Do you own a paddleboard or a kayak and wish you could anchor it at your favorite location for meditation, yoga, or fishing? Well, then this article is for you. We will discuss the best paddleboard anchors and Kayak anchors and provide you with all the necessary selection tips.
A good anchor is a vital accessory when floating on the water in your standup paddleboard (SUP)/kayak. The anchor can enhance your experience on the water in multiple ways.
You can anchor your SUP and do many activities, viz. practice yoga, fishing at your preferred fishing spot, photography, swimming or snorkeling and coming back for a lie down on your paddleboard, watch the birds, meditation, or simply lie down on the paddleboard and soak in the blissful nature.
The different types of anchors reviewed in this article are grapnel type, pivoting fluke type, scoop type, sandbag type, and shallow water anchor pin.
The grapnel type is the most popular anchor for paddleboards and is good for sandy, muddy, and rocky waterbeds. Pivoting fluke type is suitable for muddy and sandy water beds, scoop type is suitable for most of the waterbeds (grass, mud, and sand), and sandbag type are suitable for a waterbed that does not have sharp objects (suitable for sandy and muddy, and not suitable for rocky waterbeds). Finally, a shallow water anchor pin is suitable for anchoring on sandy shores and shallow waters.
Review of Best Paddleboard Anchors / Kayak Anchors in 2024
Best Grapnel Type Anchors
- BOAT TECTOR Extreme Max 3006.6548 BoatTector Complete Grapnel Anchor Kit
- Best Marine Folding Kayak Rust-Resistant Galvanized Anchor, 3.5 lb.
- Gradient Fitness Marine Anchor, 3.5 lbs. Folding Anchor, Grapnel Anchor Kit
- JET LOGIC – Personal Watercraft Grapnel Folding Anchor System
Best Pivoting Fluke Type Anchors
Best Scoop Type Anchors
Best Sandbag Type Anchors
Best Shallow Water Anchor Pins
How to choose your paddleboard anchor?
The following information may make you a little wiser and help you decide.
A good anchor is an important accessory for your SUP/kayak and can enhance your experience with the paddleboard and take it to a new level. Your paddleboard becomes very versatile with the addition of an anchor. The activities you can do with an anchor are practicing yoga, fishing at your preferred fishing spot, photography, swimming or snorkeling, watching the birds, meditating, or simply lying down on the paddleboard and enjoying nature. Let us explore this further.
Yoga: A stationery paddleboard allows you to practice yoga peacefully in the graceful ambiance of nature, and you can select your preferred location.
Fishing: When the paddleboard is anchored and remains stationary, you have all the time to concentrate on fishing, and you can choose an advantageous location.
Swimming and snorkeling: An anchored paddleboard helps you enjoy a swim and snorkeling in the cold refreshing water, and when you get bored or tired, you can return to the paddleboard and lie flat. The anchor removes the worry of the paddleboard drifting away from you when you are busy enjoying swimming.
Photography: You can anchor the paddleboard at your favorite points to click photos of the beauty of nature, sunset, etc.
Bird watching, meditation, etc.: You can see many birds when you are on the water and not on the land. You can anchor your paddleboard at a good spot and lie down flat to enjoy nature and watch the beautiful birds. You can also do meditation.
Types of anchors
We shall discuss and review the following types of anchors in this article:
- Grapnel anchor.
- Pivoting fluke-type anchor.
- Scoop-type anchor.
- Sandbag-type anchor.
- Shallow water anchor pin.
The parts of a normal anchor are:
- The anchor is made of metal
- A buoy ball
- A marine quality rope of the required length
- A snap hook
One end of the marine rope is tied to the anchor by a secure knot, and the other end of the rope has the buoy and a carabiner coupling link for attaching it to the D-ring of the paddleboard. The buoy floats and shows the location of the anchor. You can add a length of metal chain between the metal anchor and the rope; some users feel this improves the anchoring.
Grapnel anchor: Grapnel anchor is the popular anchor style and a favorite of inflatable paddleboard users. This anchor has four foldable flukes, and the folded anchor is compact and suitable for carrying. These anchors are lightweight, affordable, and can quickly hold on to sandy, muddy, and rocky terrains. The flukes enable a stronghold against the wind and the water current but can get entangled on the terrain covered with weeds and vegetation. This anchor can be foldable or non-foldable and comes with a plated or painted surface.
Pivoting fluke-type anchor: The pivoting fluke-type anchor has two flukes positioned apart. This lightweight anchor has a robust holding ability due to the flukes. The flukes are designed to dig into the water floor, and their long pivoted shank aids in digging deep. This anchor holds firmly and can withstand moderate water currents or wind changes. This anchor functions well in mud and sand but is not good for other waterbeds. The mud can stick to the flukes of this anchor and needs cleaning after every use.
