While you’re out fishing or relaxing in a pontoon boat, you’ll want to secure it in its place. Less shaking and moving can ensure an enjoyable experience over the waters.
For that matter, a reliable anchor can keep your vessel steady. It can hold the watercraft against the effects of currents and winds.
However, you might find yourself swimming in a sea of choices when you start shopping.
Refer to the reviews below to speed up your search for the best anchor for pontoon boat.
These are our top picks based on hours of research and combined years of marine experience.
Our Pick
Table of Contents
Slide Anchor
The Best Anchor for Pontoon Boat
Among all the Anchors below, this is the best one overall.
Best Anchor for Pontoon Boat
1. Danielson River PVC Coat Anchor
Danielson is a US-based boat accessory manufacturer. The company makes a wide range of anchors for every type of boat available on the planet.
If you are looking for the best anchor for pontoon boat, look nowhere else. For a pontoon boat, Danielson offers a PVC-coated river anchor.
The “fear of drift” prevents both professional and hobbyist fishermen from exploring the deepest parts of the river.
If you do not equip your pontoon boat with a proper anchor, it will always remain vulnerable to bobbing or coasting— leading to an accident. The anchor from Danielson is made to our exacting specification set by pontoon boat manufacturers.
Furthermore, this stainless steel anchor does not come with a rope. The manufacturer arms the product with a hole where the line can be tied or hooked in. Also, the body is vinyl coated.
As you already might know, the vinyl coating offers excellent protection against discoloration and rust. It is long-lasting and does not require more than one coat.
This grapnel anchor is precision-tooled. When thrown in the water, it is perfectly capable of attaching itself to mud, rocks, stumps, and brush present at the bottom of the river.
The three individual blades are designed in a way to produce grappling action. Depending on the size and weight of your pontoon boat, you need to choose from a 12lb or 18lb anchor.
Danielson River PVC Coat Anchor is Suitable For:
This is the best anchor for a smaller fishing boat (ideally 22-26 feet length). You have an option to choose between 12 lb and 18 lb weight.
The lighter the anchor, the easier it is to work with it. So, if you have a pontoon boat with a length around 22-36 feet, go for the 12 lb anchor. Make sure the river you sail in has a soft bottom.
On the other hand, for hard-bottom rivers, an 18 lb anchor would suffice. Also, for a heavier or larger boat, an 18lb anchor offers more holding power.
Pros
- Coated with vinyl paint gives protection against discoloration, rust, and corrosion
- Works on both soft and hard bottom rivers
- The product is made the old-fashioned way
- It is made with top-grade materials
- The 12 lb anchor is easy to handle
Cons
- Does not come with a ro
- Only suitable for small to mid-sized boats
2. Slide Anchor – Box Anchor
Are you tired of difficult to handle traditional anchors? Do you sail in challenging water conditions?
The box anchor is an innovation that has changed the way pontoon boat owners look at fishing.
Unlike a traditional anchor, a box anchor, as the name suggests, is square in shape and has four pointed blades located on the top and bottom, respectively.
This precision-engineered box anchor from Slide allows you more control over the boat placement irrespective of the weather conditions.
I understand that this anchor has a unique and unconventional shape, but it is developed in coordination with leading fishing boat manufacturers.
Furthermore, this deftly designed anchor box eliminates the need for a load chain. In a traditional anchor, a lead chain is an essential accessory that allows it to be set faster.
With a box design, you do not have to rely on the downward pull. The anchor box form Slide will set in any bottom within one foot. Be it mud, grass, or sand, you do not have to struggle to set the anchor in position.
So how do I set the Slide Anchor? Tie a rope on the hole provided. Switch off the engine of the boat.
Simply toss the anchor into the river. This anchor will set itself— essentially lock itself without needing any manual intervention. The unique design makes it possible for it to fix at a 45-degree angle with the boat.
Slide Anchor – Box Anchor is Suitable For:
When looking for the best anchor for pontoon boat, you want to ensure that it is easily retrievable.
