TWM Anchor Guide
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Here’s a quick guide to anchors for first-time boaters and seasoned boaters about to explore new regions. Also, consider adding an emergency anchor as is recommended by most marine experts.
Shop All Anchors
Plow Anchor:
The plow style is commonly in use for two basic reasons: it holds in most seabeds and it conforms well to bow rollers. The plow is designed with a single “blade” to plow into the seabed. Most plows have a ballasted tip which aids in setting & self deployment from the roller. There are generally two styles of plows: a CQR® (coastal quick release) plow, and a plow with a roll bar. These can be filled with trip lines to help remove wedged anchors.
Claw Anchor:
Also popular, the claw-style anchor is designed to hold in just about any seabed, including rocky bottoms. Claw anchors can even set in seaweed. Stowing can be an issue if space is a problem since this type has two fixed side claws in addition to the center claw.
Fluke Anchor:
A popular choice among recreational boaters for its ability to hold in most seabed conditions with its two-fluke design. The fluke performs best in sand and mud. Be aware that seabeds with heavy seaweed can prevent a fluke from setting. Some models such as Fortress and Lewmar LFX can be disassembled, making them popular backup options.
Plow with Roll Bar:
The roll bar is a relatively new addition to the traditional plow design, and helps the anchor orient itself in the proper position for setting, no matter how it lands. The roll bar may not work with through Pulpit Bow Rollers.
CQR Anchor
A CQR® style features a hinged shank, allowing the blade to remain embedded while the shank is free to move as your boat moves with wind and tide.
Grapnel Hinged
Best used for short periods of anchoring on small crafts. The folding tines make this easy to stow, and a convenient backup. Can be used to retrieve gear lost overboard.
Anchor Sizing Guide
Use this chart as a guide to selecting the right anchor for your boat. All sizes are estimates and local conditions should be taken into consideration. Always choose a size larger should you be between sizes.
Boat Length |
Displacement |
New Gen Anchor |
Delta/Plow |
Fluke/Danforth
|
20–25 ft |
2,500 – 5,000 lbs |
13 lbs (6kg) |
14 lbs |
8 lbs |
26–30 ft |
6,000 – 10,000 lbs |
22 lbs (10kg) |
22 lbs |
13 lbs |
31–35 ft |
10,000 – 15,000 lbs |
33 lbs (15kg) |
35 lbs |
20 lbs |
36–40 ft |
15,000 – 25,000 lbs |
44 lbs (20kg) |
44 lbs |
25 lbs |
41–45 ft |
25,000 – 35,000 lbs |
55 lbs (25kg) |
55 lbs |
35 lbs |
46–55 ft |
35,000 – 50,000 lbs |
73 lbs (33kg) |
75 lbs |
50 lbs |