Scoop-type anchors: The fluke of this anchor resembles a shovel and is concave in shape. If you have a shovel, just take out its handle and weld a shank to it; that can be your scoop-type anchor. This anchor digs deep into the water bed (just like a shovel) and provides the strength to anchor your paddleboard.
The scoop-type anchors are flexible and can work on most water beds (sandy, muddy, weedy, etc.). Scoop anchors work well in moderate wind, and more wind makes the anchor dig deeper into the water bed. However, when the anchor comes up, be ready to clean all the mud, it brings along with it. Also, since this anchor digs deep into the water bed, you require patience to pull it up.
Sandbag anchor: The sandbag anchor is very simple. Apart from the other parts, the anchor is an empty waterproof, and closable bag. You must carry it to your location, fill the bag with the stipulated amount of sand, and close the bag tight before using it. The bag has the facility to close securely (after the sand is filled) and use the D-rings on the bag to link it to the rope. Push out any excess air from the bag.
Attach this anchor to your paddleboard D-ring and slowly drop the sandbag into the water. The first limitation of this anchor is the availability of sand at the location, and the second limitation is the bottom should not be rocky. A rocky bottom can tear the sandbag and make it useless.
Shallow water anchor pin anchor: This is a simple type of anchor suitable for shallow water and sandy shores. Using this anchor is very simple. Tie one end of the rope to the T-handle with a secure knot, and tie the other end of the rope to a snap clip. Dig the anchor stick into the water bed using the T-handle. Connect the other end of the rope to the D-ring of your paddleboard. If the water current and wind conditions are more than moderate, you may use two anchor pins (one each in front and rear).
Few important things you should consider when selecting an anchor for your paddleboard.
You can find numerous types of anchors in the market with different price tags. Consider the following factors to decide on a suitable anchor for you.
Anchor material: The anchor is made from ordinary steel or stainless steel. Stainless steel is rust-proof and is perfect for fresh or seawater. The anchor made from ordinary steel is either galvanized or painted and has slight corrosion resistance but may get rusted when continuously used in saltwater. The rope used for the anchor should be of marine quality and preferably of bright color for visibility even in less light. The clips on the anchor should be of stainless steel or aluminum to make it rust-proof.
Anchoring procedure: Anchoring is a simple process. You can have a carabiner coupling link for attaching the anchor rope to the D-ring of the paddleboard. Select your anchoring location, watch the water current and the direction of the wind, drop the anchor from the rear side of the paddleboard to the required depth, ensure the anchor is firmly gripping the floor, and insert the anchor hook to the D-ring on the paddleboard. Now you are ready for your activity.
Be careful when dropping the anchor into the water; the anchor can bounce against the inflatable paddleboard and damage it. Also, ensure the knots of the anchor rope are correct and secure (you may lose the anchor if the knot is not secure).
When you are finished, lift the anchor up, clean it, and place it in its bag securely.
Total weight of the paddleboard: The total weight will include the paddleboard weight, your weight, and the weight of the accessories and gear on board. Or you can simply add the maximum weight allowed on the paddleboard to the weight of the paddleboard to get the total weight (do not exceed the maximum weight). The experts suggest that you need ½ pound of anchor weight for every 100 pounds of the paddleboard weight.
Depth of water: The water depth at your anchoring spot is important and decides the length of the anchor rope required. The anchor’s rope should be sufficient to reach the bottom of the water.
Freshwater or saltwater: You may anchor in fresh river water or salty seawater. The anchor should be able to work in both fresh and saltwater.
Weather and water current: Weather is another important factor, and you must study the weather and water current in your preferred places. You may spend your time peacefully on an anchored paddleboard, and your peace can be disturbed by a strong wind or waves. You cannot fight Mother Nature, so you better adapt to it. Selecting an anchor of the proper shape and a little extra weight may help you anchor in a location of moderate weather and water current.
The terrain of the water body: The bed or floor of the water can be sand, muddy, terrain covered with weeds or rocky terrain. You have to select an anchor suitable for the terrain of your anchoring location.
Weight of the anchor: Considering all the factors discussed above and depending on the type of anchor and its material, the anchor weight for an ISUP/kayak can be up to 4 pounds. Also, you can go by the recommendation of the manufacturer or the seller. However, this criterion does not apply to sandbag anchors.
Budget: The anchors are affordable and do not dent your pocket.
Where to buy: Amazon is one good place for online purchases. You have a wide selection to make your choice, and the user reviews help you to understand the product better. You can also ask your questions about the product and clarify from the seller, and you can directly talk to the seller to clarify your doubts. Another good place to buy from is West Marine stores; they offer good quality products at reasonable prices.
