Windlass or Buoy?

[Pitch Pocket]

I have to decide whether to have them install an anchor windlass on the new 24’ SeaSport. It’ll be in the Columbia a lot so I need the hook and an efficient way to pull it. I use the buoy puller method in the sled, but one option on the SeaSport is the windlass. I’m not thrilled about the jury-rigging needed to pull the line from the stern, and I don’t want my anchor on the deck. Does the windlass do the trick? Anyone have much experience in the Columbia with one? Do I need the balloon if I have a winch?

[Pete]

Part of the reason for using a buoy type puller is to lift the anchor without pulling your boat down. With a windlass and a stuck anchor you run the risk of pulling your boat under. Same deal with pulling the anchor from the stern, it is something you never want to do! You might consider using the windlass to retreive your rope after pulling the anchor up with a buoy. I'm not familiar with the configuration of your specific boat, but if you aren't pulling from bow, you're asking for trouble. One solution is to do your pulling from the bow, but when the rope is nearly retrieved you can lift the anchor over the gunnell. At least that would avoid putting the anchor on the front deck.

[urb]

I'm not sure on what part of the river you're operating on but, on the lower river a anchor capstan is pretty usefull. The problem I've seen with them is that they're kind of slow to let out line. I assume you're not talking about a anchor winch because that's a whole differant story. I suggest you have a strong anchor chock because they do pull pretty hard.If the wind is blowing good be sure to have a cleat to tie to because the windlass will not hold a 24' boat. I have a 25 footer but, no winch. I get my fishing buddy to pull in the slack while I idle ahead until you're right above the anchor.With a little pull astern the anchor will come right up. that's in mud or sand.

[Pitch Pocket]

The Simpson Lawrence Horizon 600 is a freefall windlass so the drop shouldn't be too long. According to what I have learned, the drop and pull is completely automatic controlled from the helm. My wife is tired of hoisting the hook and chain over the side. Looks like I'm spending the money.

[Grass Hopper]

sooner or later electronics break. Take it from the pros. Including Alaska charter boat captains. Pull with the ball, its quicker, safer(doesn't pull the bow down) and less expensive. Yet you alwaws pull from the bow. Start upstream on a tangent and make a hook around your line as to avoid prop tangles. AND ALWAYS KEEP A KNIFE HANDY WHEN AT ANCHOR IN THE COLUMBIA>