bodies

In shallow waters, kayakers should use anchors suited to the bottom composition, such as a grapnel anchor, to prevent drift due to wind or currents. Best practices include a cautious approach in windy conditions to avert the kayak from capsizing. They should also be mindful of underwater hazards that might not be visible from the surface to maintain safety.

Responding to Quick Changes in the Environment

Kayakers must be prepared to react to sudden changes such as increasing wind speeds or strong currents. Quick adjustments to the anchor line length can help stabilize the kayak. Additionally, they should always have a clear plan to safely detach from the anchor system if conditions dictate an immediate need to move.

Accessory Reviews and Recommendations

Selecting the right anchoring system for a kayak is crucial for stability and safety. This section reviews popular systems and assesses their quality and versatility to help kayakers make informed decisions.

Popular Kayak Anchoring Systems and Tools

The market offers a variety of anchoring systems designed for the needs of kayakers. The YakAttack LeverLoc Anchor Trolley boasts a unique locking mechanism and smooth pulleys, making it a favored choice for its intuitive design and ease of use. Another widely used option is the Extreme Max 3006.6548 BoatTector Folding Grapnel Anchor , which is recognized for its compact size and effectiveness, especially for kayak fishing. For anglers looking for impeccable hold and precise positioning, the Power-Pole Micro Anchor holds a top spot in terms of advanced technology and reliable performance on the water.

Assessing Quality and Versatility

When reviewing kayak anchors, attention to material quality and functional versatility is paramount. The Best Marine Kayak Anchor is renowned for its galvanized iron construction, ensuring durability and resistance to corrosion in diverse aquatic environments. In terms of versatility, the Anchor Wizard offers an innovative hand winch design, allowing for quick deployment and retrieval which is particularly useful in river settings with rocks and wood. Kayak equipment must provide both security and ease of use, and versatile designs like the YakGear Deluxe Anchor Trolley System deliver on this by accommodating various anchoring situations with its customizable setup.

Choosing the right kayak anchor system is crucial for safe and enjoyable water expeditions. They provide stability and control, with manual systems being the most widely used due to simplicity, whereas mechanical systems offer ease of deployment. Anglers and enthusiasts should ensure that their selection caters to their specific needs, considering factors such as water conditions, kayak type, and anchoring environment.

Anchor trolleys are incredibly beneficial, giving users the flexibility to adjust their kayak’s position relative to the wind or current. This feature is highlighted as especially helpful in windy conditions , showcasing the importance of adaptability in anchor systems. For those prioritizing quiet and spot-on stability for pursuits like fishing or bird-watching, selecting an appropriate anchor, such as one from a curated list of top systems , becomes indispensable.

Incorporating this information, one can make an informed decision when investing in a kayak anchor system, thereby enhancing their on-water experience. Individuals are advised to always prepare for varying conditions and to equip their kayaks with a reliable anchoring setup. As every adventurer’s needs are unique, investing time in understanding the nuances of different anchor types and systems is not just recommended, but essential for maximizing their time on the water.

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Anchor System For Kayak (A Beginner’s Guide)

As a beginner, it is hard to know what kind of anchor system you need for your kayak. Do you need an anchor trolley? How do you attach an anchor to your kayak? What are the different types of anchors?

In this blog post, I will answer all these questions and more. I will give you a beginner’s guide to the kayak anchor system. I’ll explain how to choose the best anchor system for your kayak and what you need to know to do so.

So continue reading if you’re a newbie and want to understand more about the kayak anchor system.

Key Takeaways

• Anchor systems are important for keeping your kayak in place while fishing or enjoying other activities.
• There are a variety of anchor systems available on the market, so it is important to choose one that is right for your kayak and your needs.
• The most popular type of anchor system is the stake-out pole, which can be used in shallow and deep water.
• Another popular option is the sand anchor, which is great for use in shallow water and sandy bottom areas.
• Finally, the weight anchor is a good choice for deeper water applications.

What Is An Anchor System For Kayak?

Anchoring a kayak can be a daunting task, but it can be easily accomplished with the right anchor system. Many types of anchors are available on the market, but not all are created equal.

• Size and weight are two important considerations when selecting an anchor system for a kayak. The larger and heavier the anchor, the more difficult it will be to set and retrieve.
• However, a heavier anchor will provide more holding power. Choose a compact and lightweight anchor for easy storage and transport but still large enough to provide adequate holding power.
• Another important consideration is material . Anchors made from stainless steel or aluminum alloy are durable and corrosion-resistant.
• Nylon anchors are lightweight and easy to store, but they may not have the same holding power as heavier metals. PVC anchors are another option but are not as durable as metal anchors.
• When choosing an anchor line, look for one made from nylon or polypropylene rope . These materials are strong and resistant to abrasion.

The line length should be at least twice the depth of the water you will anchor. A carabiner or pulley can be used to attach the line to your kayak.

The best way to secure your kayak is with an anchor trolley kit. You can do this without leaving your kayak and changing the direction of your anchor line. 

The Anchor System For A Kayak Must Be Secure And Reliable

Your anchoring system must be secure and reliable when you’re out on the water. Even if you are just sitting in your kayak and not surfing or fishing, the anchor must hold your kayak in place in all conditions.

Whether it’s a rocking boat or choppy water, an unreliable anchor system can cause damage to your boat as well as any other equipment that may be attached to it.

It’s also important that an anchor system doesn’t damage the environment around you. You don’t want to try to camp on someone else’s beach and accidentally leave trash behind or damage their property.

The easiest method to guarantee a successful voyage is to choose an anchoring system that is simple to set up and take down, allowing you to focus on having fun instead of worrying about whether your gear is safe from harm.

It Must Be Easy To Set Up And Take Down

An anchor system must be easy to set up and take down. This is crucial since you don’t want to risk damaging your kayak or your fishing gear by wasting time in difficult weather conditions dealing with your anchor system.

A good anchoring system should have a Quick-Release line so that it can easily be disconnected if necessary. This way, you won’t find yourself stranded on the water if something goes wrong while setting up your anchor system.

The best anchor system for kayaking should be easy to use, store and transport. It should also be easy to set up and take down in all conditions.

The Anchor System Should Be Able To Hold The Kayak In Place In All Conditions

You might think your kayak is a delicate boat, but it’s quite sturdy, and you can use the anchor to keep it in place even in strong waves.

The anchor system should be able to hold the kayak in all conditions.

When choosing an anchor system for your kayak, you should look for one that can be used in all conditions: windy weather, rough seas and strong currents.

Choosing a straightforward design with no intricate attachments or parts is an excellent approach to guarantee this.

The Anchor Should Not Damage The Kayak Or The Environment

An anchor system should not damage the kayak or the environment. This means you need to choose an anchor system made from durable materials and has safe construction features.

For example, choosing an anchor system with a Midsize line reduces weight. It improves buoyancy so it can handle stronger ocean currents.

To avoid doing this, you should avoid rocks and sand (which can damage your hull), coral or other delicate marine life (which may be damaged and/or killed), damaging the kayak or the environment (which will damage your boat) and damaging other boats or people (which could cause a tragic accident).

The Anchor System Should Be Affordable And Easy To Use

When choosing an anchor system for kayaking, it’s important to find one that fits your needs.

• Cost: The cost of the anchor system should be reasonable. If the cost is too high, you may have trouble affording it in the future. If the cost is excessively cheap, though, there can be a problem.
• Ease of use: An easy-to-use anchor system will make your life much easier when it comes time to set up camp or go on an adventure! If you can’t figure out how to use your new gear immediately, then maybe you should consider looking at another option.
• Reliability: When choosing an anchor system for kayaking purposes (or any other kind), reliability is essential because if something breaks down during a trip, everything will stop moving forward until repairs are made. This would not be ideal when trying out new things like kayaking. So take extra care when shopping for these products online because sometimes what looks good online doesn’t always translate into reality.