Warranty: This is another important factor. Please study and understand the warranty period and warranty clauses clearly. Ask for clarifications if you are in doubt.
Before you venture to anchor: Once you have purchased the anchor, study and learn how to use it, many people have lost their anchors for various reasons. Learn the technique of anchoring from your friends or watch videos.
Now you are good to venture into anchoring.
Review of Best SUP Anchors / Kayak Anchors
Best Grapnel Type Anchors
1. BOAT TECTOR Extreme Max 3006.6548 BoatTector Complete Grapnel Anchor Kit
BOAT TECTOR is a folding type 3.5 pounds grapnel anchor with four flukes, and you can use it for your inflatable paddleboards, Jet Skis, kayaks, and small personal watercraft. You can quickly open or close the flukes and lock them using the central locking ring.
Use this anchor for coral, muddy, rocky, and thick weed water beds. The kit has 25 feet 1/4ʺ size rope with a buoy and a snap hook at one end. Connect the snap hook to the D-ring at the SUP’s rear end and tie the rope’s other end to the anchor with a secure knot. Drop the anchor slowly into the water. The buoy indicates the location of the anchor.
This anchor is galvanized and painted red and has resistance against rusting.
Key features of the product:
The kit: This personal watercraft (PWC) anchor kit contains 3.5 pounds anchor, 25 feet rope with a plated steel snap hook, a marine foam marker buoy, and a durable polyester storage bag.
Anchor design: Folding type grapnel anchor for small personal watercraft and paddleboards. The anchor weighs 3.5 pounds, is made from galvanized steel, and is painted red for good visibility. This has a popular four-fluke design, and you can securely lock the flukes in the open and fold conditions by simply twisting the central locking device. You can open or close the flukes in seconds.
Convenience: BOATTECTOR anchor kits are designed for your convenience and come with a marker buoy, and you need not worry about locating your anchor. You can use the durable nylon bag to securely store the folded anchor kit when it is not in use, and the bag is padded to protect your paddleboard from an exposed anchor.
Application: Suitable for water bottom conditions like coral, rocky, and bottom with thick weeds (coral is made up of numerous tiny small creatures called polyps). The BOATTECTOR anchor kit is perfectly suitable for a PWC-like paddleboard.
Other details: The 25 feet good quality hollow braid polyethylene anchor line (1/4ʺ size rope) with plated snap hook connects your paddleboard to the anchor and keeps the paddleboard secure, and the buoy is made from durable marine-grade foam that helps you to locate the anchor.
Warranty: Please get in touch with the seller for the warranty and its terms.
Pros
• Compact 3.5 pounds grapnel anchor.
• Galvanized and painted red.
• Suitable for water bottom conditions like coral, rocky, and bottom with thick weeds.
• Twenty-five feet of hollow braid polyethylene rope (1/4ʺ size) with plated steel snap hook.
• Lightweight and does a good job.
Cons
• The length of the rope (25 feet) is not sufficient.
• The user’s manual does not explain how to use the anchor.
• The foam buoy reliability is questionable.
2. Best Marine Folding Kayak Rust-Resistant Galvanized Anchor, 3.5 lb., Iron Marine Trolley Kit
Best Marine folding kayak anchor is a 3.5 pounds grapnel anchor with four foldable flukes, and you can use it for your kayak, standup paddleboards, canoes, and jet skis. You can swiftly open or close the flukes and lock them with the central locking ring. It measures only 12ʺ ×3ʺ when you fold it and storing it is not an issue.
Grapnel anchors work in muddy, sandy, and rocky water beds. The kit has 40 feet of marine rope, a buoy ball, and a reinforced stainless steel carabiner clip. Connect the carabiner clip to the D-ring at the SUP’s rear end and tie the rope’s other end to the anchor with a secure knot. Drop the anchor slowly into the water. The buoy indicates the location of the anchor.
This anchor is made from galvanized steel and has rust resistance.
Key features of the product:
Design: The 3.5 pounds grapnel anchor is made from galvanized rust-resistant iron, and you can easily snap it into position. Best Marine Folding Kayak Anchor is engineered for long and hard-wearing and stamped for safety, simplicity, and storage.
Kit: This anchor kit includes a grapnel anchor, 40 feet marine rope (1.5 times of most other sellers) with a buoy ball for effortless retrieval, a reinforced stainless steel carabiner clip, and a storage pouch to safely store the anchor.
