7 Best Kayak Anchors (2023 Reviews and Guide)

Choosing the best kayak anchor can be a challenge. Many options are available, and it can be hard to determine which will be best for you.

This post will go over some of the most popular kayak anchors on the market and what they offer that makes them unique. We’ll also provide some tips on how to find your ideal anchor!

When you find the perfect fishing spot, you want to stay there as long as possible and catch as many fish as possible. You don’t want to drift away, put your fishing rod down and paddle back through your fishing hole.

A kayak anchor is ideal for helping you catch more fish when you find the right spot!

The best kayak fishing anchor is the one that will work for your setup. There are many types of anchors, all with pros and cons. We will review all of this to find the right kayak anchor for your fishing needs.

In a hurry? Here’s our top pick.

Best Kayak Anchor Reviews

As we mentioned, choosing the perfect kayak anchor is difficult, but it doesn’t have to be.

Let’s go over some of the most popular anchors on the market, along with what they offer that makes them special.

Best Marine Kayak Anchor

Sale
Best Marine and Outdoors Kayak Anchor, 3.5 Pound Anchor System for Kayaks, Canoes, SUP Paddle Boards & Jet Skis, Fishing, Boating & Kayaking Accessories
  • Versatility: Perfect for a kayak, paddleboard, canoe or jet ski
  • Galvanized Iron: Protection in both saltwater and freshwater
  • 40ft Rope: Longer rope allows for increased horizontal drag
  • Shackle: Attach rope or chain to either end of your anchor
  • Storage Bag: Keeps components organized & prevents scratches

The Best Marine kayak anchor is made from galvanized iron, which is rust-resistant and durable.Β  The anchor weighs 3.5 pounds and folds up, so it can easily be stored on your kayak.Β 

The anchor is easy to use and comes with a 40-foot rope, a nylon storage bag, a buoy ball, and a carabiner clip. It’s easy to toss overboard and will keep your kayak firmly in place.

To use the anchor, slide the collar up, open the flukes, slide the collar back down, and toss the anchor overboard.

You can use this with an anchor trolley or a drag anchor if you are drifting. Be careful around rock jetties because they catch everything, including kayak anchors.Β 

Pros:

  • Easy to use
  • Easy to store
  • Durable
  • Rust resistant

Cons:

  • The rope isn’t the best
  • It might be heavy for specific applications

Gradient Fitness Marine Anchor

Gradient Fitness Kayak Anchor | Paddle Board Anchor, Small Boat and Canoe Anchors, Jet Ski Anchor, Jetski Accessory, PWC Anchor, Kayak Anchor Kit.
  • π…πŽπ‹πƒπˆππ† π€ππ‚π‡πŽπ‘: Our 3.5 lb 4-fluke folding...
  • π‚πŽππ•π„ππˆπ„ππ‚π„: The fluke anchor folds into a 12” x...
  • πŒπ€π‘πˆππ„ 𝐆𝐑𝐀𝐃𝐄: The small boat anchor is rust...
  • πƒπ„π’πˆπ†ππ„πƒ π…πŽπ‘ 𝐓𝐇𝐄...
  • 𝐄𝐀𝐒𝐄 πŽπ… πƒπ„ππ‹πŽπ˜πŒπ„ππ“ &...

This folding anchor from Gradient Fitness is compact and convenient. Weighing 3.5 pounds, you can easily store the anchor on your kayak and deploy it when needed.

The kayak anchor is designed to be rust-resistant and comes with 25 feet of rope. In addition, a flotation buoy (PVC), rope, stainless steel clip, and a carry bag are included. 

The clip can be used in various places on your kayak, so you can quickly move the anchor location on your boat. The grapnel anchor will grab onto many different environments, lakes, rivers, sandy, rocky, etc. 

As with most grapnel kayak anchors, it makes sense to tie the rope to the bottom of the anchor so you can break the anchor free if needed.  You can see the video towards the end of this article for more information.

The Gradient Fitness kayak anchor kit includes everything you need to drop your anchor. If you are in the market for one of the best kayak anchors available, this one should be on your list.

Pros:

  • Lightweight and durable
  • Convenient
  • Rust-resistant
  • Easy to store
  • Easy to use clip for anchor placement

Cons:

  • The rope might not be long enough
  • Saltwater can be rough on the anchor

Extreme Max 3006.6548 BoatTector Complete Grapnel Anchor Kit

Sale
Extreme Max 3006.6548 BoatTector Complete Grapnel Anchor Kit for Small Boats, Kayaks, PWC, Jet Ski, Paddle Boards, etc. - 3.5 lbs.
  • Complete PWC anchor kit includes 3.5 lb. anchor, 25' rope and snap hook, marker buoy...
  • Anchor: Folding 3. 5 lb. grapnel anchor, ideally suited for use in coral, rocky, or...
  • Rope: 25' hollow braid polythene rope with steel snap hook
  • Marker Buoy: Durable marine-grade foam
  • Storage Bag: Sturdy nylon storage bag with protective padding

The Extreme Max folding grapnel kayak anchor kit includes 25 feet of rope, a snap-on clip, a storage bag, and a marker buoy, everything you need to get started.