Why Do You Need A Kayak Anchor System?

In the ocean, the force of water is strong and unforgiving. In the ocean, a kayak can be used in a variety of ways. You may want to explore underwater caves or fish along the shoreline.

However, there are also times when you want to keep your kayak in one place so that nothing drags it out into open waters.

This is when you need to attach an anchor system to your kayak’s hull and ensure it stays stationary until you’re ready for another adventure.

How To Use A Kayak Anchor System?

Attaching the anchor to your kayak can be tricky, but it’s not impossible. Finding a spot in the water that is deep enough for you to drop the anchor is the first thing you should do.

For example, “As soon as I realized how much I loved my new kayak, I wanted to ensure it was safe from danger.”

Once you’ve found this spot, there are two different ways of attaching an anchor system: attaching it directly to yourself or attaching it somewhere on your boat.

Attaching directly onto yourself seems like an easy solution; however, the weight distribution on small boats (like kayaks) can cause some problems with balance and control.

Suppose this happens while using a paddle float between paddles during heavy winds or currents. The one holding onto both ends will hold all four together. At the same time, they try not to drag each other down into deeper waters due to either current strength or wind direction.

Best Places To Use Your Kayak Anchor

The best place to use your kayak anchor is in the middle of a lake, surrounded by pine trees and crickets. The lake is calm and quiet, and you see nothing but clear blue skies hovering above your head as you look around.

The air around you smells like freshly cut grass and flowers. In front of you sits a table with two glasses filled with iced tea—one for yourself and one for a friend who has joined you on this special occasion.

You’ve invited them because they are friends and because today is National Friendship Day (don’t worry if it isn’t; any day can be National Friendship Day).

As these two friends sit together enjoying their drinks, they begin discussing their favorite things about each other: how funny one friend is when she tells stories; how kind another friend always seems.

How To Choose The Right Kayak Anchor System?

Choosing the right anchor system means choosing one appropriate for the water you will be using it in.

Check the waters where you will be kayaking, or if you have no choice but to use your anchor in a different type of water than expected, read through this guide and do extra research before deciding on any particular system.

Also, consider whether or not your boat has enough room for placing an anchor system on board; if there isn’t any space available, then perhaps the best option would be getting a more portable version of what’s needed rather than trying to fit something bulky into your small kayak.

Finally (and most importantly), make sure that whatever type of anchor system you choose matches what kind of kayak owner/boater YOU are.

Maybe some people like being outdoors all day, so they don’t mind bringing extra equipment such as tent poles; however, others prefer having smaller items since they’re worried about weight limits when traveling.

If you’re in the market for an anchor system for your kayak, you should keep a few things in mind. Consider the size and weight of the anchor. 

Think about the type of bottom you’ll be anchoring in most often. Third, decide what kind of deployment system you prefer. And finally, choose a system that’s compatible with your kayak model.

We hope this article has helped guide your decision-making process. Be sure to check out our other articles for more great tips and advice. And don’t forget to stay tuned for updates on our website and other social media channels.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it safe to use a rope when kayaking with an anchor system.

There is no definitive answer; it depends on the anchor system, water conditions, kayak design and user skills. Always consult a professional or owner’s manual for specific instructions before using any anchor system.

Can I use an anchoring device other than anchors when kayaking with an anchor system?

Many kayakers anchor using various devices, such as boating knots or line anchors. However, consult a professional or owner’s manual for specific instructions before using these devices.

What are some common uses for an anchor system?

An anchor system can be used for various purposes, including anchoring to a dock, rock or sand bottom, fishing kayak and SUP.

How do I properly add an anchor to my kayak?

Before anchoring, be sure to check the kayak manufacturer’s instructions. Generally, you’ll want to tie a line anchor directly onto the vessel or into an eye on the line anchor.

• Fishing Tips

How To Rig A Kayak Grapnel “Grapple” Anchor Like A Pro [VIDEO]

• By: Tony Acevedo
• on December 14, 2016
• Found In: Fishing Tips , Kayak Fishing , Product Reviews

• Comments (14)

It’s the worst feeling…

You begin pulling on the anchor line to retrieve your anchor but it won’t move.

Regardless if you are moving to a new spot, pulling anchor to get away from a storm, or just heading in for the day, there is nothing worse that an anchor that is stuck to the bottom.

Especially if you are in a kayak out fishing by yourself.

Regarding kayaks, one of the most popular anchors for a kayak is the grapnel anchor (pronounced “grapple anchor”).

Grapnel anchors are perfect for kayakers because they fold up nicely (see above pic), they aren’t very expensive, and they work incredibly well.

But what we’ve seen is that many kayak anglers aren’t using them correctly.

Check out the video below to see the two different tips on maximizing the use of your grapnel anchor:

• Tying your anchor rope to the bottom while using a zip-tie as a breakaway mechanism in case your anchor ever gets stuck
• Having a buoy plus breakaway rope in case you need to chase down a big fish and don’t want to lose your spot

Note: As anglers, we have a duty to keep our waters clean so only use the breakaway method when you are 100% stuck. The last thing we need is a bunch of zip-ties scattered all over the ocean floor (but we also don’t need a bunch of anchors on the ocean floor either).

Kayak Grapnel Anchor Trick

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As you saw in the video, you can easily rig your grapnel anchor into a breakaway anchor with nothing but a zip tie.

Note: We have also used light monofilament fishing line instead of a zip tie (best to use under 10lbs so it breaks without you flipping over your kayak).

You can also hold on to your spot with the use of a small buoy and a breakaway line.

Do you have any cool kayak anchoring tips?

Let us know in the comments.

Related Post: “Cool Trick To Stand Up Fish From Your Kayak Without Spooking The Fish” (watch it here now)

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• Fishing Tips , Kayak Fishing , Product Reviews

Tony, what size (weight) grapnel anchor do you recommend? I have a 13’ kayak and live in windy Corpus Christi.

I use a 3lb. If you have trouble with that style anchor you may want to try a “plow” style anchor.

This tip about 6 months ago would have saved me a few bucks! You don’t know what you don’t know until you need to know it I guess. Going to re-rig my anchors in the A.M., thanks for yet another helpful tip! Also good looking out on the double tie trick to keep the plastic out of the water. Loving the community.

Glad it can help, Josh! Thank you for the great feedback!

Nice short and way helpful.

Thank you for the great feedback!

I have a question about the sliding “cuff” part that you turn to lock in to place once the anchor is open. If the cuff gets locked down (instead of letting it slide freely), then won’t it be difficult or hard to free the anchor after the zip tie breaks? It seems to me that the points would still stay open and not fold back up as you tried to free it. I’m just trying to think this through. Thanks, guys!

Once the zip tie has broken, it allows you to pull the anchor from the bottom, so the arms of the anchor don’t necessarily have to close to get it free. Just the act of pulling the anchor from the bottom as opposed to the top allows it to come free. Same concept as if you were trying to pull a hook out of something. You can pull all you want from the eye of the hook and it won’t come free, but if you were to pull from the bottom (or the curve) of the hook, it would come out.

The problem with your idea is that you’re leaving the zip tie in our waterways and the pieces of monofilament I will post some pictures coming up of the proper way without littering our waterways. Should have went down further I seen Michael Eggers post I’m with you

Yep Michael makes a great point. You can use a larger zip tie to hold the smaller one on either to the rope or the anchor itself. Thanks for the feedback Sean!

You can use a heavier zip tie to hold the break away zip tie to the anchor. That way it stays with the anchor not in the water. 😉

Great tip Michael!

Great idea, thanks for the tip..

Great tip on using the zip tie… I’ve had to break a few in the past!! & i always keep an extra bundle of them in my tackle bag!

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anchor trip link

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was thinking about an anchor trip link but not sure how big a cable tie to use for a 15ft dell quay euro can anyone advice please?  