Convenience: This kit includes a nylon storage bag to carry your Best Marine foldable compact 3.5 pounds anchor, and the bag prevents scratches and damage to your kayak or SUP. Best Marine compact, robust, and reliable 3.5 pounds anchor gives you a free float and peaceful outing on the water to catch a perfect sunset and enjoy the graceful nature. It measures only 12ʺ ×3ʺ when you fold it and storing it is not an issue.
Application: Compact anchor, weighs only 3.5 pounds, is suitable for kayaks, SUP, canoes, and jet skis.
Return policy: The seller promises a 100% money-back guarantee if the user is unsatisfied with the anchor. Please check for the terms and conditions for return.
Our suggestion: We suggests you tie the rope at the end of the grapnel anchor and then attach the rope to the upper arm using a zip tie. Now, if your anchor is snagged/caught in the water floor, pulling the rope breaks the zip tie, and you can retrieve the anchor safely.
How to use your anchor:
- Select your perfect location.
- Slide the anchor collar upwards.
- Open out the four flukes.
- Slide the collar back down to lock the flukes in place.
- Slowly insert the anchor into the water.
- Now, you are ready to do your favorite activity and enjoy blissful nature.
Pros
• It measures only 12ʺ ×3ʺ when you fold it and storing it is not an issue.
• Anchors are made of rust-resistant galvanized iron to make them last longer.
• Included-Nylon storage bag, buoy ball, stainless steel carabiner clip, and 40 feet marine-grade rope.
• The seller promises a 100% money-back guarantee if the user is unsatisfied.
Cons
• The rope material is not the best.
3. Gradient Fitness Marine Anchor, 3.5 lbs. Folding Anchor, Grapnel Anchor Kit
Gradient Fitness Marine Anchor is a folding type 3.5 pounds grapnel anchor with four flukes, and you can use it for your kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards. The anchor’s flukes can be opened or closed quickly and locked with the central locking ring.
You can use this anchor for water beds with sand, weeds, mud, or rocks. The kit has 7 mm thick 25 feet of green or black marine-grade rope, a PVC flotation buoy, and stainless steel snap hook. Connect the snap hook to the D-ring at the SUP’s rear end and tie the rope’s other end to the anchor with a secure knot. Drop the anchor slowly into the water. The buoy indicates the location of the anchor.
This anchor is rust-resistant and painted green. Anchor folds into a compact 12ʺ ×3ʺ size, and you can store it in the padded nylon bag.
They promise 100% money back if unsatisfied and return within 90 days.
Key features of the product:
Folding grapnel anchor: The Gradient Fitness Marine anchor is a 3.5 pounds, four flukes, foldable, and compact anchor and is convenient to use. The anchor is rust-resistant, durable, and made for professional and personal use.
Convenient: This anchor folds into a compact 12ʺ ×3ʺ size, and you can store it safely in the included padded nylon storage bag. The padded bag protects the paddleboard from the metal anchor and prevents damage.
Kit: The kit includes the anchor, 25 feet of 7 mm green/black marine-grade rope, stainless steel snap hook, buoy, and padded nylon bag.
Marine quality: The anchor is rust-resistant and painted and comes with 7 mm thick, 25 feet green or black marine-grade rope, a PVC flotation buoy, and stainless steel snap hook for quick and easy connection.
Designed for outdoor use: This anchor can be used for SUP yoga or kayak fishing, and you can use this anchor on water beds with sand, weeds, mud, or rocks.
Operated from the USA: Gradient Fitness is owned and operated out of Rochester, New York. They promise 100% money back if not satisfied and returned within 90 days (Please confirm the terms and conditions for return).
Our suggestion: We suggest considering adding a chain for windy conditions.
Pros
• Folds into a compact 12ʺ ×3ʺ size for storing in the nylon storage bag.
• Suitable for sandy, weedy, muddy, or rocky water beds.
• 7 mm thick, 25 feet green or black marine-grade rope, a PVC flotation buoy, and stainless steel snap hook.
• Gradient Fitness operates from the USA.
• The anchor is rust-resistant and painted green.
Cons
• The anchor corrosion protection is not the best.
• The rope quality is not good, and the length is short.
4. JET LOGIC – Personal Watercraft Grapnel Folding Anchor System
JET LOGIC 3 1/3 pounds grapnel folding anchor system has four foldable flukes. Grapnel anchors are normally used for waterbeds with sand, mud, or rocks. You can use it for your inflatable paddleboards and small personal watercraft. You can quickly open or close the flukes and lock them using the central locking ring.
You can use this anchor for sandy, muddy, gravel, rocky, and thick weed water beds. The kit has 25 feet of marine rope with a buoy and stainless steel snap hook. Connect the snap hook to the D-ring at the SUP’s rear end and tie the rope’s other end to the anchor with a secure knot. Drop the anchor slowly into the water. The buoy indicates the location of the anchor.