It’s easy to toss the anchor into the river. However, getting it out may require you to get creative.
With an anchor box from Slide, you first have to bring the boat over the top of the anchor. Next, simply wait till it pops out of the bottom of the river.
No pulling or complex maneuvering is required.
Pros
- Works well in both soft and hard bottom rivers
- Lets you fish even in adverse weather conditions
- Unique and innovative design
- Easy to retrieve
- Works without a lead anchor chain
Cons
- This anchor is useless without a good quality cable tie
- The hole (to connect the anchor line) needs to be bigger in diameter
3. Lewmar Claw Anch
Are you looking for a masterfully sculpted boat anchor for the sea? When it comes to purchasing pontoon anchors for the sea, it is essential to take into account their ability to dig into the sand.
Claw anchor from Lewmar is designed based on anchors used to secure oil rigs in the North Sea. As you already know, oil rigs are massive structures. Claw anchors keep these structures stable and secure amid powerful sea waves.
The anchor from Lewmar performs exceptionally well in all types of sea bottoms. Also, the manufacturer has taken additional efforts to ensure the durability of this product.
For instance, instead of stainless steel, the Lewmar claw anchor is made with galvanized steel. In case you didn’t know, galvanization is a process of applying a protective zinc coating on pure steel or any other metal.
Before purchasing a claw anchor, you should know that it is not as easy-to-use as a box anchor.
A claw anchor comes with two holes (front and rear). To get the anchor ready for usage, you need to connect a lead anchor chain to the front hole via a shackle.
Next, connect cable ties to the rear hole. To unhook the anchor from the bottom of the sea, the cable tie must be snapped repeatedly.
Lewmar Claw Anchor is Suitable For:
This claw anchor suits best for boat owners who are looking for an easy way to secure the boat. Before beginning the fishing session, simply toss the plow anchor into the sea.
The hook reaches deep inside the seabed without having to reposition or move the anchor.
You have five different weights to choose from 4.4 lb, 11 lb, 16.5 lb, 22 lb, 33 lb, and 44 lb. To
Pros
- Easy to set in the bottom of the sea
- Works well with the rocky contents of the seabed
- Made with rust and corrosion-resistant steel
- Five different weights to choose from
Cons
- The assembly is intricate and time-consuming
- The front hole needs to be larger in diameter
- Might not perform well in a weeded seabed
4. Digger Anchor
On first look, you might mistake the Digger anchor with a typical fluke anchor, but such is not the case. In this product, the crown is entirely molded into the tipping ring.
Also, the top of the crown is not flat (technically, the protruded part of this anchor is not a crown).
Further, the shank is free to move full 360-degree. It is attached to the structure with a spring mechanism— which helps the anchor to break free when your work is done.
To use this anchor, all you need to do is connect a cable tie to the shank—no need for a lead chain. The finely crafted blades are capable of reaching deep inside the riverbed.
Simply toss the anchor into the water and wait for it to set itself. As I mentioned earlier, the spring mechanism makes retrieval easy as pie.
As a boat owner who loves fishing, you must have encountered situations where you waste time setting the anchor when you could be catching fish.
Traditional anchors do work well with certain types of riverbeds but lack the versatility needed to be the best in the market. This is where the fluke style anchor from Digger comes into the picture. It will never disappoint you.
Digger Anchor is Suitable For:
Digger anchor works best for catfish catchers. It doesn’t matter how many catfish you spot if your boat is not able to remain steady, stable, and controlled until you finish your work.
If you are spending more than ten minutes trying to set the anchor, you will most certainly miss the opportunity to catch catfish.
This product is popular among the fishing community because of its effectiveness in muddy, and unsettled waters.
Pros
- Made in the USA
- Effective in every possible scenario
- Easy to set
- Easy to retrieve
- Ideal for catching catfish
Cons
- A bit pricier than a traditional fluke anchor
- No proper documentation is available
5. SandShark Boat or Pontoon Sand Anchor
Are you worried about your boat drifting in the middle of the fishing session? Or maybe you like to ground the vessel in a shallow sea so you can party or spend distraction-free moments with your loved ones?