I use one of these. http://www.anchortrip.co.uk/ Check out the video  

did see them £12.99 on ebay but then cable ties are £1 or 2 for loads of them and they come in handy for other things and its not often i got my anchor stuck as its mostly sandy where i fish  

my mate makes the above trip links. got one on my cat and it works a treat. better than cable ties all day long. very simple to fit and set up and once fitted if it trips its just a matter of undoing the quick link and putting the trip link back in and then do up the quick link. i know its not to every ones taste but he's selling them world wide now and they are proving very popular especially the kayak version.  

Depends whether you rig the anchor to trip with the chain tight to the stock or slack. If tight, one medium cable tie will do as it it not taking any strain. If slack (my preferred method) I would use two turns of crab line which is stronger as it is holding the boat, but it will break out of anything even round a cable, whereas the first method won't and you will lose the anchor  

I wonder if it's possible for the OP to limit that Bass Gif to one posting per thread.? It's one of the most irritating things on the internet.  

I use two 7mm cables ties with the chain slack. Works in the Bristol Channel on a 5.6m boat.  

conger666 said: I use two 7mm cables ties with the chain slack. Works in the Bristol Channel on a 5.6m boat. Click to expand...

No two ties, leave about two or three slack links of chain before using the cables. Works for me in the Channel. 6 metres of 8mm chain seems to do the trick.  

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7 Best Kayak Anchors (2023 Reviews and Guide)

Choosing the best kayak anchor can be a challenge. Many options are available, and it can be hard to determine which will be best for you.

This post will go over some of the most popular kayak anchors on the market and what they offer that makes them unique. We’ll also provide some tips on how to find your ideal anchor!

When you find the perfect fishing spot , you want to stay there as long as possible and catch as many fish as possible. You don’t want to drift away, put your fishing rod down and paddle back through your fishing hole.

A kayak anchor is ideal for helping you catch more fish when you find the right spot!

The best kayak fishing anchor is the one that will work for your setup. There are many types of anchors, all with pros and cons. We will review all of this to find the right kayak anchor for your fishing needs.

In a hurry? Here’s our top pick.

Best Kayak Anchor Reviews

As we mentioned, choosing the perfect kayak anchor is difficult, but it doesn’t have to be.

Let’s go over some of the most popular anchors on the market, along with what they offer that makes them special.

Best Marine Kayak Anchor

• Versatility: Perfect for a kayak, paddleboard, canoe or jet ski
• Galvanized Iron: Protection in both saltwater and freshwater
• 40ft Rope: Longer rope allows for increased horizontal drag
• Shackle: Attach rope or chain to either end of your anchor
• Storage Bag: Keeps components organized & prevents scratches

The Best Marine kayak anchor is made from galvanized iron, which is rust-resistant and durable.  The anchor weighs 3.5 pounds and folds up, so it can easily be stored on your kayak. 

The anchor is easy to use and comes with a 40-foot rope, a nylon storage bag, a buoy ball, and a carabiner clip. It’s easy to toss overboard and will keep your kayak firmly in place.

To use the anchor, slide the collar up, open the flukes, slide the collar back down, and toss the anchor overboard.

You can use this with an anchor trolley or a drag anchor if you are drifting. Be careful around rock jetties because they catch everything, including kayak anchors. 

• Easy to use
• Easy to store
• Rust resistant
• The rope isn’t the best
• It might be heavy for specific applications

Gradient Fitness Marine Anchor

• 𝐅𝐎𝐋𝐃𝐈𝐍𝐆 𝐀𝐍𝐂𝐇𝐎𝐑: Our 3.5 lb 4-fluke folding...
• 𝐂𝐎𝐍𝐕𝐄𝐍𝐈𝐄𝐍𝐂𝐄: The fluke anchor folds into a 12” x...
• 𝐌𝐀𝐑𝐈𝐍𝐄 𝐆𝐑𝐀𝐃𝐄: The small boat anchor is rust...
• 𝐃𝐄𝐒𝐈𝐆𝐍𝐄𝐃 𝐅𝐎𝐑 𝐓𝐇𝐄...
• 𝐄𝐀𝐒𝐄 𝐎𝐅 𝐃𝐄𝐏𝐋𝐎𝐘𝐌𝐄𝐍𝐓 &...

This folding anchor from Gradient Fitness is compact and convenient. Weighing 3.5 pounds, you can easily store the anchor on your kayak and deploy it when needed.

The kayak anchor is designed to be rust-resistant and comes with 25 feet of rope. In addition, a flotation buoy (PVC), rope, stainless steel clip, and a carry bag are included. 

The clip can be used in various places on your kayak, so you can quickly move the anchor location on your boat. The grapnel anchor will grab onto many different environments, lakes, rivers, sandy, rocky, etc. 

As with most grapnel kayak anchors, it makes sense to tie the rope to the bottom of the anchor so you can break the anchor free if needed.  You can see the video towards the end of this article for more information.

The Gradient Fitness kayak anchor kit includes everything you need to drop your anchor. If you are in the market for one of the best kayak anchors available, this one should be on your list.

• Lightweight and durable
• Rust-resistant
• Easy to use clip for anchor placement
• The rope might not be long enough
• Saltwater can be rough on the anchor

Extreme Max 3006.6548 BoatTector Complete Grapnel Anchor Kit

• Complete PWC anchor kit includes 3.5 lb. anchor, 25' rope and snap hook, marker buoy...
• Anchor: Folding 3. 5 lb. grapnel anchor, ideally suited for use in coral, rocky, or...
• Rope: 25' hollow braid polythene rope with steel snap hook
• Marker Buoy: Durable marine-grade foam
• Storage Bag: Sturdy nylon storage bag with protective padding

The Extreme Max folding grapnel kayak anchor kit includes 25 feet of rope, a snap-on clip, a storage bag, and a marker buoy, everything you need to get started.

The 3.5-pound anchor is ideal for coral, rocky bottoms, or bottom areas with heavy vegetation.  The marker buoy is made from marine-grade foam and is made to last.

The snap clip is easy to use and allows you to attach the anchor to different points on your kayak.  You can combine this with an anchor trolley to hold you in place.

You can use this anchor on various watercraft, including kayaks, paddleboards, canoes, or other small watercraft.  The only thing you might need is more rope; 25 feet can run out quickly.

• Snap clip is easy to use
• It folds up for easy storage
• It comes with everything you need
• It can be used on various watercraft
• Rope length might not be enough
• It might require you to re-tie the rope to the bottom of the anchor

  Brocraft Kayak/Canoe Anchor Lock System

• Includes Brocraft Anchor lock system , Track Adapter,Not include anchor and Rope
• Designed to fit most brand kayak track systems
• Fiber-glass Injected Nylon construction,
• Quick release removable mounting system,360 degrees rotation
• aluminum Track and Anchor Not Include

The Brocraft kayak anchor kit is unique because it uses an existing track on your kayak as the attachment point.  Please note that the anchor is not included .  This anchor system is convenient if your kayak is set up for this already, and it’s a great addition.

The anchor pulley system has some pros and cons.  Pros are that you can quickly drop the anchor overboard and pull it back up and have a dedicated spot for your kayak anchor.

The cons are that you are somewhat limited with where you can attach your anchor since you are limited to the extent of your track system.

The Brocraft anchor lock system fits various track systems and has a quick-release mount and locking system. This allows you to quickly and easily lift and reposition the anchor as needed.

• Easy to set up with a track system
• Smooth pulley system
• Quick-release
• It does not come with a rope

YakGear Deluxe Anchor Trolley Kit

• Deluxe anchor trolley system with Harken pulleys
• Allows the bow of your vessel to turn in to the current for a smoother experience
• Mini zig zag cleat included to maintain stable positioning
• Installation instructions and hardware included
• Kit also includes 30-Feet of rope

An anchor trolley is excellent for helping you stay in position and keep the kayak pointed in the right direction. You want to stay there as long as possible when you find the fish.

