How big of anchor do I need on a 18.6 foot ski boat. I would guess the weight at 3000 lbs. I would like one to hold us in coves for the kids to swim and such at the lake. Thanks Sharps-Nut
If you are in an area that is calm enough for the kids to swim, you can get away with a small-cheap anchor, of 10-14 pounds. You don't need a $60 or $149 dollar anchor.<br /><br />The fancy ones take up too much space.<br />I would get a nice rubber coated mushroom anchor.<br /><br />Ok, are you ready, here come the differing opinions.
I use a small river type anchor on my runabout. This is the type that is rubber coated and looks kind of like a three fluked mushroom. I use about 4 feet of chain with mine to keep it on its side when I am in current. I works great in the delta and lakes. If you are in a area where there is alot of current a small danforth type is the best.
Thanks for the help. I will start off with the 18 lbs wally world one its only like 20 bucks. I have never owned a boat and did not know what it took to hold one in a calm cove. Thanks. Sharps-Nut
Sharps-Nut - There is no single answer to your question as much depends on the type of bottom, depth of water, wind, weather and conditions of the anchorage. Best bet is to see what other folks use who have some experience in anchoring where you go.
Big enough depends on local conditions and how you use it. Just make sure you've got a few feet of reasonably heavy chain attached between any anchor and your line so that it is pulled over and can dig in once on the bottom. Otherwise it will most likely never grab. Vinyl coated anchor chain is available in short sections that won't scratch anything up when onboard. anchor chain The mushroom anchor is indeed great on soft bottoms, but you might want another type if around really rocky or hardpan bottoms. Smaller is OK if there is never much wind or current. Make sure you carry enough line- ten times your depth is about right to be able to set the anchor. Something with a bit of stretch is best. Sometimes you can tie it up closer once you get it to grab the bottom. <br />I was given a couple nice anchors that a friend declared nearly useless until he found out about the chain. He kept buying new anchors thinking the design wasn't any good. He collected more than he needed, was bad for him but was nice for me. Do it right and a smaller one will probably be just fine.<br /><br />Of course it is FUN to have to swim for the boat as it drifts away when the wind kicks up a little!
