Spending time on or in the water can be both exciting and relaxing. Apart from simply renting a boat and going for a weekend cruise, there are several other activities that you can enjoy, including fishing, jet skiing and of course, kayaking. Out of all, it is kayaking that seems to be the most interesting one, as it doesn’t require a lot of investment. You can get your physical activity in, plus enjoy the time spent breaking the waves. If you have your own kayak and want to hold your position in the water a kayak anchor is essential. Here you will find the best kayak anchors available.
What you should know is that while having your own kayak can go a long way, you don’t have to invest in one right from the start. Numerous clubs rent high-quality models, you only need to do is sit in it and enjoy. If your idea is to go kayaking, then you might be better off having your own. You will need to get an anchor to keep your kayak in place when you climb out, while fishing or getting out to go hiking (check out the best water shoes for kayaking and canoeing).
With there being hundreds of models on the market, most anchors are compatible with regular kayaks. The decision can be quite tough to make, we aim to show you anchors which fit almost all kayaks. To help you, we completed thorough research and summarised some of the best kayak anchor offers on the market. Also, we made a buyer’s guide and answered frequently asked questions to give you a few tips on making the right choice. So let’s get into it.
**Note** – A quick hello to anyone reading this, I’m Alastair AKA Product Review Lad. I started this site to help people choose the best products to buy, and hopefully what you’re about to read will aid you in your choice. This page includes affiliate links to the likes of Amazon, which if you make a purchase I qualify to earn a (typically small) commission. Don’t worry as this won’t cost you anything, the likes of Amazon pay any commissions. Thank you in advance for your support as this helps Product Review Lad to create the best reviews.
Best Kayak Anchor Buyer’s Guide
There are several features that you may want to consider before making your final decision for a kayaking anchor. Of course, you need to consider the price and the company that stands behind a particular product. But, there are specific points related to the design and versatility of use that come into play as well. Thus, to help you choose, we prepared a list of the most important points that you should consider when purchasing.
Material
As you may have expected, one of the most important features is the material that an anchor is made of. While stainless steel is the best option, you can settle for galvanized iron as long as it has good rust-resistance.
Will you mainly be on freshwater lakes or will you be spending the majority of your kayaking time in saltwater? Answering this question will assist you in making the purchasing decision that is appropriate to your situation.
Flukes
The flukes and the top of the anchor ensure your kayak stays in place until you pull the anchor up. An anchor with 4-flukes and a grapnel top is going to be suitable for both rocky and sandy bottoms.
Rope
Much like the design of the anchor itself, the design of anchor rope matters a lot. Apart from being reflective so that you’re easily seen on open waters during the evening or early morning. It should be made out of braided nylon or at least high-density polyethylene. The rope should be sturdy and strong.
You should be aware that a flimsy rope may not endure saltwater conditions. This could cause various safety issues or loss of your kayak.
Weight
As we mentioned above, unless you are just starting out in the kayaking world and you will be using nothing but a one-person small-sized kayak, you need to look for anchors that are 3.5 lbs.
Anything below that may be too light to hold in place very large kayaks, small boats, and jet skis. This could be dangerous if you are using your kayak in an area that has strong tides or currents as it could mean that you will get dragged along in an out-of-control fashion.
Folding
What good is an anchor if you can’t put it safely away in a space that does not take up all of your trunk room? Buying the best kayak anchor must be easily folded and features a compact storage case or bag is what you should look for. This will make your kayaking life a lot simpler.
Best Kayak Anchor Reviews
Below are the anchors we think are best on the market. Rating them on several factors including weight and line length but most importantly quality.
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Ocean Motion 3.5lb Kayak Anchor
If you are looking to purchase a versatile anchor that will not only work for kayaks, but also small boats, canoes, dinghies, paddle boards and jet skis, this Ocean Motion is the right choice. Affordable and with a 40-ft. rope, it is a great model that will keep a kayak in its place. Click here to view.
Product Highlights
If you have researched suitable kayak anchors, there is a good chance you have already seen the Ocean Motion name. It doesn’t come as a shock, as it is one of the oldest companies that manufacture the equipment needed for water sports activities and sailing.
This anchor is not only suitable for kayaking but can be used for jet skiing and canoeing as well. It will keep your board or kayak in place even in high winds. It measures 11 inches wide and 12 inches high and has a 40-ft. reflective rope which is going to work great if you are out in open waters during the night.
Featuring a kayak angler and an ultra-strong braided rope, this anchor is heavy duty and is going to accompany you throughout your kayaking adventures. Made out of galvanized iron with a stainless steel clasp, it is an extremely durable and reliable product.
It is easily stored as you only need to put it in the included nylon bag. The 2-year warranty covers any built-in defects so you can be worry-free during regular use of this anchor. It may be too light for some conditions, and the float is small, but apart from that, this anchor is an excellent choice wherever you are kayaking.