Traditional anchors are no longer reliable. They are not only too difficult to set but also come off quite often. This is why you need a stainless steel sand anchor.
The sand anchor from SandShark is a 36-inch round shaft with a pointed end known as an auger.
The entire device is made with stainless steel. I would like to inform you that this device is larger than you would envision.
It weighs about four pounds. At the top end, you have a removable handle equipped with foam grips. The handle is connected to the shaft with a welded rind or a tie off.
A sandbar is used in shallow waters. Shallow waters can be found near a beach, in a mangrove, lake, or a river.
Ordinarily, a sandbar is used by fishermen or people who wish to chill in their pontoon vessels near a beach. You are not supposed to toll the sandbar into the water as you would do with a traditional anchor.
Before venturing in the shallow water, you must connect a cable tie to the hole present on the top end of the shaft.
The shaft is long enough for you to jam it in the sand with your bare hands. Next, you have to turn the removable handle clockwise until 30-40 percent of the shaft is drilled into the sand. Next, remove the handle.
SandShark Boat or Pontoon Sand Anchor is Suitable For:
Unquestionably, this is one of the best anchors for the pontoon boats.
The only caveat is that a sandbar is only meant for shallow waters. It is suitable for pontoon boats, and jet skis.
Pros
- The foam grip provides a comfortable turning of the handle
- The sandbar also comes with a cable tie
- It is suitable for jet skies
- The manufacturer offers a 100 percent money-back guarantee
Cons for Best Anchor for Pontoon Boat
- Does not come with a bag or a cover
- The steel auger can damage pontoon boats if the anchor is mishandled
6. MarineNow Deluxe Portable
MarineNow Deluxe Portable is a traditional fluke anchor. This pontoon anchor kit includes an anchor, rope, and chain.
The metal parts of this fluke style anchor kit have undergone a process known as hot-dip galvanization. The metal is coated with rust and corrosion-resistant material like zinc. This device can easily keep two small boats in place.
Weighing about 8.5 lb, it is one of the heaviest small boat anchors in the market (note that I have not included the rope and lead chain on the weight scale).
The 8mm thick rope or the anchor line is 98-inch in length. The dimensions are quite sufficient for small boats, but the string’s quality is not that great.
As I mentioned earlier, this anchor kit also comes with a 6mm thick hot-dip-galvanized lead chain.
The chain is 6.4 feet in length. For small-sized lightweight fishing vessels, the chain may seem like a surplus accessory, but it is bolted to the top portion of the shaft.
Also, the two 5/16-inch shackles are capable of effortlessly digging into the riverbed/seabed. These precision-tooled shackles make securing the boat as easy as it gets. The entire anchor measures 21.5-inch in length and 15-inch in width.
MarineNow Deluxe Portable is Suitable For:
This fluke style pontoon anchor may seem old-fashioned, but it is far more effective than a traditional three-blade anchor. Even though this product is affordable, the metal components of this anchor kit are hot-dip galvanized.
So, this is a right anchor for small-sized lightweight fishing boats. You can secure more than one vessel with a single MarineNow Deluxe Portable anchor.
Pros
- The metal parts of the anchor kit are hot-dip-galvanized, so there is no chance of rust or corrosion
- Can hold more than one vessel in place
- Works best in calm and settled conditions
- The anchor blades are weed-friendly
Cons
- The rope is low-quality, so it might need replacement in a few months
- The name of the product says portable, but it is heavier than other similar anchors
7. Extreme Max 3006.6530 BoatTector Navy Anchor
From a small fishing boat to a large shipping vessel, navy anchors are used in a wide range of vessels. These anchors are perfect for both river and sea bottoms with rocky terrain.
They even work fine in the presence of dense seaweed. In modern navy anchors such as Extreme Max 3006.6530, the stock can be made to fold against the shaft— allowing easy and safe storage.
