What is the right anchor
 

I'm in Phoenix Arizona so my boating is all lake. When I got my 2001 182 Mariah there was a mushroom anchor. My family likes to go to the lake and setup somewhere out on the lake only excessable by boat. I have only had one summer with a boat but when we set up are area for the day, I had to stay on the boat and move to reset the anchor every 1/2 hour to keep it off the shore. What are your suggestions for an anchor that will hold, I assume the bottom is mostly sand and rock. We boat out to a small beach unload then we get in and out of the boat and pull a tube or skier and eat kind of like a picnic. Sorry for the long question.

Re: What is the right anchor
 

Sorry about new Question but looking for something to set and retrieve easy because we go out from base several times.

Re: What is the right anchor
 

I carry two anchors. The main one is a Danforth which works well on most bottom types except grassy. The other is a plow anchor for grassy bottom. Both will set/dig into the bottom. Mushrooms are only good for short stops or muddy bottoms. In rock bottoms, a grapnel anchor may work the best. Any anchor that sets properly and keeps the boat in place will be harder to retrieve. If that is a big deal, try one with a sliding shank ring that can let you pull it out by the head like this one:
https://www.amazon.com/Attwood-Slip-...3CWJQ41MB6YHP0.
Be aware that this type can cause the anchor to release temporarily if the wind reverses direction and you are only using one anchor.

Re: What is the right anchor
 

I too carry two anchors. Its helpful with the overnight moorings. There is a lot of info out there on proper anchors and how to actually use them. I can say I actually learned a lot about anchoring the past couple years not only from experience by reading and watching videos online. Here is a decent article that might be informative for you.
Anchor info

Re: What is the right anchor
 

It also helps to have the 4 to 5 foot of heavy chain before the rope. It really helps make the anchor dig...so does rope angle...2 vary important things in getting good anchor set...also if on sand bar or shallows where swimming or walking around a nice anchor floaty marker helps save toes and feet...:wink_thumbup:

Re: What is the right anchor
 

Yes, this is essential.

Re: What is the right anchor
 

I have a 20 ibs. Mushroom and 3 feet of chain and it works great. I only anchor in no wake areas when we swim. I hated my brothers 60 Ibs. Anchor so definilty wanted something lightweight. I also only use 50 ft. of rope/chain if your anchoring in water deeper/rougher than that I'd find a different spot ;).