The Good
The main reason we consider this the best kayak anchor is due to its compact and sturdy design. It has good dimensions that are adequate for both anchoring a kayak, jet ski, or a small boat. Along with that, the strong reflective rope is perfect if you are out in the evening or early morning.
The Bad
On the other hand, it would be better if the float was bigger, especially for kayaking in deep waters. Additionally, this anchor may be slightly too light for holding in place on rough water in windy conditions.
Pros
- Affordable
- Reflective rope
- Sturdy design
Cons
- The anchor is very light
- Small float
Extreme Max BoatTector Kayak Anchor
If what you are looking for is to invest in a full-on anchor kit, then you are in the right place. The Extreme Max product is going to fit your kayaking hobby perfectly. Featuring a compact anchor, storage bag, reflective rope, and a marker buoy, this is the best budget option there is. Click here to view.
Product Highlights
If you are on a tight budget, this product may be a game-changer for you. It may not come with a warranty, but it is still a high-quality product that should last you a many years, as long as you know how to use it. Highlighted by a 3.5-lb. anchor and a 25-ft. rope made out of polythene.
While not as sturdy as the ocean motion, this rope is still going to hold well when it comes to kayaks, small boats, paddleboards, and other water sports equipment. Now, while the anchor is suitable for both sea and saltwater conditions, it is ideal for rocky and coral bottoms due to the grapnel top that it boasts.
Featuring a stainless steel clasp, this anchor is rust resistant and shouldn’t degrade after a period of use in saltwater.
Apart from the anchor and compact rope, you are getting a marker buoy made of marine-foam. Additionally, you get a storage bag just perfect for putting away your anchor once it is not in use. This attractive and affordable anchor set is something that many would benefit from.
While it may not be perfect for sandy bottoms, and the rope is not as sturdy as the one from Ocean Motion, this product still holds good value and should be considered as one of the best choices out there.
The Good
Apart from the affordable price, you will enjoy the attractive design and grapnel top which is perfect for rocky and coral bottoms.
The Bad
On the other hand, while it does feature a good grapnel top, it is not perfect for a sandy environment, and while the manufacturer may suggest it, we don’t see it as the ideal anchor for saltwater either.
Pros
- Affordable for everyone
- Good quality grapnel top
- Storage bag, marker buoy
Cons
- Not fully suited for sandy environments
- Not as sturdy as we had hoped
Airhead Complete Grapnel Anchor System
As a true kayaking enthusiast, you surely know the importance of a proper grapnel anchor set, which is why this product is an excellent investment. Coming at a reasonable price and with attractive design to it, it should hold much more than an average kayak. Click here to view.
Product Highlights
Featuring a storage case and a 25-foot reflective rope along with the sturdy anchor this set is worth every penny. While it doesn’t have the best customer service or warranty policy, as long as you don’t expose it to a saltwater environment for days at a time, it should be good.
Made with a stainless steel snap hook and with a polythene rope to it, this anchor is quite attractive and does a great job in both sandy and rocky bottoms. This is due to its grapnel top that ensures your kayak will stay in place even in rough conditions. Much like those mentioned above, it is a 3.5-lb. anchor with a 4-fluke design, more than adequate to hold paddleboards, small boats, jet skis, and kayaks. It shouldn’t have a problem keeping kayaks in place as long as you know how to anchor it in.
As for the design, we are talking about a black-nylon rope with a red anchor that will look great both when it is set up and stored away. It is easy to fold, and comes with a storage case meaning easy storage under a PWC compartment. Overall, apart from not being perfect for saltwater, this anchor set is going to serve its purpose and keep your kayak in place.
The Good
Along with the affordable price we have to say that the whole anchor system has been made well. While it is not ideal for saltwater it should still do a great job in versatile conditions including rocky, sandy and coral bottoms.
The Bad
The polyethylene rope material may start degrade once kept in water for long periods of time.
Pros
- Affordable
- Perfect for sandy, and coral bottoms
- 4-fluke design
Cons
- Rope material could be stronger
- Not ideal for saltwater use
Airhead Sup Anchor Kit
Another product from this trusted anchor brand, this kit is perfect for Stand Up Paddleboards (SUP), beginners in slow waters or those of you kayaking using smaller kayaks. Fancy, featuring a red anchor and a yellow reflective rope it is one of the most affordable options out there. Click here to view.
Product Highlights
There are several great things about this product, the first being that it is compact and that you shouldn’t worry about it keeping a smaller kayak in place. Yes, this anchor is somewhat smaller (1.5 lbs.), but is still sufficient for low wind and current use along with holding any paddleboard.
Not brilliant for saltwater, it is just the perfect choice if spend a lot of time on a slow river or lake. As for the rope, it may not be of excellent material, but it holds very well as long as you don’t expose it to salt and harsh conditions. This set is quite attractive and will hold the right kayak well once set out.
