Video · Rigging & Gear
Kayak Anchor Types: Pros, Cons and Tips to Avoid Losing One
I break down the different kayak anchor types, the pros and cons of each, and how I keep from losing my anchor.
What’s in this video
Not all anchors are equal. Most kayakers buy the same anchor no matter where they paddle, but the right anchor for your area will hold better. I go through mushroom anchors, claw (Bruce) anchors, anchor poles and drift anchors, then cover other options like folding, river and Richter anchors, with the pros and cons of each.
I also cover how to keep from losing your anchor, with tips and gear like anchor trolleys, the Scotty anchor lock and anchor line floats. I touch on a few DIY anchor setups too, including making your own loss proof anchor.
Key moments
- 0:00 Intro
- 1:10 Mushroom Anchor
- 2:10 Claw Anchor
- 4:05 Anchor Pole
- 5:00 Drift Anchor
- 7:55 Other Anchors
Quick takeaways
- Match the anchor to where you paddle instead of buying the same one everyone else has.
- An anchor line float helps you avoid losing your anchor.
- Anchor trolleys and a Scotty anchor lock help you control and secure the line.
Gear from this video
Affiliate links: some of these links earn KayakDIY a commission at no extra cost to you. Links and codes are from the original video description, so prices and availability may have changed. Affiliate disclosure.
- Buy Folding Anchor
- Buy Claw/Bruce Anchor
- Buy Mushroom Anchor
- Buy Anchor Pole/Stake
- Buy Anchor Trolley
- Buy Scotty Anchor Lock
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