Boat Anchors

Marine Articles >Anchoring and Docking > Boat Anchors

The right boat anchor depends on the weight of your boat, the depths of the sea floor where you may anchor your boat, and the purpose of the anchor. Choosing an inappropriate anchor and anchor accessories--even those made by a respected company--will lead to performance failure when the anchor is needed most. When shopping for anchors online, it is essential to read the specifications on all anchors, ropes, and chains before making buying decisions.

Anchors are made from a variety of metals, such as galvanized steel, cast iron, manganese steel, and many other metals. The Delta Plow Marine Anchors, made by Lewmar, are made from manganese steel and are used by several National Lifeboat organizations because of their holding strength. Equally important as the metal used is the shape of the anchor. This particular series of anchors is designed to have an extremely low center of gravity. This causes the anchors to right themselves and catch the sea bed almost immediately.

Kedge-style anchors are perfect for fishermen, particularly those who use long lines and may fish in areas where the sea bed is particularly rocky. Kedge anchors must be heavier than other types of anchors, but they do catch onto rocks better than most other styles. Fife Forge Anchors and Washington Chain Anchors are both excellent manufacturers of these types of anchors.

Another factor to consider when choosing between anchors is storage. Plastimo manufactures a line of folding anchors that take up very little room and are very easy to store. No matter what style of anchor you need, be sure to buy something that will hold the weight of your boat. To shop for boat anchors made by the most respected manufacturers in the world, visit Go2Marine at www.go2marine.com.