Best Anchor - Hampton Roads rivers

[USN8303]

Looking for boaters in the Hampton Roads area that may know what type of anchor works best in the following rivers: James, York, Poquson, Back River. I am reading about anchor types and it seems the river bed is the key factor. I will be anchoring a 16 foot boat that weighs about 1250 lbs (boat and motor), add a few hundred pounds for the crew.

What type anchor, what size/weight, how much chain, etc. I know next to nothing about boating.....thought you guys would point me in the right direction on this topic. Thanks

 

[EddiePetty]

Re: Best Anchor - Hampton Roads rivers

The XO and I fish the James in the vacinity of the Monitor-Merrimac, HRBT and James River Bridge quite often in our wellcraft V-20. The best fishing seems to be either over the tunnels or adjacent to the bridge pilings, thus quite a few snags and debris on the bottom. After loosing two Danforth anchors, we have switched to 'Rock' anchors. I make my own out of 3/8-1/2" rebar and a 16" piece of 1-1/2" pvc. The rock anchors hold surprisingly well in most bottom conditions. Their major benefit is that if snagged the offending tang will straighten out when pulled vertically. I like to use six feet of 3/8" galvanized chain and (depending on sea state) 3-7 times rode to water depth.
FWIW...Ed in 'ol Virginny

 

[Home Cookin']

Re: Best Anchor - Hampton Roads rivers

Danforth, 3-6' of chain; 100' of line at least, will be sufficient for recreational use. More chain if mooring for storms.

POst your question at tidalfish.com in the Virginia forums--tons of local knowledge and experience there.

 

[USN8303]

Re: Best Anchor - Hampton Roads rivers

Thanks Guys....Hey Eddie Petty .....how deep is the water..at the deepest point, near the HRBT, MMBT, and JRB?

I will also check out Tidalfish.com as well. Thanks again.

 

[Home Cookin']

Re: Best Anchor - Hampton Roads rivers

60' in the channel--there are deeper holes. Around the bridges, range from 5 to 30' generally, IIRC. Haven't been to the JRB lately with a depth finder; mostly go to HRBT.
If you are on a trailr, launch from Willoughby for HRBT and MM--unless you can launch from the base. There's a ramp in Newport News but don't leave stuff there after dark. Back River is a great area, too, for a 16. Be very careful about going out to CBBT and even the others; need to know what 16 you have: Bass boat is a no go; Carolina skiff go for it!

 

[USN8303]

Re: Best Anchor - Hampton Roads rivers

60' in the channel--there are deeper holes. Around the bridges, range from 5 to 30' generally, IIRC. Haven't been to the JRB lately with a depth finder; mostly go to HRBT.
If you are on a trailr, launch from Willoughby for HRBT and MM--unless you can launch from the base. There's a ramp in Newport News but don't leave stuff there after dark. Back River is a great area, too, for a 16. Be very careful about going out to CBBT and even the others; need to know what 16 you have: Bass boat is a no go; Carolina skiff go for it!

We are getting our first boat this Saturday....its a Key Largo 160 with a 50 HP 4 stroke.

I live in Newport News...retired military....can I launch out of Ft. Monroe?

Thanks for the great info. We are excited to go out there on the water.

 

[EddiePetty]

Re: Best Anchor - Hampton Roads rivers

...there is an excellent four lane launch facility at Huntington Park located on the north end of the JRB adjacent to the fishing pier. The channel was dredged late last season so access in no problem, no time. Plus, there is a life-guarded, roped-off swimming area for the little ones. The VDGIF, CG, NNPD and park rangers monitor the place all the time...never had a problem day nor night.
Additionally, there is also a launch facility across the bridge from the Monitor-Merrimac Outlook Park...I believe its called Peterson's or Pearson's landing
(http://www.recreationparks.net/VA/newport-news-city/monitor-merrimac-overlook-park-newport-news). Be advised it is in a less-than-desirable section of town but it does offer extremely easy access to the MMBT. It also is routinely patrolled. The only 'problem' I've encountered so far is the moochers begging fish. The access channel is narrow and shallow even at high tide. You'll probly be alright as I routinely make it with our 20' I/O.
Be advised of the rocks on the starboard side of the channel as you enter the main river...they are submerged at flood tides and unmarked...sooooo, red-right-return!!!
Call the BPS and enroll in the next availabe boaters' safety course (free of charge but allllll day long. You will has access to knowledeable locals who can help you become familiar with the area.
If I can help ya'...just P.M. me and we'll exchange info.
ed in Courtland.

 

[USN8303]

Re: Best Anchor - Hampton Roads rivers

Thanks for the good info Eddie Petty. I will keep in touch and eventually see you out there on the water.

 

[Home Cookin']

Re: Best Anchor - Hampton Roads rivers

being military, you might have access to a facility on Ft. Monroe; I'm not. You are also close to Back River (Poquoson) where I believe there are private ramps you can use for a fee. It's a nice area to explore and learn in.

Hope you enjoy your new boat! Unless you are experienced, think twice about taking family on the maiden voyage and about trying a public ramp for the first time.
There's a lot of good info on the web sites for Virginia Marine Resources Commission and Dept Game and Inland Fisheries, including facilities, private and public. Poke around Tidalfish.com's "Virginia" forum.

Also this weekend is Operation Dry Water and the LEO's announced they will be out in force looking for drunks. You may get inspected--which is a good thing with a new boat. But if you or your crew intend to have that one beer, keep it discreet.

 

[USN8303]

Re: Best Anchor - Hampton Roads rivers

Thanks for the good info Home Cookin.