The YakGear Deluxe anchor trolley kit installs quickly and easily.  It also slides easily to the front and back to get the perfect position or adjust your position as needed.

Once the anchor trolley is set, it’s easy to secure the anchor with the mini zig zag cleat on the side of your kayak.

The kayak anchor kit includes 30 feet of rope and has everything you need to have a functional anchor trolley on your kayak.  You can install this kit on either a sit-on-top or sit-inside kayak.

One thing to keep in mind is that you will have to install this on your kayak.  Be careful because the self-tapping screws will stick through the cockpit area, so choose your install location wisely.

YakGear is one of the best kayak anchors available.

• Simple and easy to use
• It comes with everything you need for a complete anchor trolley
• Works well to keep your kayak in place
• You have to drill holes in your yak

YakGear – YakStick Floating Stake-Out Stick – 6 Foot

• Floating Stake-Out Stick
• 6-foot stick weighs 22oz
• Anchor rope attachment molded in handle
• Made of rigid fiberglass with an oversized foam grip
• Handle and pick are made of nylon

One of the many benefits of kayak fishing is to fish in shallow water that other boats can’t get to. You can access marshes and flats that are home to great fishing!

With a Yakstick, you can be stealthy in your approach and find these feeding fish. Then, using the bottom of the waterway, you can use the YakStick to propel yourself into position.

If you have a stand-up kayak, you can see where the schools of fish areas you get in position; this is great for sight fishing.

You can then jam the YakStick into the sandy bottom, hook up your anchor trolley, and you’re set. The great thing about the YakStick is it floats. So you don’t have to worry about it sinking to the bottom.

The YakStick is made of fiberglass, so it’s durable and has an oversized foam grip. 

• Different lengths available
• Durable fiberglass construction
• No installation required
• You need to have an anchor trolley

OLIVIA & AIDEN 2 Pack Grapnel Anchor Kit

• ULTRA-PORTABLE BOAT ANCHOR – Ideal for small fishing Jon boats, kayaks and canoes,...
• IMPROVED STRENGTH AND HOLD – Crafted with galvanized steel this jet ski anchor...
• BUOY BALL AND DRAG LINE – Each canoe anchor also includes a 40ft grapnel anchor...
• MULTIPURPOSE PERSONAL USE – A compact, easy-to-store size, it works well for...
• SATISFACTION GUARANTEED - We take pride in our Olivia & Aiden Folding Dinghy Anchor....

This set is perfect if you are paddling with a partner and need two kayak anchors. Each anchor comes with a buoy ball, 40-foot dragline, carabiner clip, and a carry bag.

Each folding anchor weighs 3.5 pounds and is great for kayaks, paddleboards, canoes, and other small watercraft. The fluke is well-balanced and holds well to various surfaces and objects.

You may need to tie the rope to the bottom of the anchor using the zip-tie method described in the video below. This allows you to set the anchor free in case it gets stuck.

The carabiner clip allows you to attach the anchor where you want it on your kayak. So if you are looking for a two-pack of kayak anchors, check these out.

• Great for two paddlers or a tandem kayak
• Easy to use and durable
• The ropes could be stronger
• The bag tears easily

How to Choose the Best Kayak Anchor

Kayak fishing accessories are a must if you want to catch fish. There are many things to keep in mind when you are looking for the right kayak anchor. Things like, do you have enough space on your kayak? Does your kayak have the weight capacity for all your fishing gear, including an anchor?

Fortunately, there are many shapes, sizes, and designs of kayak anchors, many of which are lightweight.  Here are some tips to keep in mind when shopping for the ideal anchor.

Kayak Anchor Design

Kayak anchors have different types of designs, such as:

Some people resort to using a series of heavy-duty chains to adjust the weight as needed. 

Grapnel anchors are a popular design since this is a folding anchors with “wings” that open up. This will help the anchor stay in place in currents or when there is an uneven bottom surface.

One of the benefits of a grapnel kayak anchor is that they are relatively lightweight and easy to use. This combination makes the anchor ideal for storing on a kayak.

You may also find sand spikes or sandbag anchor systems that work well in certain situations. For example, a spike can work well to keep you in place if you are fishing in shallow water with a sandy bottom. 

A sandbag anchor is a dry bag that you use as an anchor. You can fill the bag with rocks, sand, or anything else you have handy. Then, squeeze the air out, roll the top down and snap the opening shut. Viola, an instant kayak anchor.

Kayak anchors come in various shapes and sizes, so check the specs before buying one. In addition, anchors for larger fishing vessels may not work well for smaller kayaks, so be sure to compare dimensions before purchasing.

With so many different shapes and sizes, choosing one that will work with your kayak is essential. The grapnel design is popular for kayaks because it holds well in currents or when the bottom surface has uneven terrain. However, one downside to this type of anchor is that they can be difficult to move once you get them securely set.

Kayaks Anchors Come In Various Shapes and Sizes

Kayak anchors come in many different shapes and sizes. It’s important to know what type of bottom surface you’ll be fishing on before choosing the perfect anchor. The wrong type of anchor will cause your boat to get stuck, and it could be difficult to remove!

Kayak Anchor Size

This is arguably the most critical part of choosing your perfect kayak anchor because it will determine where and what type of bottom surface you’ll be fishing on.

You must be mindful of the anchor size since your kayak has a weight limit . So, you need to factor in the weight of the kayak anchor into your gear. But, you also need the anchor to do its job, so this can be a delicate balance.

For example, if your kayak is small and lightweight, you’ll need a smaller anchor that can get buried into the bottom to keep your boat in place. 

On the other hand, if your kayak is larger or has a lot of weight, you’ll need an anchor with more pull power that can provide stability on all types of surfaces.

Choose the right size and shape for your needs. Look at the kayak’s dimensions and weight capacity before making a purchase.

This is arguably one of the most important parts when choosing your perfect anchor. Your vessel needs to support you and your kayak fishing gear, including the anchor.

Kayak Anchor Rode and Scope

A long scope will give you more room to move your kayak, but it will also make the anchor challenging to bring back on board. A shorter scope may be ideal for anglers who struggle with their kayak tipping over because it will provide a short trip to retrieve the anchor.

It’s also important to choose a rode that is made from high-quality materials. The weakest part of your setup is the rope, and this is most likely what will snap before your anchor does.

Some people might worry about nylon ropes being susceptible to UV rays, so they recommend polyester ropes instead.

Choosing an anchor with enough pulling power for your type of kayak and fishing preferences is essential. A long scope will give you more room to move your boat, but it also makes the anchor hard to retrieve. On the other hand, a shorter scope provides a short trip when retrieving an anchor.

Weight vs. Seating

Every kayak fishing anchor has weight and seating requirements which should also be considered before purchase, as these are fundamental to how well the anchor will hold your kayak in place.

For example, if you have a small kayak and use an anchor with high weight requirements, it’ll be difficult for the anchor to stay buried in the bottom surface. The same thing can happen when there is too much seating depth which will cause your kayak to break free from its hold on the ground.

Kayak Anchor Storage

One of the most critical parts when choosing your perfect anchor is storage.  It’s important to ensure you have enough room for your kayak’s anchor and any other gear.

For example, if you’re using a grapnel style of anchor, it can take up much more room than an egg-shaped one. Grapnel anchors are usually longer and heavier, so storing them in the wrong spot on your boat could cause damage.

How to Mount a Kayak Fishing Anchor

To mount your kayak fishing anchor securely on your kayak, you’ll need to tie the anchor directly to a part of the boat. One popular place is near the front or back of the kayak so that you can access it in an emergency.

If your anchor has a long chain, it can be secured by tying it around one of the other objects on board, such as a fishing pole or a life preserver. Make sure that it’s secure and won’t move around when casting off.

