An anchor is an essential piece of boating equipment. With the right device, you can spend all day on the water without worrying about drifting. Since there are several different options to choose from, though, it can be hard to pick the right system for your vessel. Below, you can read about the best anchors for different circumstances. 

A Guide to Boat Anchors

1. Fluke Anchors

The fluke anchor has two wide, flat triangular prongs that can dig down into the sand or mud. Comprised of durable steel, it can weigh anywhere from 4 to 44 pounds. The fluke anchor is good for keeping small to medium vessels in place. Since it stows flat, and can be mounted in a chock on the bow, it’s easy to store.  A similar version is the slip ring anchor.  It also has two triangular prongs, but it also has a ring that slips up and down the handle to help set and release the anchor.  These are typically used for smaller vessels.

2. Claw Anchors

Shaped like a claw, this anchor has a three-pronged design that can penetrate most materials, including rock and shale. However, it needs to be relatively heavy in relation to the size of the vessel since it has the smallest holding power. If you wanted to anchor a 35-foot boat with a claw, for example, you would need to use a device that weighs at least 44 pounds. 

3. Plow Anchors

Resembling a large heart-shaped scoop, the plow anchor is larger than the fluke and offers more holding power. This device buries itself into rocks and clay with ease and can stabilize vessels that are up to 65 feet long. Weighing up to 60 pounds, plow anchors are harder to stow and generally only used on medium or larger vessels that have plenty of storage space for boating equipment.  Plow anchors also can be stored hanging from the bow through a pulpit or on a roller-mount.

There are several other styles also, but not as popular. These include navy anchors, mushroom anchors, grapnel anchors, screw-in and bag anchors that can be filled with rocks or sand for shallow water mooring.

For a high-quality anchor, head to Harbortown Marine Inc. in Vermilion, OH. This locally-owned supply shop has a vast inventory of boating equipment for water lovers throughout the area. For more than 26 years, many boaters have turned to them for all their marine supplies. To learn more about the reputable brands they carry, visit their website, or call (440) 967-8072 for your boating equipment & supplies.