Re: anchor on windy day
Point into the wind, slow to a stop, begin to reverse as anchor is dropped. Keep reversing while scoping out to 4:1 minimum (5:1 is better). When scope is reached, stop reversing, cleat/tie off anchor line to bow, preferably to the bow eye. Reverse gently again and pull until tight, i.e. until you're no longer moving. If you are in a tight spot, i.e. lots of other boats, you can use a stern anchor to hold your position, if not one anchor from the bow will suffice. The easiest way to set a stern anchor is to set the bow the same as above, but scope out 8:1. Once it is set, shut down the engine, drop or throw the stern anchor straight back, then manually pull yourself toward the bow anchor while letting out line for the stern until you get back to 4or5:1. Tie the bow anchor line off, then tighten up the stern anchor line to suit you. All of this assumes you have a proper anchor for whatever type bottom you're anchoring in with at least 6' of chain on the bow anchor. When you're ready to go, turn your blower on, pull yourself back to the stern anchor while letting out the bow anchor line (the very end of which should be tied of to your boat at all times - if not, do not drop it). Pull the stern anchor, clean it off and put it away. I pull myself to the bow anchor, some power to it - your choice. If you power, make sure you run your blower before you start. Either way, get to it, pull it, clean it, stow it and you're off.