Can you fold the anchor? Absolutely, and the best thing about it is that you get a sturdy storage bag, perfect for transporting this set. Ideal for small kayaks and SUP, it may have a few small flaws, but apart from that, it is a good investment for the given price.
The Good
It is probably the best anchor set for SUPs that you will find at such an affordable price. While it may not be suitable for sea kayaking, it is ideal for freshwater and should keep your kayak inset at rocky and sandy bottoms.
The Bad
It is too light for any large kayaks. Also, we have to say that the rope is not of ideal quality.
Pros
- Affordable
- Perfect for SUP
- Great for saltwater
Cons
- Very lightweight — not ideal for bigger kayaks
- Small float
Extreme Max 3006.6545 BoatTector Anchor
As the last product highlighted on our list of the best kayak anchor offers is another Extreme Max model that seems to be just perfect for the saltwater environment. It has many great features that any kayak enthusiast will love.
Product Highlights
This anchor is different to those listed above, and is perfect for someone who wants a custom build anchor set. This product is an individual grapnel anchor with with several weights available ranging from 1.5-lbs up to 13-lbs.
Made of galvanised steel, it is compact, easy for storage, and should last many years as long as you follow the instruction manual and don’t expose it to rough conditions (for days at a time).
Much like the anchors mentioned earlier, it features a grapnel top, meaning that it can keep your kayak in place no matter if it is sandy, rocky or coral bottoms. Apart from kayaking, it is suitable for anchoring jet skis and paddleboards as well.
Made of galvanized steel it really shouldn’t have a tough time staying rust-resistant. With 4-flukes (much like the previous products) it is an anchor that you can put complete trust in. Yes, it may require assembly, and the pin that holds everything in place is not the best. This product is still a great choice considering the price and the manufacturer that stands behind it.
The Good
Made of galvanized stainless steel this model is ideal for both a fresh and seawater environment. It features a sturdy grapnel top that will hold your kayak in place whether we are talking about rocky, sandy or weed bottoms. You can make a custom built anchor system.
The Bad
We have to admit that the pin holding it in place can be somewhat flimsy, which can be a problem once in heavy use. If you want to purchase a complete anchor system this isn’t the right one for you.
Pros
- Create a custom built anchor system
- Affordable
- Galvanized stainless steel
- 4-fluke design
Cons
- Doesn’t include rope, float and latch
- Slightly flimsy pin
Conclusion
Investing in the best kayak anchor is something you need to do for preparing for your kayaking route. Out of all the mentioned products our personal favorite is the Ocean Motion Anchor.
While it is a little more expensive than others, it features a superb design, perfect for saltwater, sandy and rocky bottoms. Not to forget, it features a reflective rope that is essential if you enjoy spending the nights set in open water.
Hopefully this article has answered your kayak anchor questions and has helped you choose your anchor. If you have any questions, recommendations or anything else then please contact me via my contact page.
Product Review Lad
Best Kayak Anchor FAQ
What is a kayak anchor?
A kayak anchor is a product that will set your kayak to the bottom of the sea, lake, or river. It keeps your kayak in place against the moving currents or tides until you are ready to move away.
What comprises a good kayak anchor?
A proper kayak anchor should have a grapnel top, four flukes and made of galvanized iron or stainless steel to ensure rust-resistance. If it has these features it will hold your kayak very well and will last you a long time.
Is a kayak anchor necessary?
Absolutely — unless of course, you want to let the currents decide your fate. Having an anchor is especially helpful if you are planning to do fishing or bird watching from your kayak. The anchor will keep you in place so that you do not drift with the current.
How to set a kayak anchor
Setting a kayak anchor is something that is taught as a primary skill in any kayaking course. Nothing hard, it is all about figuring out how far away from your boat, you should throw the anchor. Pulling it down and letting it stick to the bottom.
Rigging your kayak anchor
If you keep your kayak anchor in the same configuration that it arrives you can struggle with it becoming stuck, sometimes to the point that you have to leave the anchor where you dropped it. If this happens several times it could become quite costly! The video below by Denny Ransom is really helpful on how to best set up your anchor.
Can I make my own kayak anchor?
While there are specific guides on how to make your own kayak anchor using simple materials. We still have to recommend that you invest in a professional, quality anchor made out of galvanized iron or stainless steel. Preferably this comes with a manufacturer’s warranty.
By doing so, you can rest assured knowing that if anything goes wrong with the anchor, you can contact the company that made it for a repair or replacement.
How does a Kayak anchor work?
A kayak anchor works by the fluke gripping/catching the bed of the body of water is is in. The anchor effectively has to lock into whatever surface is below the water. Once in the waters bed it proves a resistance to your kayak or canoes potential movement stopping it in position.
How heavy should a kayak or canoe anchor be?
This depends on the size of your kayak or canoe and what type of water you want to use the anchor in. The best kayak anchors are around 3.0 lb or above.
