anchors

[kaddy]

I have an XLV, and my 20 pound anchor isn't cutting it. Even when I'm on a lake, the waves will push my boat around.

What does everyone use for their XLV's? I was thinking about buying a 40 lb. pyramid anchor, which is shaped like a pyramid without any teeth. They are $89 at Fisherman's Marine.

I called AWS today, and they sell a box anchor that has two teeth and folds up. The 30 lb anchor is $169.

Any suggestions?

[rmckenney]

I have an XLV and I'm running a 16# Danforth type anchor. I don't use it much but when I do, it works fine. However, I only use it on our local river which has a bottom composition of sand and mud, ideal holding ground for any anchor. I would have to ask the following about your current set up:

1. How much rode do you have out?
2. How are you fetching? Are you dropping with or without astern propulsion?
3. What are the bottom compositions that you typically anchor in?
4. What is the depth to rode ratio and how long are you anchoring for?

When I anchor in the river (which can have currents up to 5 kts) I typically put out 50 ft of line for roughly 20 ft of depth with minimal drag. When I drop, I use the current to stream my anchor out and allow the flukes to trip and dig. Obviously in lakes that have rocky bottoms, the Danforth is practically useless and I would venture a grappling type anchor may be more effective.

I have found that successful anchoring is hit and miss. Depends largely on the bottom composition and the amount of rode you are able to put out with relation to the depth you are anchoring in.

[RPE_LSV]

I don't have an XLV, but we do use a Box Anchor on our LSV. (bought from AWS as well) It's a beast and we absolutely love it. Plus being able to store in out of the way (since it collapses) is nice.

The biggest lesson I've learned about using an anchor is how much anchor line to put out. I love the 7:1 ratio. For every foot deep you are, you need 7 feet of line out in the water. I'm sure some people will say that's overkill, but I don't ever have to worry about my boat moving.

I think most people have too short of a line and it just picks up the anchor when waves/wakes hit the boat.

Hope this helps ya!

[Razzman]

The small box anchor from Slide Anchor for boats 18'-30' without a doubt, the only anchor that holds in all conditions gauranteed or your money back.

I have one and it holds in everything. I've tied four boats to mine and it still holds without slipping even in wind.

With the box anchor you don't need a 7:1 rode. They say a 45 degree angle or 2:1 but i've had it less than that and it still won't let go! I also use the Danik Hook from them to adjust the rope easily, well worth it.

[viking]

2nd the box anchor from Slide Anchor. I have the small for my outback and love it. Also use the shore spike from them for tethering the transom to the shore.

I use my anchor buddy with the box anchor and never had any problem with it not holding (yet).

[mk_deuce]

Box anchor for me too! Look on their site at the Danik hook too. It clips right on the bow hook since there is no cleat up front to tie the anchor line off of. Both work perfect. The Box anchor is a little pricey & cumbersome but worth it in my opinion since I am the one who has to set the anchor.

[you da man]

How ironic, my box anchor arrived today. Used one time and got it on Craigslist for $75 including rope.

[mk_deuce]

How ironic, my box anchor arrived today. Used one time and got it on Craigslist for $75 including rope.

Why dont you like it if you dont mind me askin?

[Razzman]

I think what he means is it was used one time and he bought it for $75 on Craigslist.

[you da man]

I think what he means is it was used one time and he bought it for $75 on Craigslist.

Exactly, half of retail if you guys didn't know how much they cost...but everyone knows it's worth it.