Anchoring is a science and art that takes time to learn. If you don’t get it right the first time, don’t fret! Patience is a virtue, and it won’t take long before you can do it like a pro. One of the most important is to have the right tools, and that includes the best anchor for sand.
Different bottom conditions require different anchors. In sandy bottoms, you need an anchor that easily penetrates fine grains and has a strong grip. They are available in several styles and made of varying materials. Consider the design, durability, ease of use, and price, as you evaluate options.
If you are looking for the right boat anchor for sand, you don’t have to search far! Read on and learn from what I will share in this buying guide!
SandShark Anchor
+ Interlocking pieces |
+ Bright color for easy visibility |
+ High-strength auger |
LewMar 57905
+ Withstands different wind and tide conditions |
+ High-grade one-piece construction |
+ Designed for different bottoms of the sea |
Rio Brands Anchor
+ A great option for budged |
+ Durable and lightweight |
+ Withstand even strong winds |
Table of Contents
Top 10 Anchor for Sand Reviews
1. SandShark Sport Anchor
Secure your boat in shallow waters with this anchor! It has an innovative screw auger that drills into sandy bottoms to create a rock-solid grip. The stake-out design is different from most anchors, but proved highly efficient! This anchor stake has a bright color, which makes it easily visible in the water.
I like this anchor because of its interlocking pieces. It is four-foot-tall once fully assembled. At the bottom, there is a four-inch auger that screws into the sand and provides exceptional suction. At the top portion of the anchor, there is a 12-inch T-shaped handle. Thus, it is easy to grab! Staking the anchor is effortless and comfortable.
This is a great option for small boats because of its space-efficient design. I can fold it when it’s not in use, which reduces the original size by as much as 1/3. The snap-together design makes it compact and lightweight compared to traditional metal anchors.
One more thing I love is the use of engineering-grade and high-strength plastic. I was doubtful at first because plastic is a flimsy material. However, with this product, that isn’t the case. The composite resin makes sure that it withstands the test of time. It has a diameter of 2.5 inches, making it thick.
The manufacturer is confident that buyers will love this product. So, they are readily willing to issue an unconditional refund. This gives me an assurance that I won’t waste my money with an inferior product!
- Interlocking pieces allow for portability and space-efficiency
- High-strength auger does not easily pull out of the sand
- Bright color for easy visibility
- Comes with a 100% money-back guarantee
- Made of plastic that holds only small boats
2. LewMar 57905 Claw Anchor
This boat anchor for sand bottom is a good choice for versatility. While it performs well on sandy bottoms, it is equally impressive on other surfaces. Regardless of whether there was mud or rock, I had no problem anchoring with this product. The best thing is that it withstands various wind and tide conditions, stabilizing my boat in its position.
The one-piece construction of this anchor guarantees its durability. Even better, it is crafted from high-grade steel to withstand many years of use. Plus, it has a galvanized finish to protect the core material from rust and corrosion, among other external damages. The protective zinc coating also ensures many years of functionality.
Ease of use is another reason why I love this anchor. Setting it at the bottom is easy. Retrieving the anchor is equally effortless. It is also compact, so it does not demand a large space on my boat.
While it is small, this is a heavy anchor! It is available in different variants, weighing anywhere from 11 to 44 pounds. Even the lightest anchor packs a lot of weight to prevent my boat from drifting once it is anchored.
- Designed for different bottoms or sea beds
- Withstands different wind and tide conditions
- High-grade one-piece construction with a galvanized finish to ensure durability
- Available in different weight variations to suit your needs
- Small hole for breakaway attachment
3. Rio Brands Sand Anchor
This umbrella sand anchor is a great option for people on a budget. I love how affordable it is, yet it does not compromise with quality. Despite its economical price, it delivers good performance in holding an umbrella on sandy surfaces.
This sand anchor looks like a giant screw. It has a pointed bottom sharp enough to set effortlessly. There is also a T-shaped handle that makes it easy to grab. Setting it up does not require considerable effort!
More so, I also love how durable it is! It is made of nylon and fiberglass. Bringing it around is easy because of its lightweight construction. It is also rust-proof, so it can withstand wear despite exposure to rain, saltwater, and other external damages.
