What Is The Major Danger Of Anchoring A Fishing Boat From Stern?

The top-most concern of the majority of boaters is the danger of anchoring a fishing boat from the stern. You should understand that every part of the vessel is designed with a purpose. The streamlined front, i.e., the bow, should always face the water movements. Thus, the boat should be cruised in the direction of the bow. This leaves the flat end of the vessel, i.e., the stern, away from the water movement.

If you make the mistake of anchoring the fishing boat from the stern, then it could capsize easily. Why risk? Here is all that you need to know about the dangers of anchoring the fishing boat from the stern and recommended ways of doing so.

Top Dangers

Top Dangers

Anchoring your fishing boat from the stern presents multiple dangers. You should never risk your life or damage your vessel by doing so. Here are the top risks of anchoring from the stern:

  • More resistance

The bow is designed with a pointy end that helps deal with oncoming wind and creates less resistance. Ignoring this fact and anchoring the boat on a broader stern creates more resistance for the water and the wind that strains it.  

  • Stress to cabin doors

Just like the stern, the cabin doors are flat, even more. When the top of the boat experiences stress, the cabin will be more affected and can allow water inside. If this happens, the boat can capsize easily.

  • Damage in mechanical parts

The mechanical parts are designed such that water moves from the bow to the stern without any damage. However, reversing by anchoring on the stern can damage the mechanical parts as water move backward to the bow. For instance, when there are strong currents, the rudder can break when working back as a result of anchoring from the stern.

The anchoring line can also be fouled on the propeller. This can cause a breach in the hull, or even the line can get cut. If this happens, you will end up losing your anchor.

  • Inability to adjust

There is difficulty in adjusting the direction of the boat when anchored from the stern. It can be difficult to make the adjustments, due to the flat shape of the stern when the wind and water direction changes.

N/B: The ultimate danger is the boat sinking due to anchoring it from the stern. The shape of the stern cannot lift the waves that can cause it to break into the boat, filling the back with water and eventually capsizing the boat.

How to Anchor the Fishing Boat Properly

How to Anchor the Fishing Boat Properly

After seeing the dangers that can put your life at risk, it is essential to learn the proper way of anchoring the boat. Here are the steps you should follow:

  • You have to identify a spacious location to anchor the fishing vessel from. Ideally, the area chosen should be protected with good water depth. A place that has muddy or sandy bottom is preferred as it will sink the anchor quickly.
  • Slowly, cruise the boat upwind or up current until you get to the chosen to anchor place.
  • Once there, stop the boat by switching off the motor.
  • Now, lower the anchor slowly to the bottom of the water from the bow.
  • Back the boat slowly down current or downhill, letting approximately eight to ten times of the anchor line as the depth of the water. It can vary depending on the wind’s strength and the wave size.
  • Tie the anchoring line around the bow’s cleat. Trying pulling the line to ensure the anchor is well set.
  • You need to check the surrounding cues that can help identify the location where the boat has been anchored. Sight the present buoys or any other distinct object. Keep checking the sightings to ensure the fishing boat is grounded securely without being dragged.
  • You can engage in other activities while keeping an eye on the connecting knots on your anchoring line.

Essential Tips for Anchoring Your Fishing Boat Properly

Here are the tips that can make anchoring of the boat stress-free:

  • Always use proper anchor with preference to Plow, Mushroom or Danforth
  • Tie about six feet length of galvanized chain on the anchor to prevent form sand, mud and rock abrasions
  • Ensure the chosen location has a maximum shelter for your boat away from boat traffic, wind, and currents
  • Check the water depth before anchoring and determine the kind of the bottom. It should either be sandy or muddy for secure anchoring
  • Determine the right size of the anchor line. The recommended is always about seven times more than the water depth. Opt for even more like eight to ten times when anchoring your fishing boat to be on the safe side.
  • Do not throw the anchor to the bottom as it can easily get entangled. Instead, drop it slowly while checking any obstruction until the anchor reaches the bottom safely.
  • To be sure that the boat is not drifting away, it is best to use some reference points such as buoys or any other nearby distinct object. You should then keep checking this point to avoid getting your boat dragged away.
  • As discussed, never anchor your fishing boat from the stern due to the imminent dangers that can cost your life. Do it from the bow as it is designed to serve that purpose well with damaging the mechanical parts or capsizing.

Final Word

You should never anchor your fishing boat from the anchor due to the imminent dangers discussed above. Besides the risk of damaging your vessel, you also risk your life and that of others.

Always remember anchoring from the bow is an essential skill in boating that you should master at all times. You should also follow the steps highlighted for proper anchoring to avoid any problem that may occur. While doing this, keep in mind the tips given to prevent your boat from being dragged while doing other activities.

Once all is done well, then you can continue with your fishing expedition safely!

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