Kayak Anchor Trolley

A kayak anchor trolley is a pulley system that lets you adjust your kayak whenever necessary, whether the wind or current has shifted it. A strap is attached to the kayak, and the anchor line can be pulled along with the boat.

When it’s not in use, the chain and anchor are stored inside of the trolley so that they’re safe and protected. This allows you to have your hands completely free while fishing, rather than having to constantly hold on to your anchor or tie it securely to your kayak.

To install a kayak anchor trolley, you must attach your harness straps around both sides of the front or back of your kayak. This way, when you cast off, your anchor will be anchored from the beginning and won’t slip away when set up.

The rest of the process is simple. You’ll tie your anchor to one side of the trolley and pull it along while fishing. Then, when there’s no need for it, store it in its designated spot until next time!

How to Remove a Stuck Kayak Anchor

What happens if your anchor gets stuck on a rock, tree, or obstacle? First, for safety reasons, you must break your kayak free from the anchor or get the anchor unstuck.

Most grapnel anchors come with a rope attached to the top of the anchor, which is great until you get stuck.  Fortunately, these anchors also come with (or should come with) a point on the bottom of the anchor where you can attach the rope.

Many kayak anglers remove the rope from the top of the anchor and reattach the rope to the bottom.  Then, run the rope up the side of the anchor to the top eye and zip-tie it there. 

A good hard tug should break the rope free from the top of the anchor and allow you to pull the anchor away from rocks, etc., from the bottom.

Check out this video for more info.

You should be prepared to cut the rope and forget about your anchor if all else fails.  Hopefully, that doesn’t happen, but it might be necessary.

FAQ’s

How heavy should a kayak anchor be.

Many kayak anglers prefer a grapnel anchor that weighs between 1.5-3.5 pounds. Grapnel anchors fold and are easy to store. This size is great for lakes, slow-moving rivers, and general calm conditions. If you paddle waterways with strong currents or wind, you will want a heavier anchor.

Do I Need a Kayak Anchor?

Well, it depends. If you fish in deeper water, you might need an anchor to hold you in place. Or if you fish in windy conditions or water with a current, an anchor can come in very handy.

Hopefully, this article has helped you find the perfect kayak anchor to fit your needs. Choosing a kayak anchor can be difficult, but it’s important to think about the different features of each one and how they will affect your fishing experience.

For example, if you need an easy way to pull up anchors from deep water, a grapnel style may work best for you. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a more versatile anchor that offers quick storage when not in use, we recommend using a trolley system.

Let me know if you have any questions or comments below.

Best Kayak Anchor for Fishing: Top Picks Rated and Reviewed [2023 Edition]

After hours of testing and holding our own against currents and winds, we chose the Gradient Fitness 3.5 lb Grapnel Anchor as the best kayak anchor.

This is our roundup of the best kayak anchors on the market today. We evaluated and analyzed different models based on their functionality, rust resistance, and ease of use to make your choice easier. Over the years, we’ve tested a number of kayak anchor models so you don’t have to.

We’ll look at all the various anchor types, what to consider when shopping for an anchor, how to rig an anchor to your kayak, and more. I’ll also share a list of the best kayak anchors around so you can find the perfect option for your fishing trips.

An anchor is a small (and mostly inexpensive) addition to your kayak, but if you’re an angler looking to make the most of an epic fishing spot, it’s one you’ll definitely want!

As an affiliate of Amazon and other retailers, we may earn a small commission when you buy via our links, at no additional cost to you. Thank you!

Quick Answer: The Best Kayak Anchors for You

Don’t have time to read the whole article? No worries! Take a look at our condensed list to find the best choice for your specific needs:

Best Overall: Gradient Fitness 3.5 lb Grapnel Anchor

Most durable: extreme max complete grapnel anchor kit, most user-friendly: best premium 3.5lb folding kayak anchor, best bruce anchor: cooper anchor 1kg/2.2lb nylon plow anchor, best mushroom anchor: yakgear 5lb mushroom anchor.

• Best Sandbag: CALPALMY 2-in-1 Sand Anchor

Best Stakeout Pole: YakAttack ParkNPole Stakeout Pole

Best drift sock: mythik lures drift master drift sock.

• Best Budget: Seachoice Folding Grapnel Anchor

Comparison Table: Best Kayak Anchors

Top-rated kayak anchors.

Weight:   3.5 lbs. (1.58 kg) Material: Stainless steel Anchor Line: 25′ (7.62 m)

This four-flute folding grapnel anchor is ultra-durable, heavy enough to secure your kayak even against high winds and choppy waters, and built for both professional and casual fishermen. When folded up, it’s just 3” wide and 12” long and slides easily into the provided storage bag. But when deployed, the curving hooks will dig into the river/lake bed and secure you firmly in place.

The stainless steel anchor is finished with a marine-grade rust-resistant coating. Also included are a 25-foot length of highly visible green-and-black rope and an anchor buoy. 

• Great for muddy, weedy, sandy, and rocky conditions
• Includes storage bag and straps to secure it to kayak or SUP
• Highly visible green anchor
• Durable, rust-resistant, and long-lasting
• Anchor line is very short
• Not recommended for saltwater use

Weight: 3.3 lbs. (1.36 kg) Material: Galvanized, powder-coated steel Anchor Line: 25′ (7.62 m)

Drop this bright red grapnel anchor into any water, and it will be highly visible to fellow boaters and swimmers. The powder-coated galvanized steel attracts the eye, but it’s also highly resistant to rust and corrosion.

The four-fluke grapnel anchor is easy to deploy and retrieve (thanks to the attached marine-grade foam anchor buoy), and though it’s not the heaviest of the grapnel anchors on our list, it weighs enough to secure you against currents and high winds.

Sadly, the anchor line is a bit short (just 25-feet) and prone to fraying and damage. You’ll want to replace the rope immediately for something longer and sturdier. But the anchor itself is designed to last you for years to come—well deserving of its title as the “most durable” kayak anchor on our list!

• Sturdy, easily-deployed grapnel anchor
• Top-notch hold performance even on rocky riverbeds
• Brightly colored and easily visible
• Very affordable
• Accompanying anchor line is too short and prone to wear
• Best-suited to shallow waters and minimal currents

Weight: 3.5 lbs. (1.58 kg) Material: Galvanized iron Anchor Line: 40′ (12.2 m)

Looking for an easy-to-deploy grapple anchor built specifically for user convenience? Look no further! This folding kayak anchor is compact enough to carry on any kayak , but when the flukes are open, it’ll dig into the river/lake bed and keep you securely in place. Thanks to the built-in anchor collar, you can lock the flukes in place (in either extended or folded position) in an instant.

The anchor is made using galvanized iron rather than steel, but it’s rust-resistant and highly durable. It also weighs 3.5 pounds—more than enough to keep your kayak anchored in high winds and fast currents.

Included in the kit is a 40-foot length of rope and a buoy ball, as well as a stainless steel carabiner that’ll let you easily clip the anchor to your kayak even without a mount. Best of all, it comes with a 100% money-back guarantee if you’re not fully satisfied.

• 40-foot, highly durable rope included
• Good weight for all kayak sizes
• Quick-release/secure anchor collar
• Highly versatile
• Rope isn’t marine-rated
• Bag may not be thick enough to prevent the flukes from damaging an inflatable kayak hull

Weight: 2.2 lbs. (1 kg) Material: Nylon Anchor Line: Not included

If you want lightweight and compact, this is the anchor for you! The Bruce Anchor design makes it easy to anchor your boat in place with minimal fuss—no worry about folding or unfolding flukes, filling sandbags, or carrying excess weight on your kayak.

It’s definitely a lighter-weight anchor at 2.2 pounds, best-suited to milder conditions and slow currents. The fact that it’s made from nylon rather than steel or aluminum means that it’s resistant to rust, but possibly more prone to damage from rocks and gravel.