Once the anchor is set, it withstands high winds. According to the manufacturer, it handles a wind speed of up to 30 miles per hour. This is a superior to cheap sand anchors that are easily blown by a strong wind! Even with harsh tidal conditions, the anchor is strong enough to stay put.
- A great option for budget-conscious buyers
- Made of durable and lightweight nylon and fiberglass
- Built to withstand even strong winds
- Made specifically for umbrellas and not for boats
- Screw strips easily resulting in poor holding power
4. Cooper Anchors Nylon Anchor
Made by a renowned Australian company, this is another top option that I can recommend for a sand anchor for a boat. It has a simple and compact design, making it both space-efficient and user-friendly. This specific model weighs 2.2 pounds, which is good for a 12-foot boat. Cooper Anchors makes this product in other sizes as well, with the largest weighing 7.7 pounds.
The smart design of the anchor ensures exceptional functionality. It has a small blade, which minimizes the likelihood that the anchor will stay on its back. This design also improves the stability of the anchor and enhances its holding power in the sand.
Another intelligent design feature of this anchor is the small area that it has between the tip and the shank. Changing direction is easy because of this! Plus, I can retrieve the anchor with less effort. When I pull my boat forward, the anchor rotates, allowing me to tug it out of sand in a snap.
With the anchor’s weighted tip, I can confidently secure the position of my boat without concern of it drifting. Despite the wind and tide changes, it stays put.
- Simple and compact design makes anchoring easy
- Has a small blade on the top that improves stability and holding power
- Intelligent design makes anchor retrieval effortless
- Stays put even with wind and tide changes
- Might require several tries before setting in the bottom
5. Slide Anchor Shore Spike
For a secure and dependable shore tie, this is another anchor I recommend. Whether you are on-shore or off-shore, this will work. It has a highly visible tube. Plus, there is a top ring, which provides a convenient place to add a buoy. This makes it easier to mark my spot on the water and locate the anchor.
The best sand anchors for boats are user-friendly, and this product is no exception. All that I need to do is to drive the tube downward to set the spike blade. The sharp edge makes it a breeze to push the tube. For retrieval, I just have to tap the tube upward and it is released from the shoreline through simple kinetic energy.
With its high-quality metal construction, I am confident that it is durable! It is galvanized, which prevents rust and corrosion. The steel used is also strong enough to secure the spike’s position even with the harshest winds or the softest sand.
- Highly-visible tube to easily spot the anchor
- Designed for easy setting and retrieval on the sand
- Made from long-lasting galvanized metal
- Not for people on a budget
- A bit heavy for small boats
6. Fortress Marine Anchors FX-7
With a maximum working load of 700 pounds, I have no worries whenever I anchor in sand with this product. It handles even large and long boats! Weighing four pounds, it is lightweight but strong enough to prevent my vessel from drifting.
It is made of aluminum-magnesium alloy, a material popular for its durability. This high-tension steel is rust-proof and corrosion-resistant, making it perfect even in saltwater. It has no welds and instead relies on interlocking components to strengthen the metal. With its superior holding power, I don’t have to worry about winds and waves.
Best of all, the manufacturer is offering a 100% lifetime warranty, which is one of the most compelling reasons to choose this product. At any point of its use, if it is damaged, I just have to contact Fortress Marine Anchors and they will issue a replacement.
I also love this anchor because of its superior sharpness. The pointed edges allow quick bottom penetration. I don’t have to exert a lot of effort. Instead, the anchor does most of the work for me! The large precision-machined flukes dig fast and deep! It also provides an adjustable position making it versatile to work well from sandy to muddy bottoms.
- High working load of up to 700 pounds
- Aluminum-magnesium alloy construction to guarantee durability
- Comes with a 100% lifetime replacement warranty
- Incredibly sharp edges for quick penetration
- Difficult to assemble
7. WAVESRX Sand Anchor
From jet skis to pontoons, this is one of the most durable anchors! I love its user-friendly design to make anchoring a breeze! All that I have to do is dock my boat and step on the anchor as I push it on the sand. The best position is below 15 degrees on the ground, which is steep enough to penetrate sand.
What I like the most about this anchor is its smart design. It has a long and hollow opening, as well as side wings. It is optimized to create a strong resistance to prevent the boat from moving once it is anchored. It also supports up to 26-foot boats in calm waters.
