Ground Tackle

Have you ever heard of "ground tackle?" If you own a boat, you probably have some. "Ground tackle" is the term used to refer to your anchor and all of the components that you use to anchor your boat. Hopefully all components are not still in the package the way you bought them!

"Ground tackle" includes your anchor, a shackle or two, possibly a swivel device, possibly some chain, a thimble and your anchor line. A "swivel device" allows the anchor line to "un-twist" so that it doesn’t "knot up" as you are hauling it back aboard. Chain adds weight to help your anchor “lay down” and "set" properly.

Another relevant term is "anchor rode." That refers to all of your anchoring components except for the anchor. The most significant variable in the mix of "ground tackle" components is the anchor itself. Choosing an anchor involves two decisions. First is the style of the anchor. Second is the size of the anchor. They are equally important.

Let's start with the style of the anchor. The style of anchor is related to the type of bottom in which you plan to anchor. Sand, mud, clay, rock and grass are some of the bottom types that you are likely to run into. In addition, combinations like muddy clay, muddy sand, etc. can be your bottom condition on any particular day during your voyage. Some of the more commonly used anchors are the Danforth, the CQR (plow), the Bruce and the Fortress.

The proper anchor to choose for the condition of the bottom has been the subject of debate for a long time. However, the debate is heavily influenced by the components used in the "anchor rode" and the "anchor size" as much as it is by the style of anchor.

At the most basic level, and no matter what else you do, the bottom line is whether the “shank” of your anchor is “laying down” enough. The “shank” is the longest part of your anchor. A shackle is attached to the top end of it and the component of the anchor that “digs in” is at the other end of it. The closer the top end is to the bottom, the more likely it is that your anchor will set (dig in and hold).

When anchoring, your want to minimize the angle between the anchor’s “shank” and the bottom. There are a few things that influence that angle. First, if you have a length of chain between your anchor and your anchor line, the extra weight will help. Second, as you “pay out” your anchor line, the increased length reduces the angle. Also, if the size of your anchor is a little larger, the extra weight of the shank reduces the angle.

A larger anchor and a length of chain can achieve a smaller angle with the same length of line than you would achieve without those two features. Or, you can put out less anchor line when you have a heavier anchor and some chain in the mix.

The next time you hear a debate about the effectiveness of two different styles of anchors, ask about their “ground tackle” components. I’ll bet there will be some differences influencing that shank angle.

Until next time, I wish you clear skies, fair winds, and calm seas!