Though it’s on the pricier side compared to the other products on this list, it’s definitely a good option for those who are sick and tired of fussing with foldable grapnel-style anchors.  

• Easily deployed and stowed
• Lighter-weight
• Solidly anchor your kayak to rocky or gravelly riverbed
• Sets in seconds; no need to recheck your hold
• No anchor line included
• Nylon is more susceptible to cracks and scratches than steel

Weight: 5 pounds Material: Vinyl-coated cast iron Anchor Line: Not included

If you just want a weight that’ll keep you from drifting but don’t want to bother trying to free a dug-in plow or grapnel anchor, this mushroom anchor may be just what you need. It’s light enough that you can carry it without overloading your kayak, but offers just enough heft to keep you from drifting away.

The anchor is made with cast iron and coated with a thick, waterproof vinyl that makes it both extra-durable and highly waterproof. It’s even compatible with seawater!

Though it doesn’t include an anchor line, you’ll find the extra-large hole on the top of the anchor makes it brilliantly easy to secure your rope in place. And thanks to its mushroom shape, once it sinks into the sea or riverbed, it’ll stay put until you haul it up.

• Designed to displace sand and silt to sink into the sea/riverbed
• Good weight without being excessively heavy
• Can be used in saltwater
• Durable and corrosion-resistant
• Doesn’t include anchor line
• Vinyl coating can get scratched by sharp rocks

B est Sandbag: CALPALMY 2-in-1 Sand Anchor

Weight: Up to 50 lbs. (22.67 kg) Material: Heavy-duty PVC Anchor Line: 12′ (3.65 m)

If you’re fishing someplace with a sandy or silty bed, you’ll want to consider bringing this handy sandbag anchor along. Rocks and gravel might damage the bag, though the heavy-duty PVC is pretty damage-resistant. However, on a soft river or seabed, it’s the perfect solution to keep yourself securely anchored.

The beauty of this anchor is that you can fill it up with as much sand as you want—anywhere from a few ounces up to 50 pounds. That makes it a customizable weight that you can adapt according to your use. Row it upriver empty, fill it on the shore, and paddle it out a few meters to drop it in your fishing spot. When the time comes to head home, empty it out and transport it empty once more.

ALSO SEE: Best Dry Bags for Kayaking

The sandbag comes with a 12-foot rope and rustproof, stainless steel clips to attach it securely to your kayak. Thanks to its bright colors—yellow bag and red rope—it’s highly visible in even murky water.

• Ultra-lightweight and extra-heavy—it all depends how much you fill it
• Easy to empty and refill
• Made from durable heavy-duty PVC
• Doubles as a watertight dry bag
• May be damaged if dragged over sharp rocks or gravel

Weight: 1.65 lbs. (0.75 kg) Material: Fiberglass Anchor Line:   Not included

If you’re fishing in shallow water or near the shore, this will be the perfect stakeout pole for you! Not only is it made with super-tough and ultra-lightweight fiberglass that is highly resistant to damage or breakage, but it’s surprisingly versatile. You can buy an extension that makes it up to 12 feet long.

The pole comes in 6-foot and 8-foot lengths, with a sharp tip that drives easily into even hard-packed riverbeds. The handle is sturdy and gives you good grip to drive it into the ground, and the one-piece construction is nicely flexible so it will bend and flex with the river’s current without ever breaking.

There’s even a conveniently placed eyelet that makes it easy to thread a rope or paracord through to secure your kayak to the pole.

• Sturdy one-piece fiberglass construction
• Incredibly easy to use
• Can be extended up to 12-feet long
• Lightweight and beautifully portable
• Sharp tip may puncture inflatable kayaks

Weight: Unspecified Material: Ripstop PVC with nylon straps Anchor Line: 16′ (4.87 m)

This ultra-tough drift sock will serve you well for years to come, thanks to the highly durable proprietary ripstop PVC used to build it. All of the seams have been reinforced to maximize toughness, and the nylon straps will endure even the strongest current without tearing or fraying.

The drift sock is UV-resistant, as is the 16-foot marine-grade anchor line that comes with it. Also included is a brightly colored anchor buoy and a bag that makes it easy to store the rolled-up line and anchor in your kayak’s bulkheads.

Best of all, it’s well-priced and designed specifically by anglers to deliver the best results with every deployment.  

• Highly durable and reliable
• UV-resistant materials
• Easy to store and deploy
• Won’t fully stop you, just slow your drift
• Occasional user complaints of missing straps or quality control issues

Best Budget Pick: Seachoice Folding Grapnel Anchor

Weight: 3.5 lbs. (1.58 kg) Material: Galvanized iron Anchor Line: Not included

If you’re looking to drop anchor without breaking the bank, give this grapnel anchor a try! It costs as much as 50% less than the other products on our list, and though it doesn’t include an anchor line, it’s tough as nails and built to last. The malleable iron has been heavily galvanized to make it rust- and corrosion-resistant, even in saltwater.

The anchor is easy to lock into both open and closed positions thanks to the anchor collar, and you’ll find it folds down nicely compact for easy storage when not in use. Though this particular model weighs 3.5 pounds, Seachoice offers a range of anchors between 1.5 and 9 pounds—great if you want variety at a great price.

• Dependable and sturdy
• Easy to fold and open
• Best-priced anchor on our list
• Perfect for kayaks, SUPs, and small boats
• Doesn’t include eye-bolt for secure line attachment

The Ultimate Buying Guide to Kayak Anchors

If you’ve never heard of kayak anchors before, you’re not alone. A lot of people have no idea kayaks are even compatible with anchors, or that anchors can be designed specifically for use with a kayak.

Let’s take a look at everything you need to know about kayak anchors, starting with the most important information of all: what types of anchors will serve your needs best.

Types of Kayak Anchors

There are a surprising variety of kayak anchors manufactured and distributed today: 

Mushroom anchors are basically inverted mushroom-shaped “dead weights” that you drop into the water, that settle onto the bottom of the river or lake and hold you in place. They’re typically heavier (minimum of 10 lbs.) because they’re relying entirely on their weight to keep you from drifting. You’ll usually see them utilized by motorized boat, but because of their weight, they’re less popular among kayakers.

This is exactly what it sounds like: a bag filled with sand that sits at the bottom of the river/lake bed to hold your kayak in place. These bags are typically designed to be filled as desired so you can adjust just how much weight you’re carrying/using for anchor.

Plow anchors are designed and function like the plows once used by farmers to till soil. Basically, they include a long, straight shaft attached to a “blade” that digs into the river or lake bed, anchoring you in place. They can be hard to set—you may drift a bit until the anchor blade finally bites—but once in place, they’ll keep you securely anchored.

Drift socks, also known as “drift chutes”, are basically parachutes that operate in the water instead of the air. When deployed, the chute will extend out behind you and fill up with water, slowing your forward motion. These are typically used by small motorized watercraft , but they can work to keep your kayak from drifting too far off course. They can also maintain correct heading and keep your kayak pointed in the right direction for the best fishing . However, they won’t fully STOP you—which is why they’re usually paired with another anchor type.

A drag chain is exactly what it sounds like: a chain (or multiple chains) that drag along the bottom of the river or lake, using both the chain’s weight and the contact with the river/lake bed to slow you down. They’re best suited to shallow rivers, as chains are heavy and take up a lot of space in your kayak, so you want to limit the length (or “scope”, as you’ll see explained below) of the chain you need to carry.

RELATED: 11 Best River Fishing Kayaks of 2023: Reviews and Buying Guide

Stakeout Pole

Stakeout poles are shallow water anchors. They are designed to bury like a stake into the lake or river bed, or on the banks of the river or lake if you’re fishing near shore. Some are weighted enough that they’ll bury themselves when you drop them into the water, while others have to be manually staked into the ground. Once embedded in the earth, they’ll hold your kayak securely anchored.

