Anchoring

[UpperDecker]

So when you anchor out, what sort of anchor do you use for your stern anchor? Does it have to be of the same size that is rated for your vessel or can it be a smaller one since it is not the primary anchor that is holding you?

 

[AbsoLoot]

UD,

When we anchor out I use a 44 lb Delta FastSet on the bow with all chain. It has held real well. For a stern anchor, a small Danforth works well. I think I'm currently using a 16 lb. one, but I've used a 13 lb in the past with great success. It doesn't need to be nearly as large as your bow anchor since it is basically just holding your stern from swing around. If you are going to anchor with the wind and/or current on your beam, you may want to use one a little heavier.

 

[Billgillespie]

Dave:

We will be at Tower Park between 1100 and 1200 tomorrow. We hope to see you there.

Bill

 

[UpperDecker]

Thanks, Dave. I was thinking the same thing except in a place like Mildred, the wind can shift directions putting you in a situation where the wind is on the beam.

I had this happen a few weeks ago. I was anchored about 100 feet off the shore and everything was fine. I would gently swing back and forth. I would look out every once in awhile to make sure everything was OK and it was for the whole day. Then towards evening I look out again and my window is covered with tulies. The wind did a 180 and put me into the shore. Luckily it drops off quickly there so I wasn't aground, but it's not something I would like to have happen again.

 

[yzer]

I use a Danforth Standard 1300 (16lbs) as the main and a danforth clone 7 lb. for the stern anchor. There is 6-16 ft of chain for it too, if it's deep enough. Also have a folding grapple hook that comes in handy for snagging the bank sometimes. I only use a stern anchor to limit swing off of the main and don't expect it to hold the boat alone, although it probably could. I don't want it to hold the boat broadside to current and compromise the main anchor, either.

The main anchor is two sizes large for extra wind rating. The little stern anchor is rated to hold the boat in 25 kts.