The 3.5-pound anchor is ideal for coral, rocky bottoms, or bottom areas with heavy vegetation.  The marker buoy is made from marine-grade foam and is made to last.

The snap clip is easy to use and allows you to attach the anchor to different points on your kayak.Β  You can combine this with an anchor trolley to hold you in place.

You can use this anchor on various watercraft, including kayaks, paddleboards, canoes, or other small watercraft.  The only thing you might need is more rope; 25 feet can run out quickly.

Pros:

  • Snap clip is easy to use
  • It folds up for easy storage
  • It comes with everything you need
  • It can be used on various watercraft

Cons:

  • Rope length might not be enough
  • It might require you to re-tie the rope to the bottom of the anchor

 Brocraft Kayak/Canoe Anchor Lock System

Brocraft Anchor Lock System with Fishing Kayak Track Adaptor/Kayak Track Anchor System
  • Includes Brocraft Anchor lock system , Track Adapter,Not include anchor and Rope
  • Designed to fit most brand kayak track systems
  • Fiber-glass Injected Nylon construction,
  • Quick release removable mounting system,360 degrees rotation
  • aluminum Track and Anchor Not Include

The Brocraft kayak anchor kit is unique because it uses an existing track on your kayak as the attachment point.  Please note that the anchor is not included.  This anchor system is convenient if your kayak is set up for this already, and it’s a great addition.

The anchor pulley system has some pros and cons.Β  Pros are that you can quickly drop the anchor overboard and pull it back up and have a dedicated spot for your kayak anchor.

The cons are that you are somewhat limited with where you can attach your anchor since you are limited to the extent of your track system.

The Brocraft anchor lock system fits various track systems and has a quick-release mount and locking system. This allows you to quickly and easily lift and reposition the anchor as needed.

Pros:

  • Easy to set up with a track system
  • Smooth pulley system
  • Quick-release

Cons:

  • It does not come with a rope

YakGear Deluxe Anchor Trolley Kit

YakGear Deluxe Anchor Trolley Kit
  • Deluxe anchor trolley system with Harken pulleys
  • Allows the bow of your vessel to turn in to the current for a smoother experience
  • Mini zig zag cleat included to maintain stable positioning
  • Installation instructions and hardware included
  • Kit also includes 30-Feet of rope

An anchor trolley is excellent for helping you stay in position and keep the kayak pointed in the right direction. You want to stay there as long as possible when you find the fish.

The YakGear Deluxe anchor trolley kit installs quickly and easily.Β  It also slides easily to the front and back to get the perfect position or adjust your position as needed.

Once the anchor trolley is set, it’s easy to secure the anchor with the mini zig zag cleat on the side of your kayak.

The kayak anchor kit includes 30 feet of rope and has everything you need to have a functional anchor trolley on your kayak.  You can install this kit on either a sit-on-top or sit-inside kayak.

One thing to keep in mind is that you will have to install this on your kayak.  Be careful because the self-tapping screws will stick through the cockpit area, so choose your install location wisely.

YakGear is one of the best kayak anchors available.

Pros:

  • Simple and easy to use
  • It comes with everything you need for a complete anchor trolley
  • Works well to keep your kayak in place

Cons:

  • You have to drill holes in your yak

YakGear – YakStick Floating Stake-Out Stick – 6 Foot

YakGear - YakStick Floating Stake-Out Stick - 6 Foot
  • Floating Stake-Out Stick
  • 6-foot stick weighs 22oz
  • Anchor rope attachment molded in handle
  • Made of rigid fiberglass with an oversized foam grip
  • Handle and pick are made of nylon

One of the many benefits of kayak fishing is to fish in shallow water that other boats can’t get to. You can access marshes and flats that are home to great fishing!

With a Yakstick, you can be stealthy in your approach and find these feeding fish. Then, using the bottom of the waterway, you can use the YakStick to propel yourself into position.

If you have a stand-up kayak, you can see where the schools of fish areas you get in position; this is great for sight fishing.

You can then jam the YakStick into the sandy bottom, hook up your anchor trolley, and you’re set. The great thing about the YakStick is it floats. So you don’t have to worry about it sinking to the bottom.

The YakStick is made of fiberglass, so it’s durable and has an oversized foam grip. 