Bruce Anchor

Bruce anchors look like oversized fishing hooks and work similar to plow anchors. Once the anchor hits the river/lake bed, it drags along behind you until the hook either buries itself deep enough in the ground or snags on some obstacle to stop your movement.

Grapnel Anchor

Grapnel anchors are considered the most effective forms of anchors, thanks to their four folding arms that dig into the river/lake bed and secure your kayak in place. They’re popular among kayakers because they’re affordable, easy to deploy, and take up very little space in your kayak when folded up.

Grapnel anchors are often heavy enough to serve as a drag anchor without needing to deploy the arms, but in high winds and strong currents, the foldable arms secure you firmly in place. However, they can be tricky to set up and are more prone to getting stuck in place, forcing you to wrestle to free the anchor. (Unless you use this really neat trick shown in this video by our friends over at Fishing Online .)

Factors to Consider When Buying a Kayak Anchor

The great thing about kayak anchors is that there’s not a lot of complexity to them. They’re pretty much the same across the board: something with a bit of weight and maybe a hook or extending arms to drag on the bottom of the river/lake bed and secure you in place.

However, there are a few factors that you’ll need to evaluate when shopping for the right anchor for your kayak:

As with everything on a kayak, weight is one of the most crucial factors to consider. You’ve got to make sure you’re not overloading your kayak , otherwise you’ll A) struggle to paddle, and B) increase the risk of capsizing.

However, you do want an anchor that is heavy enough to keep you from drifting while you’re fishing . That means you will need at least A BIT of weight, even if you’re opting for the plow or grapnel-style anchors.

As I mentioned above, mushroom and drag chain anchors tend to be heavier because they need enough weight to stay firmly in place while dragging along the bottom. However, you can find lighter-weight grapnel, plow, and Bruce anchor options in the 1.5 to 3.5-pound range.

On calm days, a 1.5-pound anchor dug into the ground is enough to keep you from drifting. With faster currents or high winds, however, you’ll want an anchor that weighs 3 or 3.5 pounds just to make sure you’re securely anchored in place.

Kayak anchors come in a wide variety of materials. Most classic is steel—either galvanized or stainless steel—or cast aluminum. Stakeout poles are often made of fiberglass.

Some steel or aluminum anchors have a waterproof coating that prevents rust and corrosion, as well as protects against salt build-up (if you’re fishing in saltwater ).

Anchor Line

Anchor line refers to the rope, chain, or paracord used to secure the anchor to your boat. Chain is certainly the toughest, but also the heaviest. Rope and paracord made using synthetic, marine-grade materials will be much lighter, more compact, and also very resistant to deterioration.

Scope: How Long Should Your Line Be?

The term “scope” refers to the length of the anchor line relative to the depth. There is a “rule of thumb” with watercraft that says you should carry roughly 7 feet of line for every foot of depth to anchor. It’s a way to always make sure you’ve got enough rope in any situation.

However, this is more the case for larger boats that have space enough to store that much line. For a kayak, the ratio should be more in the range of 3-5 feet of line for every foot of depth. So if you’re fishing in a spot with a 10-foot depth, you need between 30 and 50 feet of line. If the depth is 20 feet, you’ll need between 60 and 100 feet, and so on.

To be safe, you should consider an anchor line of roughly 50-75 feet—that should be enough for most conditions!

Accessories

Some anchors come with handy accessories, including:

• Anchor marker buoy that floats on the water to let you (and other passing boats) know where your line is anchored
• Snap-hook to easily secure the rope or chain to the anchor
• Storage bag to keep the line out of the way when the anchor isn’t in use.

They’re not necessary, but they’re certainly a convenient addition to your kayak anchor.

How to Rig an Anchor on a Kayak

Rigging an anchor on your kayak is very easy if your kayak comes with special anchor mounts. Anchor mounts are specialized hardware mounted to your kayak, which you then run the anchor rope or line through to secure it in place.

Fair warning: most kayaks won’t include anchor mounts, so you’ll need to purchase this hardware separately. The hardware gets bolted to your kayak’s hull, both to protect the hull and provide a secure spot to mount the anchor that won’t damage the line. The Yak Attack Lever Lock Deluxe Anchor Trolley is a top-rated, highly durable mount that will give you a solid anchor point to secure the line to.      

I also recommend using an anchor lock system—essentially, a lock that stops the line from running out once the anchor is securely in place. You can stick with a simple cleat, but I’ve been a huge fan of the Scotty Side Deck Mount   because it has easy lock-and-release action that I feel is safer for reeling in and letting out my anchor.

And, of course, one final addition: an anchor reel or winch. It’s absolutely no fun hauling up yards and yards of cold, wet anchor rope, much less doing this a few dozen times a day! Using a reel or winch will do the heavy lifting for you and keep your hands (mostly) dry.

Keep it simple with the Scuba Max Dive Reel (used for scuba lines), or a bit fancier with my personal favorite, the Anchor Wizard .

Kayak Anchor Maintenance Tips

So you’ve bought an anchor and already started using it on your kayak fishing trips . It’s a game-changer, isn’t it? It makes staying where the fish are so much easier, and stops you from drifting off-course even when the wind picks up.

But take note: just as with the rest of your kayak gear , you need to take proper care of your anchor to prevent it from rusting or breaking! That means:

• Washing it with clean water after every use , especially if you’ve gone fishing in saltwater or in a pond with lots of bacteria or algae.
• Using a mild detergent for more effective cleaning. Make sure all corrosive particles are washed off by using a mild detergent.
• Letting it air-dry before storing. Never put your gear away wet, especially if storing it in a garage, basement, or shed with very little air flow.
• Storing it away from sunlight. The UV rays in sunlight will degrade the material faster, weakening both the anchor itself and your line.
• Taking care of the rope/chain, anchor mount/trolley, and other accessories. The anchor line is particularly susceptible to being damaged and deteriorating. Give it a thorough inspection to make certain it’s not fraying, unraveling, or somehow been cut or damaged while in use. And give the anchor mounts, trolleys, reels, and locking systems a thorough once-over, tightening any bolts as needed.

Typically, an anchor is mounted to the stern (back) of a boat, or sometimes to the bow (front). Kayaks that include mounting hardware already installed will typically feature them on the bow or stern. However, you can always opt for an anchor trolley that lets you customize where on the bow, stern, or the side of your choice to set the anchor point. 

If you’re all about that #paddlinglife and exploring lakes, rivers, and the open ocean, then no, you don’t need an anchor. But if you’re an angler or casual fisherman who wants to enjoy the relaxing comforts of sitting in one spot with your line in the water, a kayak anchor will help to keep you securely in place and stop you from drifting.

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Andrew Peloquin

Andrew is a sports enthusiast, fitness nut, and avid kayaker and paddleboarder who loves nothing more than spending his free time out on the water. He spends his winters snowshoeing, snowboarding, and dreaming of summer days when he can take his beloved 14-footer fishing kayak out to explore the 1,000+ lakes and rivers within driving distance of his home in central British Columbia, Canada.

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The Best Kayak Anchors Of 2023

by Ed Mashburn | Jul 13, 2023 | Fishing

One of the great things about  kayak fishing  is the mobility a good fishing kayak allows. Anglers can go lots of places that are hard to reach with conventional watercraft. Kayaks are easy to move which makes finding fish a lot easier. But for effective kayak fishing, sometimes it is just as important to make sure the kayak does not move. Sometimes an angler needs to stop and hold a position for best fishing results. This is where well-designed kayak anchors comes into play.  An anchor can make all the difference between a frustrating situation where the kayak needs to be in a certain place but won’t stay there on its own or a very productive outing with fish in the boat. Kayaks are very subject to wind and tide movement, and an unanchored kayak will soon be blown or drifted off a hot fishing spot.

How To Choose Kayak Anchors

Kayak anchor points to consider, kayak anchoring system options, kayak anchor faqs, final thoughts on kayak anchors.