This anchor is coated to protect its finish and painted red.
Key features of the product:
Design: The JET LOGIC anchor is a complete grapnel anchor system and weighs only 3 1/3 pounds. The anchor is coated to protect its finish and painted red. Compact, lightweight, and easy to store. The dimensions of the anchor are 3.25ʺ height×6.75ʺ width× 13.63ʺ length.
Application: The 3 1/3 pounds anchor can hold in mud, sand, gravel, and rocky water floors.
Convenience: Suitable for temporarily anchoring personal watercraft, small boats, sailboats, inflatable boats, canoes, and tubes. The nylon storage bag is durable and padded to protect the PWC from scratches and dampen the noise.
Kit: Contains the anchor, 25 feet-long marine-grade rope, an inline buoy, and a heavy-duty stainless steel snap hook.
Pros
• Works for small personal watercraft, small boats, sailboats, inflatable boats, canoes, and tubes.
• Has a 25 feet long marine-grade rope, an inline buoy, and a stainless steel snap hook.
• The dimensions of the anchor are 3.25ʺ height×6.75ʺ width× 13.63ʺ length. Compact, lightweight, and easy to store.
• The anchor is coated to protect its finish and painted red.
Cons
• Does not hole beyond 3 feet of water off the beach.
Best Pivoting Fluke Type Anchors
1. West MARINE Traditional Anchor and Rode Packages
The Traditional Anchor and Rode Package are a 4 pounds pivoting fluke-type anchor with two flukes, and the flukes are designed to dig deep into the waterbed. Works in mud and sand water beds. Dimensions of the anchor are 19 1/2″ Shank Length x 14 3/4″ Stock Width x 10 1/2″ Fluke Length.
Suitable for boats and personal watercrafts less than 12 feet. The anchor is galvanized and comes with a 3/16ʺ chain diameter×4 feet length and a 5/16ʺ line (rope) diameter × 100 feet length.
One end of the chain is connected to the anchor, and the other end to the rope. Connect the free end of the rope to the D-ring at the rear end and drop the anchor slowly into the water. The galvanized chain helps settle the anchor.
Key features of the product:
Precision design: The West Marine’s anchor is pivoting fluke type, 4 pounds Traditional Anchor, and these anchors are strong, reliable, good quality, and affordable anchors and have accurate dimensions and hot-dip galvanizing to resist corrosion.
The anchor dimensions are 19 1/2″ Shank Length x 14 3/4″ Stock Width x 10 1/2″ Fluke Length.
This anchor is similar to Danforth anchors and has precision die-cut components (for accuracy and symmetry), a tapered shank with chamfered edges for deeper seabed penetration, and increased stock length and fluke angle for roll stability and dependability.
Package: The package contains the anchor, high-quality galvanized chain, and line (3/16ʺ chain diameter×4 feet length and 5/16ʺ line (rope) diameter × 100 feet length.), West Marine Premium Pre-spliced Three Strand Anchor Line and two galvanized steel screw pin shackles.
Quality: This is designed to handle the dynamic shock loads of the boat movement and has maximum abrasion resistance. The three-strand line costs slightly more, but it is worth the quality. It is made using good quality premium nylon, a uniform construction process, and a marine coating to create abrasion resistance and last longer.
Convenience: Compatible with boats less than 12 feet. The benefits of this anchor are roll stability, dependable, deep penetration, chamfered edges, premium, pre-spliced line, and tapered shank. Suitable for sand and mud water floors.
Warranty: 5 years limited warranty (contact the seller for warranty clauses and conditions).
Pros
• Pivoting fluke type, 4 pounds Traditional Anchor, has accurate dimensions and hot-dip galvanizing to resist corrosion.
• The anchor is galvanized and comes with a 3/16ʺ chain diameter (4 feet length) and a 5/16ʺ line (rope) diameter (100 feet).
• Compatible with boats less than 12 feet.
• Suitable for sand and mud water floors.
• Five years limited warranty.
Cons
• The price of approx. USD 100 is high for beginners.
Best Scoop Type Anchors
1. MANTUS ANCHORS- Stainless Steel Anchor
MANTUS 2.5 pounds stainless steel anchor is a scoop type anchor and digs into the waterbed just like a shovel and provides the strength to anchor your personal watercraft/ paddleboard. This is suitable for a 10 to 16 feet boat length.
Anchor dimensions 9ʺ width× 5ʺ height×11ʺ length. This anchor sets quickly in hard or grassy bottoms and works on water bottoms with sand, clay, mud, grass, and rock.
The anchor is made from a high-quality stainless steel plate and does not contain cast parts. The advantage of stainless steel is it is almost rust-proof and can be used in fresh or seawater. The seller offers a lifetime warranty, including deformation.