Pros:

  • Easy to use
  • Different lengths available
  • Durable fiberglass construction
  • No installation required

Cons:

  • You need to have an anchor trolley

OLIVIA & AIDEN 2 Pack Grapnel Anchor Kit

OLIVIA & AIDEN 2 Pack Grapnel Anchor Kit (3.5 lb) with 40ft Marine Rope and Buoy | Portable, Compact Accessory for Canoe, Jon Boat, Jet Ski, Paddle Board, SUP | Folding Kayak Anchor
  • ULTRA-PORTABLE BOAT ANCHOR – Ideal for small fishing Jon boats, kayaks and canoes,...
  • IMPROVED STRENGTH AND HOLD – Crafted with galvanized steel this jet ski anchor...
  • BUOY BALL AND DRAG LINE – Each canoe anchor also includes a 40ft grapnel anchor...
  • MULTIPURPOSE PERSONAL USE – A compact, easy-to-store size, it works well for...
  • SATISFACTION GUARANTEED - We take pride in our Olivia & Aiden Folding Dinghy Anchor....

This set is perfect if you are paddling with a partner and need two kayak anchors. Each anchor comes with a buoy ball, 40-foot dragline, carabiner clip, and a carry bag.

Each folding anchor weighs 3.5 pounds and is great for kayaks, paddleboards, canoes, and other small watercraft. The fluke is well-balanced and holds well to various surfaces and objects.

You may need to tie the rope to the bottom of the anchor using the zip-tie method described in the video below. This allows you to set the anchor free in case it gets stuck.

The carabiner clip allows you to attach the anchor where you want it on your kayak. So if you are looking for a two-pack of kayak anchors, check these out.

Pros:

  • Great for two paddlers or a tandem kayak
  • It comes with everything you need
  • Easy to use and durable

Cons:

  • The ropes could be stronger
  • The bag tears easily

How to Choose the Best Kayak Anchor

Kayak fishing accessories are a must if you want to catch fish. There are many things to keep in mind when you are looking for the right kayak anchor. Things like, do you have enough space on your kayak? Does your kayak have the weight capacity for all your fishing gear, including an anchor?

Fortunately, there are many shapes, sizes, and designs of kayak anchors, many of which are lightweight.Β  Here are some tips to keep in mind when shopping for the ideal anchor.

Kayak Anchor Design

Kayak anchors have different types of designs, such as:

  • Grapnel
  • Mushroom
  • Claw
  • Sandbag
  • Spike

Some people resort to using a series of heavy-duty chains to adjust the weight as needed.Β 

Grapnel anchors are a popular design since this is a folding anchors with “wings” that open up. This will help the anchor stay in place in currents or when there is an uneven bottom surface.

One of the benefits of a grapnel kayak anchor is that they are relatively lightweight and easy to use. This combination makes the anchor ideal for storing on a kayak.

You may also find sand spikes or sandbag anchor systems that work well in certain situations. For example, a spike can work well to keep you in place if you are fishing in shallow water with a sandy bottom.Β 

A sandbag anchor is a dry bag that you use as an anchor. You can fill the bag with rocks, sand, or anything else you have handy. Then, squeeze the air out, roll the top down and snap the opening shut. Viola, an instant kayak anchor.

Kayak anchors come in various shapes and sizes, so check the specs before buying one. In addition, anchors for larger fishing vessels may not work well for smaller kayaks, so be sure to compare dimensions before purchasing.

With so many different shapes and sizes, choosing one that will work with your kayak is essential. The grapnel design is popular for kayaks because it holds well in currents or when the bottom surface has uneven terrain. However, one downside to this type of anchor is that they can be difficult to move once you get them securely set.

Kayaks Anchors Come In Various Shapes and Sizes

Kayak anchors come in many different shapes and sizes. It’s important to know what type of bottom surface you’ll be fishing on before choosing the perfect anchor. The wrong type of anchor will cause your boat to get stuck, and it could be difficult to remove!

Kayak Anchor Size

This is arguably the most critical part of choosing your perfect kayak anchor because it will determine where and what type of bottom surface you’ll be fishing on.

You must be mindful of the anchor size since your kayak has a weight limit. So, you need to factor in the weight of the kayak anchor into your gear. But, you also need the anchor to do its job, so this can be a delicate balance.

For example, if your kayak is small and lightweight, you’ll need a smaller anchor that can get buried into the bottom to keep your boat in place.Β 

On the other hand, if your kayak is larger or has a lot of weight, you’ll need an anchor with more pull power that can provide stability on all types of surfaces.

Choose the right size and shape for your needs. Look at the kayak’s dimensions and weight capacity before making a purchase.

This is arguably one of the most important parts when choosing your perfect anchor. Your vessel needs to support you and your kayak fishing gear, including the anchor.