This anchor weighs 28 lbs. It is classically styled like a traditional navy anchor, but the manufacturer has added some touches to make up for the shortcomings.
For instance, the metal is coated with durable vinyl paint. This protects the anchor from the harmful effects of rust and corrosion.
Also, this anchor is designed with reverse action. No matter where your vessel is positioned in relation to the anchor, the shank can come off easily with one of two snaps.
With use, you will get used to how this pontoon anchor functions. Before purchasing this product, it is recommended that take a look at the vessel’s instruction manual.
Extreme Max 3006.6530 BoatTector Navy Anchor is Suitable For:
As suggested by the manufacturer, the Extreme Max 3006.6530 suits best for pontoon boat owners who desire fast hold and easy retrieval.
Amid adverse weather conditions, a navy anchor works unperturbed. The stock is capable of digging into dense weed, vegetation, sand, and rocks.
Pros for Best Anchor for Pontoon Boat
- Goes well with both seawater and freshwater vehicles
- Enhanced design
- Painted with vinyl for rust and corrosion protection
- For easy retrieval, the shaft is 360-degree movable
- Quickly sets up in heavy grass, weed, and rocks
Cons
- May not be able to hold mid-sized vessels
- The parts are imported from China
Best Anchor for Pontoon Boat Also Read: Good Anchor rope Review
What to Look For When Buying An Anchor For Pontoon Boat?
Before you inspect best pontoon boat anchors, there are a few things you need to get out of the way. Determine the following:
- Depth of the body of water you frequent
- Size and weight of your pontoon boat
- Condition of the water bed
- Patterns of the wind and weather in the area
Physical Material
The most preferred material for a dependable pontoon anchor is galvanized steel. It is less prone to rust and corrosion, making it an ideal choice even in saltwater applications.
Motion in deep spots is unhampered with this one. And it provides sufficient mooring of the vessel to the bottom. Further, it works in most weather conditions.
Alternatively, you can look for stainless steel options if you want to use something lightweight at sea.
Best Anchor for Pontoon Boat Weight
Ranging from a few to over 10 pounds, pontoon anchors can align with various weight requirements.
You were asked to check your boat’s size and weight earlier. Use that information to estimate how heavy the anchor you’ll purchase must be.
For a baseline, an average pontoon boat can be held by an anchor that is about 15 to 20 lbs. Anything above 30 lbs, though, may not fit this boat type.
Best Anchor for Pontoon Boat Flukes
Flukes are the pointed projections of the anchor that dig into the bottom of the water.
They feature hinged spades that will let the shank rise when the boat moves because of the current or wind.
Some flukes can be folded inward, which can help save space in a small vessel like a pontoon. This can also be easily used and propped up as needed.
Best Anchor for Pontoon Boat Rope Material
The rope used to attach the anchor to the boat should be thick and have a solid weave to prevent fraying and other damage.
The weave should sport tiny air pockets for easier maneuvering. Likewise, durability should be demonstrated as the device must withstand the elements and maintain its drift.
Jute and nylon are the best materials to satisfy these requirements.
Rope Support Hole
This part should be large enough to handle a thick and strong rope. It should also manage the force that the rope can release once it is functioning underwater.
It must be durable enough to not give up at the most crucial point of your pontoon boat ride. Cross-check the rope hole size against the rope that an anchor comes with to ensure compatibility.
Best Anchor for Pontoon Boat FAQ
What is a Pontoon Boat Anchor?
An anchor is a device, usually made of metal, that is cast overboard when your water vessel engine is idle.
It is equipped with a fluke that digs into mud or sand. In particular, a pontoon boat anchor caters to a pontoon, a type of watercraft characterized by its boxy platform bottom.
When you drop the anchor, it can hold the boat in place and prevent it from drifting when the current or wind hits.
Make sure you are buying the specific model for your boat type since different types, shapes, and sizes of pontoon boats have different requirements.
How Does a Pontoon Boat Anchor Work?