Scoop anchors work well in moderate wind, and more wind makes the anchor dig deeper into the water bed. However, when the anchor comes up, be ready to clean all the mud, it brings along with it. Also, since this anchor digs deep into the water bed, you require patience to pull it up.
Key product features:
Design: Made from high-quality stainless steel plate and does not contain cast parts. Shank and shank boots are welded completely from top to bottom. Shank and roll bar are bolted to the fluke. The shank is attached to the fluke with four bolts, even though a single bolt is sufficient to take on the expected load on the anchor.
Fluke is made from superior quality AISI 316 stainless steel plate, and the shank is made from duplex stainless steel to improve strength and resistance to corrosion. The surface is hardened for scratch resistance and is electro-polished. A sharp-headed nose is machined precisely to achieve a perfect chisel shape and maximum penetrating power.
Anchor size: 9ʺ width× 5ʺ height×11ʺ length and 2.5 pounds weight.
Convenience: Sets quickly in hard or grassy bottoms and is suitable for water bottoms with sand, clay, mud, grass, and rock. Suitable for boat lengths 10 to 16 feet.
Warranty: Lifetime warranty including deformation (please get in touch with the seller for warranty clause and conditions).
Pros
• Anchor 9ʺ width× 5ʺ height×11ʺ length and 2.5 pounds weight.
• It sets quickly in hard or grassy bottoms and is suitable for water bottoms with sand, clay, mud, grass, and rock.
• Suitable for boat lengths 10 to 16 feet.
• Lifetime warranty, including deformation.
• Made from a high-quality stainless-steel plate and does not contain cast parts.
Cons
• The cost is high, approx. USD 159.99.
2. MANTUS ANCHORS-MANTUS Dinghy Anchor Pack-Stainless Steel
MANTUS 2.5 pounds stainless steel dinghy anchor is a scoop type anchor and digs into the waterbed just like a shovel and provides the strength to anchor your personal watercraft/ paddleboard. This is suitable for boats less than 16 feet in length.
Anchor dimensions 10ʺ ×7ʺ ×17ʺ and 1/4ʺ stainless steel shackle. This anchor best suits sand and clay waterbed. It comes with a 5/16ʺ line diameter× 50 feet length. Remove the nose cover, connect one end of the rope to the anchor shank and the other end to the rear D-ring of the boat or paddleboard, and slowly drop the anchor into the water.
This dinghy anchor is made from stainless steel, and it is almost rustproof and can be used in fresh or seawater. The seller offers five years limited warranty on this product.
This anchor weighs only 2.5 pounds, but it works well in moderate wind, and more wind makes the anchor dig deeper into the water bed. The negative side of this anchor is it comes up with a lot of mud and needs cleaning, and since this anchor digs deep into the water bed, you require patience to pull it up.
After use, clean the anchor thoroughly, wipe off the water, disassemble, and store it after inserting the nose cap.
Key product features:
Design: Anchor dimensions 10ʺ ×7ʺ ×17ʺ and 1/4ʺ stainless steel shackle, material stainless steel, scoop type, 2.5 pounds weight. Best suitable for sand and clay.
Benefits are dependable, excellent setting ability, compact and easy to store, and Premium Pre-spliced line.
Kit: Stainless steel anchor, 5/16ʺ line diameter× 50 feet length, and the rope ends with a hook for connecting to the anchor.
Convenience: Suitable for kayaks and dinghies that require light anchors and suit various bottom soil conditions. This 2.5-pound MANTUS Dinghy anchor has a good setting ability and is recommended for boats up to 16 feet long.
Warranty: 5 years limited warranty (contact the seller for warranty clause and conditions).
Pros
• Stainless steel, scoop type, 2.5 pounds anchor.
• It has a good setting ability and is recommended for boats up to 16 feet in length.
• 5/16ʺ line diameter× 50 feet length.
• Anchor dimensions 10ʺ ×7ʺ ×17ʺ and 1/4ʺ stainless steel shackle.
• Five years limited warranty.
Cons
• The cost is high, approx. USD 220.
Best Sandbag Type Anchors
1. Obcursco PWC Anchor 2 in 1 Sand Bag Anchor
OBCURSCO PWC anchor 2 in 1 is a sandbag anchor. This is a multipurpose anchor; you can use the 20 L dry bag as an anchor (by filling it with sand) or store your items when the bag is free. The dry bag has 2 D-rings for connecting to the rope. Use it for your kayak, paddleboard, and swim mat.
The dry bag is bright yellow, can hold 50+ pounds of sand/rock/gravel and comes with a handy strap at the bottom to quickly empty the sand. Twelve feet long high, visibility dock rope with buoy and snap hook at both ends are included.