Kayak Anchor Rode and Scope

A long scope will give you more room to move your kayak, but it will also make the anchor challenging to bring back on board. A shorter scope may be ideal for anglers who struggle with their kayak tipping over because it will provide a short trip to retrieve the anchor.

It’s also important to choose a rode that is made from high-quality materials. The weakest part of your setup is the rope, and this is most likely what will snap before your anchor does.

Some people might worry about nylon ropes being susceptible to UV rays, so they recommend polyester ropes instead.

Choosing an anchor with enough pulling power for your type of kayak and fishing preferences is essential. A long scope will give you more room to move your boat, but it also makes the anchor hard to retrieve. On the other hand, a shorter scope provides a short trip when retrieving an anchor.

Weight vs. Seating

Every kayak fishing anchor has weight and seating requirements which should also be considered before purchase, as these are fundamental to how well the anchor will hold your kayak in place.

For example, if you have a small kayak and use an anchor with high weight requirements, it’ll be difficult for the anchor to stay buried in the bottom surface. The same thing can happen when there is too much seating depth which will cause your kayak to break free from its hold on the ground.

Kayak Anchor Storage

One of the most critical parts when choosing your perfect anchor is storage.Β  It’s important to ensure you have enough room for your kayak’s anchor and any other gear.

For example, if you’re using a grapnel style of anchor, it can take up much more room than an egg-shaped one. Grapnel anchors are usually longer and heavier, so storing them in the wrong spot on your boat could cause damage.

How to Mount a Kayak Fishing Anchor

To mount your kayak fishing anchor securely on your kayak, you’ll need to tie the anchor directly to a part of the boat. One popular place is near the front or back of the kayak so that you can access it in an emergency.

If your anchor has a long chain, it can be secured by tying it around one of the other objects on board, such as a fishing pole or a life preserver. Make sure that it’s secure and won’t move around when casting off.

Kayak Anchor Trolley

A kayak anchor trolley is a pulley system that lets you adjust your kayak whenever necessary, whether the wind or current has shifted it. A strap is attached to the kayak, and the anchor line can be pulled along with the boat.

When it’s not in use, the chain and anchor are stored inside of the trolley so that they’re safe and protected. This allows you to have your hands completely free while fishing, rather than having to constantly hold on to your anchor or tie it securely to your kayak.

To install a kayak anchor trolley, you must attach your harness straps around both sides of the front or back of your kayak. This way, when you cast off, your anchor will be anchored from the beginning and won’t slip away when set up.

The rest of the process is simple. You’ll tie your anchor to one side of the trolley and pull it along while fishing. Then, when there’s no need for it, store it in its designated spot until next time!

How to Remove a Stuck Kayak Anchor

What happens if your anchor gets stuck on a rock, tree, or obstacle? First, for safety reasons, you must break your kayak free from the anchor or get the anchor unstuck.

Most grapnel anchors come with a rope attached to the top of the anchor, which is great until you get stuck.  Fortunately, these anchors also come with (or should come with) a point on the bottom of the anchor where you can attach the rope.

Many kayak anglers remove the rope from the top of the anchor and reattach the rope to the bottom.Β  Then, run the rope up the side of the anchor to the top eye and zip-tie it there.Β 

A good hard tug should break the rope free from the top of the anchor and allow you to pull the anchor away from rocks, etc., from the bottom.

Check out this video for more info.

You should be prepared to cut the rope and forget about your anchor if all else fails.Β  Hopefully, that doesn’t happen, but it might be necessary.

FAQ’s

How Heavy Should a Kayak Anchor Be?

Many kayak anglers prefer a grapnel anchor that weighs between 1.5-3.5 pounds. Grapnel anchors fold and are easy to store. This size is great for lakes, slow-moving rivers, and general calm conditions. If you paddle waterways with strong currents or wind, you will want a heavier anchor.

Do I Need a Kayak Anchor?

Well, it depends. If you fish in deeper water, you might need an anchor to hold you in place. Or if you fish in windy conditions or water with a current, an anchor can come in very handy.

Conclusion

Hopefully, this article has helped you find the perfect kayak anchor to fit your needs. Choosing a kayak anchor can be difficult, but it’s important to think about the different features of each one and how they will affect your fishing experience.

For example, if you need an easy way to pull up anchors from deep water, a grapnel style may work best for you. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a more versatile anchor that offers quick storage when not in use, we recommend using a trolley system.

Let me know if you have any questions or comments below.

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About the author
Steve Morrow
Steve Morrow owns Paddle About, an outdoor recreation and travel blog. Steve loves to travel, kayak, paddle board, camp, hike, and spend time outdoors with his wife and two kids. When he's not exploring the great outdoors, Steve enjoys writing about his adventures and sharing tips for getting the most out of your outdoor experiences. He has a lot of interesting stories to share, and he's always happy to help others get more out of life.