Another notable design feature is the smooth and flat top. It minimizes the chances of an injury after being stepped on, especially when barefoot. The edges are smooth to prevent accidental scrapes and cuts. This is different from the traditional anchors with sharp edges.
As I would expect from a top-notch sand anchor, it is durable. The anchor is made of 100% aluminum alloy, which guarantees rust resistance throughout its functional life. It is also designed with a large opening that will make clean-up a breeze.
The manufacturer stands by the quality of their product. To demonstrate their commitment to producing exceptional anchors, they are offering an industry-leading three-year warranty. Not to mention, you can get an unconditional refund within 30 days if you are unhappy with the anchor.
- Smart design to resist boat movements once anchored
- Flat top minimizes the possibility of an injury
- Made of rust-resistant aluminum alloy
- Comes with a three-year warranty and 30-day money-back guarantee
- Not for large boats
8. SandShark Sand Anchor
From the beach to a sandbar, I enjoy effortless anchoring with this product. This is a stake-style anchor, which means that it requires physical effort to set and retrieve, unlike other types that can just be dropped or thrown in the water.
The .5-inch diameter stainless steel pole is durable and resists oxidation. With a length of 18 inches, it is long enough for me to plant it deep into the sand when anchoring. It has a three-inch screw auger, which creates sufficient suction to keep my boat stable. Even when there is a strong tidal flow or wind, the anchor remains in its position.
More so, it has a foam-covered T-shaped handle, which is larger than most stake-style pole anchors. The cushioned grips ensure my comfort when setting and pulling the anchor. The handle is also removable.
This anchor is a great option for those looking for value for money. It is economical and inclusive of the things you will need. Aside from the anchor itself, it also has a padded case that protects the anchor from dirt and dust. This allows easy storage on the boat. It also comes with a standard bungee line.
- Remains planted despite strong winds and waves
- Auges screw has incredible suction
- Foam-covered handle is easy to push
- Includes a padded case to secure and protect the anchor
- Difficult to pull out of the sand
9. Slide Anchor SBA Boat Anchor
If there’s one thing I would like to highlight in this box anchor review, it is its user-friendly design. I had doubts at first because I am not used to this type of anchor. After using it for some time, I was happy with how effortless it is to set and retrieve. Even as a beginner, I am sure that you will not have a hard time anchoring.
When it is time to set the anchor, I just have to turn off the engine, toss the anchor, and watch it do a great job! This is also the case when it comes to anchor retrieval. It has downward tines, which allows the anchor to pop out of the bottom as I start pulling the line.
Beyond ease of use, I also love its versatility. The design allows me to have more control over how it is placed at the bottom. There is no need for mechanical power, and I can position my boat exactly as I want.
Another good thing about this box anchor for boats is its patented design. It allows me to position my vessel at 45 degrees from the bottom. It has downward-facing flukes that make it effortless to hold into the sand without snagging any potential debris.
- Easy to set and retrieve in different conditions
- Provides more control and freedom in its placement
- Patented design allows the fluke to deliver a strong grip
- Flimsy connection between the bar and the anchor
10. Danielson AFOLDG1 Anchor
The traditional design of this product is what most people think of when talking about anchors. It has four flukes, which are built to penetrate different bottom materials, including sand. The tines are sharp enough to effortlessly infiltrate sandy surfaces. As soon as I throw the anchor, it pierces through the bottom to secure my boat.
With its folding design, it is ideal for small boats. I commend the space-efficient body. When not used, the flukes collapse and the size of the anchor is significantly reduced. It is lockable whether it is in an open or closed position. Once the tines are closed, it easily fits in a storage bag. Even for a small boat, this anchor is perfect!
I don’t have to worry about the durability of this anchor. It is made of galvanized steel, which is known for its corrosion resistance. Even with constant exposure to saltwater and other external elements, it isn’t easily prone to wear. Despite its heavy-duty construction, this is a lightweight anchor. I recommend this to anyone looking for portability.
- Sharp tines easily penetrate the sand
- Folding design for space-efficiency
- Made of galvanized steel for corrosion resistance
- Metal used for the locking mechanism is brittle
Buyer’s Guide
There are tons of brands and models of sand anchors. It is easy to be confused, especially if you are a first-time buyer. To help you narrow down the possibilities, below are some of the most important considerations.