Each kayak angler will have different fishing styles and needs when it comes to anchoring. It doesn’t make sense for a kayak angler to spend a lot of money on an anchoring system if a simple “drop the anchor in and tie the rope off” system meets the needs of the angler. It all comes down to what a specific angler needs from her/his anchoring requirements.

If an angler spends most time fishing shallow bayous and backwaters, a simple stake out pole may be all the anchor that is needed.

An angler who fishes larger, more open and deeper waters may need an anchoring system which allows secure contact with the bottom, an anchor and line system of some kind. 

Anchoring a kayak can be very helpful for certain fishing situations, but anglers need to keep in mind that anchoring a kayak can also create some very real safety hazards.

An anchored kayak has much less flexibility of movement and if the current is strong or waves are high or there are lots of big boat wakes present, an anchored kayak can easily be overwhelmed by the moving water and can turn over. 

Anchoring a kayak should not be done in strong current. A free-floating kayak under paddle or pedal power is a stable, secure craft, but an anchored kayak gives up a lot of the kayak’s stability.

The classic situation where a kayak should not be anchored is the passes to the gulf from bays.  These passes are great places to catch some big fish, but they are often very rough with boat wakes, Big waves coming in against outgoing current, and just plain strong outgoing current can get spooky in a kayak fast. It is best not to anchor in these passes

Stake out poles are just what their name says, poles long enough to reach the bottom which can secure a kayak. These poles can be purchased ready-made or rigged up by the angler. Stake out poles need to be long enough to reach the bottom but not so long as to present a problem on the deck of the kayak. Most anglers can do very well with a pole about six feet long. Despite being such a simple and cheap item, stake out poles can be very effective kayak anchors in shallow water situations.

Anchor trolleys are systems which allow anglers to position the anchor point of the kayak anywhere from the very bow of the boat to the very stern. This adjustability makes anchoring much more secure and allows the boat to be positioned for the best casting position for the angler. Trolley systems are more complex and require some attachment points to be mounted on the hull of the kayak both bow and stern.

We can’t overlook the most sophisticated kayak anchor system- an electronically operated pole which is mounted to the stern of the kayak and which drops down to secure the kayak to bottom with the push of a button. These systems are easy to operate, very fast to make a secure hold, and they hold a kayak very securely in position. 

YakGear Deluxe Anchor Trolley Kit

• Deluxe anchor trolley system with Harken pulleys
• Allows the bow of your vessel to turn in to the current for a smoother experience
• Mini zig zag cleat included to maintain stable positioning
• Installation instructions and hardware included
• Kit also includes 30-Feet of rope

The Deluxe Anchor Trolley by YakGear ensures you stay in control while fishing in an anchored position. This kit allows you to deploy various anchors, drift chutes, or stake out poles to assess wind and current conditions, all while maintaining an ideal fishing spot. By mounting it on one side of your kayak or canoe, the nylon pulley system lets you position the trolley anywhere from the bow to the stern. The Harken pulleys ensure smooth movement without rubbing against the boat, while the raised design prevents scratches or damage. The kit includes stainless steel installation hardware, instructions, and rigging tips from YakGear.

66FIT Kayak Anchor

• Compact and lightweight design
• Suitable for kayaks of all sizes
• Provides a secure hold in various water conditions
• Easy to deploy and retrieve
• Durable construction for long-lasting use
• Ensures stability and control during kayaking activities

The 66FIT Kayak Anchor is a compact and reliable anchor designed specifically for kayaks. It provides a secure hold in various water conditions, allowing you to stay in place while fishing, taking breaks, or enjoying the scenery. The anchor is easy to deploy and retrieve, featuring a durable construction and a compact size that is suitable for kayaks of all sizes. With the 66FIT Kayak Anchor, you can ensure stability and control during your kayaking adventures.

Superstick Shallow Water Anchor Pin Kit

• Aircraft-grade fiberglass rod construction
• Versatile and tough design
• Preferred T-handle
• Removable handle allows custom length adjustments
• UV inhibitor
• A must-have for shallow-water anchoring
• Kit includes anchor pin, cinching rope lanyard, and rugged storage clips

Constructed with aircraft-grade fiberglass rod, this anchor pin offers unmatched strength for a reliable hold on every occasion. Its versatile and durable design includes a boater-preferred T-handle, making it easier to drive in and stake out, even on tough surfaces. The removable handle allows for custom length adjustments, and a UV inhibitor ensures long-lasting performance. The kit includes the anchor pin, cinching rope lanyard, and rugged storage clips, providing everything you need for a convenient and secure anchoring solution.

Bvgauxd Sand Anchor

•  Length 36” with stainless steel screw auger
• Pure 304 stainless steel material anchor
•  Bungee dock line creates a bidirectional pull

The Bvgauxd Anchor is specifically designed as a shallow water anchor, perfect for PWC, Jet Ski, and pontoon users. Crafted with durable 304 stainless steel, it offers excellent UV and corrosion resistance. With its 36-inch length and auger design, it easily digs deep into sandbars and shallow water areas, providing superior stability. Paired with a bungee dock line, it ensures a secure hold, preventing accidents during your short breaks on the shore. Say goodbye to docking troubles with the Bvgauxd Anchor, your reliable shallow water companion.

Power-Pole Micro Anchor System

• Silent motor deploys and retracts anchor spike
• Easy installation and removal
• Compatible with C-Monster operating system for remote control from included controller or through a fee app on your smart phone.
• Compatible with 3/4″ spike (sold separately)
• Two-year warranty

The Power-Pole Micro Anchor System is perfect for kayaks seeking to anchor in shallow lakes, rivers, and lagoons. This innovative system utilizes an electrically deployed spike (sold separately) to secure the boat in challenging conditions such as wind or currents. With a wireless button or a free app on your Android smartphone, you can effortlessly control the anchor’s deployment using a silent motor. The remote offers convenient one-touch up and down controls, allowing you to adjust the anchor force as needed. The Micro Anchor can be mounted on the transom or deck, and with additional mounting brackets, it can be easily transferred between boats. The spike remains secure until deployed and can be detached for transport.

Power-Pole Ultra Light Spike

• Holds boat up to 1500 lbs
• Works with Power-Pole Micro Anchor System

POWER-POLE 8′ Ultra-Light Spike Shallow Water Anchor can be used as a manual anchor or with the Power-Pole Micro spike driver.

How to anchor a kayak with/without a trolley

To securely anchor a kayak whether using a trolley system or a  simple “drop it in and  cleat it off” anchor on a rope is fairly simple. Locate the position the kayak needs to be, move up current or upwind a bit and quietly let the anchor down. Give a little scope to the anchor line, and the kayak should be set in position. 

What size anchor for a kayak-weight

For most kayak angling applications, a 1.5 pound to 3.0 pound anchor will work fine. Kayaks are light and they don’t put a lot of pressure on a properly set kayak anchor.

How to attach an anchor to a kayak

Although attaching an anchor to the kayak is important, it is important also to make sure that if the anchor must be released at times, to chase a big hooked fish or to make an emergency change of location- that the anchor can be later retrieved.  Each kayak anchor should have a float attached to its line so that the anchor won’t be forever lost if it has to be released quickly. A simple Styrofoam float such as used for crab traps which has the anchor line run through the middle opening of the float will allow kayak anglers to drop the anchor and come back later to pick it up.

In general, kayak anchor lines can be secured to the kayak with a simple cleat securely attached to the kayak hull. This allows a very quick and secure attachment with an equally quick and easy release when it comes time to move.

Anchoring a kayak securely and well can make the difference between a frustrating, non-productive fishing trip and a trip which gives the angler a chance to catch a lot of good fish. Each angler’s needs will be different, and each angler’s kayak anchor will reflect these different needs.

Full Disclosure: This post may include affiliate links. There’s no extra charge to our readers for using these.

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