Boat Anchors
Did you know that your watercraft could be weighing the wrong anchor? Are you still using the boat anchor your vessel came equipped with? Without the proper boat anchor, your boat can drift in the currents and wind and cause considerable damage to your boat or others. Be sure when you are looking at boat anchors for sale that you take into consideration a few key elements.
Your first consideration is to make sure you know the size and weight of your vessel, and also the bottom conditions in the waters you will be maneuvering. Various types of waterways require different kinds of boat anchors. Whether it is rock, coral, shale, grassy, sandy, or mud, you will want to make sure that you have the boat anchor suitable for each type of bottom condition. Also, piloting through salt, fresh or brackish waters also requires different types of marine anchors. Anchors must tether a boat properly and must secure to the seabed in a manner that will offset wind and waves around the boat, thereby keeping the vessel secure. Let’s explore some anchor options based on different conditions.
Marine Anchors for Every Seabed
- Pivoting-fluke anchors are best for sandy bottoms. The non-hinged scoop anchors are an ideal option. Most seabeds have a sandy bottom, and it is easy for pivot anchors to penetrate for high-holding power.
- When anchored in muddy conditions, a deeper penetration into the bottom is needed. Broader shank fluke angle boat anchors are a popular choice for anchoring in these conditions. Known as the “The World’s Best Anchor”, the Fortress marine anchor has won in test after test and offers the best holding power in muddy buttons. This adjustable option can be adjusted from 32” to 45” fluke angle.
- Plow-shaped or grapnel-type anchors are best suited for rock and coral conditions. The Lewmar DTX Stainless Steel Plow Anchor is a great option. Also, check out our selection of River Anchors, these boat anchors will help secure the anchor to rocks and river bottoms for a stronger hold.
- Box anchors are also a great choice when the bottom is sandy. -Gen3 Marine makes a great version- As it scrapes along the bottom, the anchor box fills with sand which creates a weight to slow the vessel and hold it in place. Box anchors are ideal for use with smaller craft and work best when used in relatively shallow water.
- When anchoring in shale, clay, or grassy conditions, the weight of the anchor is the most important part in determining its hold and penetration capabilities. The heavy-duty cast iron Painted Navy Boat Anchor is a great option.
There are additional considerations to look at when deciding which boat anchor is best for your boat. The composition of the anchor is important. A very popular choice are boat anchors constructed from galvanized steel. Stainless steel is also an excellent choice and is aesthetically pleasing on the vessel bow when not in use. Ultralight boats and racing sailboat owners opt for a lightweight choice and often look at aluminum alloy anchors. Cast iron options, especially box anchors, continue to provide the strongest hold and dig into the sea bottom most securely.
Wholesale Marine has the right boat anchor for every boating condition. Regardless of the type of boat or the water conditions you encounter, we are here to help you select the right boat anchor. Call us today at 877-388-2628 and we will weigh the possibilities for you. We are here from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM EST Monday through Friday. Ask about our Captain’s Club Rewards Program for additional discounts every time you shop at Wholesale Marine.