Why Type Matters
An anchor perfect for sand may drag immediately in rock or fail in mud. Bottom composition determines which design holds best. Choosing wrong means your boat drifts into hazards while you think you are anchored.
Anchors Compared
| Type | Best Bottom | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Fluke (Danforth) | Sand, hard mud | Light, compact. Poor in rock/grass. |
| Plow (CQR/Delta) | Sand, mud, grass, mixed | Versatile all-around. Heavier. Resets well. |
| Claw (Bruce) | Rock, coral, mixed | Self-righting. Less holding per pound. |
| Scoop (Rocna/Mantus) | Sand, mud, mixed | Modern high-performance. Sets fast, holds strongly. |
For Most Boaters
A plow or scoop covers the widest range. Fluke is best for sand-only with lightest weight. Carry a secondary anchor of different type for mixed bottoms.
Sizing
| Boat Length | Fluke | Plow | Scoop |
|---|---|---|---|
| Up to 16 ft | 4-8 lb | 10-15 lb | 7-11 lb |
| 17-25 ft | 8-13 lb | 15-25 lb | 11-16 lb |
| 26-35 ft | 13-22 lb | 25-35 lb | 16-25 lb |
Always carry rode for 7:1 scope ratio (7 ft of rode per foot of depth). Set the anchor with a firm reverse pull to verify holding.
Key Takeaway
Match type to bottom. Size to boat length. 7:1 scope. Set with reverse pull. These fundamentals prevent 95% of dragging incidents.
Frequently Asked Questions
Best all-around anchor?
Plow or modern scoop (Rocna, Mantus) for best holding across sand, mud, grass, and mixed bottoms.