Fill the sand/gravel into the dry bag and close it after driving out the air. Connect one snap hook of the rope to the D-rings of the sandbag and the other snap hook to the D-ring of the paddleboard and drop the sandbag slowly into the water.
Key features of the product:
Design: OBCURSCO PWC Anchor 2 in 1 Sand Bag Anchor is a multipurpose anchor, and you can use the 20 L dry bag as an anchor (by filling it with sand) or store your items when the bag is free. You can just fill the 500D PVC dry bag full of sand, roll and close it, and use it as an anchor.
The handy strap at the bottom helps you quickly empty the sand from the dry bag. The dry bag can hold 50+ pounds of sand.
When you fill the bag with sand, do not forget to flush out the excess air in the sandbag.
Convenience: 12 feet long high visibility dock rope with buoy and snap hook, and it is easy to locate the anchor. Suitable for kayaks, swim mats, and paddleboards.
Anchor rope is made of high-density PE material and can provide a maximum of 2200 lbs. of tension to hold up the anchor and perfectly stabilize the paddleboard.
Pros
• Sand Bag Anchor is a multipurpose anchor. Use the 20 L dry bag as an anchor by filling it with sand, or use the empty bag to store your items.
• A dry bag can hold 50+ pounds of sand.
• Easy to use.
• Suitable for paddleboards, jet skis, inflatable paddleboards, and boats.
• Twelve feet long high, visibility dock rope with buoy and snap hooks.
Cons
• Limited use in shallow water.
2. Skog Å Kust SandSåk 2-in-1 PWC Anchor & Dry Bag
SKOG Å KUST SANDSÅK 2-in-1 PWC Anchor is a sand bag anchor. This is a multipurpose anchor. Use the 20 L dry bag as an anchor (by filling it with sand) or store your items when the bag is free. Use it for your kayaks, surfboards, paddleboards, and light motorized personal watercraft.
The dry bag is made from heavy-duty 500D PVC with welded seams, UTX clips, D-rings, and a comfortable bottom strap for easy and quick emptying of sand.
The dry bag has a bright yellow/green color, can hold 50+ pounds of sand/rock/gravel, and comes with a handy strap at the bottom to quickly empty the sand. 1/2ʺ diameter ×12 feet long braided floating rope with foam buoy and two stainless steel 316 rust-proof snap hooks are included.
Fill the sand/gravel into the dry bag and close it after driving out the air. Connect one snap hook of the rope to the D-rings of the sandbag and the other snap hook to the D-ring of the paddleboard and drop the sandbag slowly into the water.
The seller says a satisfaction and money-back guarantee back the product.
Key features of the product:
Design: SKOG Å KUST SANDSÅK 2-in-1 PWC sand Bag Anchor is a multipurpose anchor, and you can use the 20 L dry bag as an anchor (by filling it with sand) or store your items when the bag is free. You can just fill the 500D PVC dry bag full of sand, roll and close it, and use it as an anchor.
The dry bag is made from heavy-duty 500D PVC with welded seams, UTX clips, D-rings, and a comfortable bottom strap for easy and quick emptying of sand.
The handy strap at the bottom helps you quickly empty the sand from the dry bag. The dry bag can hold 50+ pounds of sand.
When you fill the bag, do not forget to flush out the excess air in the sandbag.
Convenience: The rope and the dry bag use high yellow and green colors and have high visibility even at night. Includes a 1/2ʺ diameter 12 feet braided floating rope with two rust-proof 316 stainless steel clips and a foam composite buoy. Suitable for fresh and saltwater use. The rope is rated to 2200 pounds in tensile strength.
Suitable for kayaks, surfboards, paddleboards, and light motorized personal watercraft.
Guarantee: The seller says that the product is backed by a satisfaction and money-back guarantee (please get in touch with the seller for terms and conditions).
Pros
• Sand Bag Anchor is a multipurpose anchor.
• The 20 L dry bag can be used as an anchor by filling it with sand, or use the empty bag to store your items.
• Easy to use.
• Twelve feet long high, visibility dock rope with buoy and two numbers 316-grade stainless steel hooks.
• The product is backed by a satisfaction guarantee.
Cons
• Limited use in shallow water.
Best Shallow Water Anchor Pins
1. SandShark SuperSport Boat Anchor Adjusts 29″-48″ w/Case
SandShark SuperSport shallow water anchor pin is a simple type of anchor suitable for shallow water and sandy shores. This anchor contains a robust rod, collapsible handles, and a length of marine rope. The anchor is made of reinforced nylon, engineering-grade plastic with high-strength composite resin, and aircraft-grade aluminum.
