Anchor System?

Firedog · 06-28-2001, 05:35 AM

Ok my question is do you prefer side mount system or the one in
the middle of the transom for drift boat anchors? My boat came
witht he side mount, ok I ordered it that way not knowing any
diferent. And I was wondering the benifits and drawbacks of both. I
did see a boat the other day with both on it and made me think
that in some situations one would be better than the other. Being
new to the whole driftboating thing. What is your preference on
anchor weights also? My boat is 17'. Thanks

Master Baiter · 06-28-2001, 06:53 AM

Firedog,

I have both. My boat came with the center mount and when I got my motor I had to get the side mount. I still put the center back on in the winter when not running the motor. I have not noticed any significant difference though. The line that you hold is a little different, the center holds line directly below the anchor while the side mount holds you slightly offset. As far as swinging goes, neither solves the issue. The center may swing a little worse in some conditions. My boat is a 16x48.

Thomas

Big Willie · 06-28-2001, 07:30 AM

Firedog, my 16 x 54 Willie came with the side mount system. I wanted that so I could use my motor. It has worked just fine. A little trick...when anchored in current, turn your oar blades 90� to the water where they can act like rudders and help keep the boat straight. I've heard some say that the center mount makes a difference, I don't see how it could make that much if any. As far as anchor weights, go with a 35lb. Most boats come with a 30, but that extra 5 lbs makes a huge difference, even more so with a 17'. Good luck and have fun with your boat!

Fish Hunter · 06-28-2001, 08:25 AM

I do the same as Big Willie, side mount on a 17x54 Willie, only I've added "Oar Rights" to the oars to hold them at 90 deg. in the oarlocks. You can mount them high enough on the oar so they won't interfere with your rowing if you prefer.

moman · 06-28-2001, 08:26 AM

The previous owner of my boat came up with a great to the motor/anchor dilemma with the help of a machinist. He maching a stainless plate for the back with a femaile tongue-in-groove receiver, then built motor mount and anchor system to drop into the plate. I switch them as needed. Its likely a costly proposition unless you have all the tools but a heck of an idea. I use a 10 or a 34 depending on current.

Fish Hunter · 06-28-2001, 08:27 AM

Also I wouldn't go any lower than a 35# anchor on that boat.

Firedog · 06-28-2001, 04:26 PM

Thanks for the info. I think I will probably install a center mount on the transom also. Going to get a lighter anchor also. I have a 40# right now. Thanks again. Firedog

bob b · 06-28-2001, 07:56 PM

My 1977 alumaweld 16*48 has a tongue and groove slip off transom. For years I used a center pull, can't do it any more. Installed a side pull works great. When using a 7.5 merc. or electric I pull the plate and tie a 35lb. anchor to a rear gunnel and throw over to anchor. I don't do this in fast water.

NEUTRON · 06-29-2001, 06:40 AM

Firedog, I had a 40# and really liked it.
Here is a good way to keep the weight but
make it much easier to pull up. Go to
wilco and find a Pulley with swivel attachment, I got a 3" and a connecting link for about $12.00. Run your anchor line thru
the pulley and connect* to the arm that hangs off the back of your boat. *I drilled a hole
thru mine and put a 5/8" bolt to connect the rope there. I have seen quite a few people use something like this, it makes pulling the anchor very easy.