When you have an anchor installed in your pontoon boat, the device works to moor your vessel at the pier or secure it in the water.
Mainly, it prevents shaking or drifting caused by noticeable currents or strong winds.
Take note that the anchor should be set correctly in order for it to be effective.
Prepare a line that is five to seven times the depth of the water. Include the distance between the water’s surface and the deck cleat where you’re tying off the anchor.
Then, head into the current or the wind, whichever is stronger, and stop at the point where you want to drop the anchor off.
Here’s a quick video tutorial on how to cast an anchor properly.
What are the Different Types of Pontoon Boat Anchors?
When it comes to pontoon boats, these are the three anchor types you should know about.
Fluke anchor, Grapnel anchor and Box anchor.
- Fluke Anchor – With a lightweight profile and long claws, fluke anchors digs well into muddy and sandy bottoms.
- Grapnel Anchor – As the second most preferred anchor type, this grapnel anchor is suitable for securing pontoon boats in rocky bottoms. It is dependable for its secure grip and firm hold underwater.
- Box Anchor – A favorite among many anchor type, box anchor is highly recommended in navigating waters with bottoms that feature mud or light vegetation.
It’s all about finding the best anchor type for your situation.
Why Do You Need an Anchor for a Pontoon Boat?
Having an anchor hold your watercraft can help prevent shaking, drifting, and moving back and forth when your pontoon boat engine is idle.
At the same time, it can make it steady when you encounter strange water conditions.
You need to invest in a top-quality anchor for your pontoon to ensure excellent performance. This can also extend your pontoon boat’s lifespan as you are prepared to face odd weather situations.
How Big of an Anchor Do I Need for a Pontoon Boat?
Not all pontoon anchors are created equal.
They come in different shapes and sizes. When it comes to choosing the right boat-to-anchor match, you also need a reference instead of picking something random.
A good rule of thumb would be to stick at 15 to 20 pounds for an average-sized pontoon. But if you want specific figures, then here’s a mini-guide for you:
- Pontoon that is 20 feet or less: Pontoon boat anchors should be 12 to 15 lbs
- Pontoon that is 20 to 30 feet: Pontoon boat anchors should be 20 to 30 lbs
What is the Best Way to Anchor a Pontoon Boat?
You must drop the anchor at the bow or the front section of the pontoon boat. Prepare the line to be five to seven times longer than the depth of the water.
Also, give some margin for the distance between the deck cleat and the water surface.
Gradually release the anchor and the line while you head into the current or the wind.
Once the object reaches the bottom, follow the distance mentioned above until you reach the line point. You can now tie the line at that point to the cleat. Reverse-power your engine to ensure that the anchor is set correctly.
You can use a second anchor at the back if the pontoon boat tends to drift more than usual.
How Big of an Anchor Do You Need for a 24 Foot Pontoon?
A 15 lbs fluke style anchor would sufficiently hold a 24-foot pontoon. Before recommending the anchor size, I have taken into account the worst of the scenarios.
Despite bad weather or high weed density in the riverbed/seabed, a 15 lbs fluke style anchor should be able to secure a 24-foot pontoon.
Best Anchor for Pontoon Boat Conclusion
Anchoring lets you secure the pontoon boat in one place while you continue to fish, party, have a quiet time with family, etc.
With the availability of modern anchors— that too at an affordable rate— several newbie fishing enthusiasts have started trying their hands on this age-old leisure-time hobby.
However, before heading out in the waters, you should know the dangers of anchoring.
Best Anchor for Pontoon Boat Final Words
An anchor is a heavy object capable of holding an entire vessel in place. If the unexpected is to happen and you got your foot caught in the rope, you might drown with the anchor.
Apart from that, I don’t see any other concerns about anchoring. From the above list, Digger anchor (popularly known as the “weedless anchor”) is the best for small-scale or leisurely fishing.
Although it is perfect for seawater, I would use this anchor for fishing in a dense river or mangrove swamps.