Using this anchor is very simple. Tie one end of the rope to the handle with a secure knot and tie the other end of the rope to a snap-type aluminum clip. Dig the anchor stick into the water bed using the handle and the screw tip. Connect the other end of the rope to the D-ring of your paddleboard.
If the water current and wind conditions are more than moderate, you may use two anchor pins (one each in front and rear).
Key features of the product:
Adjustable 29-48 feet shallow Water Anchor Pin, durable storage clips, and is recommended for stand-up paddleboards/kayaks and boats up to 48 feet.
The anchor pin is made of reinforced nylon, engineering-grade plastic with high-strength composite resin, and aircraft-grade aluminum.
The SandShark SuperSport shallow anchor pin has collapsible handles (driving in and removing out is easy). The anchor can be used for sandy and muddy water beds. Useful for anchoring paddleboards and small boats in shallow water or seashore.
Pros
• Made of high-grade materials with high strength and durability.
• It can be used for sandy and muddy water beds.
• Simple to use.
Cons
• Limited to shallow water and shore.
• Costly.
Frequently asked questions
1. How heavy of an anchor do you need for a paddle board?
When you consider an anchor for a paddleboard, the weight of the anchor is an important criterion, but it is not the sole criterion. Construction of the anchor is also important. Popular paddleboard anchors like grapnel, pivoting fluke-type, and scoop-type anchors have claw-like fluke/s that dig into sand or muddy waterbeds and provide a strong anchor. For such anchors, a weight that helps the anchor to reach the bottom and settle there is sufficient, and the rest is taken care of by the fluke/s.
Experts suggest 0.5 pounds of anchor weight for every 100 pounds of paddleboard weight. Assuming the maximum capacity of the paddleboard is 500 pounds, the approximate anchor weight comes to 2.5 pounds. Also, based on their research, popular anchor manufacturers have made tables with suggested anchor weight.
So we can presume that an anchor weight of up to 4 pounds can meet the requirement of a paddleboard. However, these criteria do not apply to sandbag anchors.
2. How do you anchor a paddleboard?
Anchoring a paddleboard is simple. Let us assume you have a grapnel anchor, and the waterbed is muddy. Ensure that one end of the rope is connected to the snap ring and the other to the anchor with secure knots. Attach the snap ring end to the D-ring at the rear of the paddleboard. Select your location after checking the wind and water currents. Open the flukes of the grapnel anchor and lock it. Drop the anchor slowly into the water (the anchor should not bounce on the paddleboard and harm it). Ensure the anchor is holding correctly. You are ready for your activity now.
3. Can I use an anchor for my inflatable paddleboard to practice yoga and do fishing?
Yes, you can use a suitable anchor for yoga or fishing activity. Select an anchor based on the type of water bed, the force of the water current, and the wind force in your selected location. Grapnel anchor is the most popular anchor for paddleboards and comes in a compact shape, and weighs around 3.5 pounds.
4. Can I use a grapnel anchor to anchor my inflatable paddleboard in deep water?
Yes, you can select a grapnel anchor with good quality marine rope and use it for anchoring the paddleboard in deep water. However, you should know the correct water depth, the type of water bed, the force of the water current, and the wind force at the anchor location.
Grapnel anchors are suitable for sandy, muddy, and rocky terrains but can get entangled on the terrain covered with weeds and vegetation.
5. Can I use the corkscrew anchor for my inflatable paddleboard? If yes, where?
Yes, you can use the corkscrew anchor for your paddleboard if you anchor near the sandy shore or in shallow water.
6. What factors should I consider for selecting a good anchor for my inflatable paddleboard?
You have to consider different factors, viz. total weight of the paddleboard, including your weight and weight of all the accessories/gear on board, depth of water, water current, wind condition, sea or freshwater, and the terrain of the water bed.
Related Article: Paddleboard Kayak Hybrid (SUP Kayak) | Guide And Reviews
Conclusion
We have discussed different brands of anchors for the paddleboard and covered the popular anchor types, viz. grapnel type, pivoting fluke type, scoop type, sandbag type, and shallow water anchor pin.
Every anchor type has its typical application. A grapnel anchor is the most popular and affordable anchor for paddleboards and is suitable for sandy, muddy, and rocky waterbeds. Pivoting fluke type is suitable for muddy and sandy water beds, and the scoop type is suitable for most waterbeds (grass, mud, and sand).
The sandbag-type anchors are suitable for a waterbed that does not damage the sandbag. Lastly, the shallow water anchor pin is suitable for anchoring on sandy shores and shallow waters.
This article may have equipped you with the information required for making a wise decision when you want to purchase an anchor for your SUP, ISUP, or kayak.