Types of Sand Anchors
Different anchor types deliver different functionalities depending on where they are used. In sandy bottoms, here are the best types:
- Danforth Anchor: Also called a fluke anchor, it has a trademarked design with a stock on the crown. There are two flat and triangular flukes, which are the ones that penetrate into the sand when anchoring. The hinged stock allows proper and efficient orientation.
- Claw Anchor: Designed by Peter Bruce in the 1970s, it is also known as the Bruce anchor. It is a popular commercial anchor. As the name implies, it has prominent claws, which can easily penetrate soft and sandy surfaces. While setting this anchor is quite difficult, this is great in managing wind and tide changes.
- Grapnel Anchor: This is a traditional anchor design with four or more tines connected to a shank. It is often lightweight and has a strong holding power. This also makes a great choice if you need an anchor for rocky bottoms since it can claw through rocks, although the retrieval is often tricky.
- Wing Anchor: With wings shaped like the part of a bulldozer that digs, it is compatible not just with sandy bottoms but other surface materials as well, except when it is rocky. The curved shaft helps the anchor dig into the sand. This is also what allows the anchor to maintain its position once it is set.
- Plow Anchor: The design is similar to a wing anchor, with the main difference being that the plow anchor has sharper tips. This allows it to pierce not just through sand but other surfaces as well. Another advantage of the sharp edges is that they smoothly pull out when it is time to retrieve the anchor.
- Delta Anchor: It was first used in the 1980s and is now a trademarked name. Many people use plow and wing anchor as a generic reference. It has a solid cast top and brake-pressed plate. With an open design, it penetrates different bottoms, not just sand. Today, this is a name exclusively used by Lewmar in their anchors.
- Box Anchor: This square-shaped anchor has a unique design. It does not require a chain and needs a short scope. This reduces the weight of the overall anchor set-up. It offers more control over the placement of the boat depending on the current situation. It has downward-facing flukes that can offer good holding power as well.
- Mushroom Anchor: Staying true to its name, it is designed with a large mushroom-shaped head. It is dropped with its head first reaching the water because of its weight. The bigger the head, the more stable it is. The head also creates a strong suction to enhance the holding power of the anchor, especially in unstable environments.
- Pole Anchor: It is almost a category of its own. As it is named, this is a stake or pole-type anchor. It is often made of plastic, with some models having a collapsible design for space efficiency. There is usually a T-bar at the top for ease of setting and retrieving. You need to manually push and pull this type of anchor.
Material
When choosing an anchor, one of the first things I look at is the material used. It is often indicative of the product’s price. More importantly, it impacts durability. Start by considering whether you need an anchor for freshwater or saltwater. From here, it is easier to decide what material works best.
- Galvanized Steel: This is one of the most common materials in the anchors I reviewed above. Steel is known for being solid. When it is galvanized, it is reinforced to have a stronger defense against external elements that cause rust and corrosion, especially in saltwater. The zinc coating makes it more durable.
- Stainless Steel: If budget is not an issue, then you should go for stainless steel. I prefer this over galvanized steel because it is more durable. The added cost is worth it! Make sure to choose one with marine-grade construction to prevent erosion even with exposure to sun and salt.
- Aluminum: The best thing about aluminum anchors is their weight. It is cheaper compared to stainless steel. More so, unlike galvanized steel, there is no need for protective zinc coating since aluminum is naturally rust-resistant. Some aluminum anchors, however, may not withstand harsh environments, especially when there are strong winds and currents.
- Plastic: This is my least favorite sand anchor material in terms of strength. However, if the cost is a priority, this is an economical pick. It is common in stake or pole-type anchors, which are best used only when you are in shallow waters or sandbars. Make sure that the plastic is thick enough for incredible strength.
Size and Weight
The right size depends on the intended application. I start by considering the length of my boat, space availability, and water conditions. For personal watercraft, I am good with compact anchors, especially in calm waters. For larger boats, I obviously need a bigger anchor to offer strong support.
If you are unsure about what to choose, it is best to go online and search for a boat anchor size chart. Manufacturers will have varying recommendations. In most cases, they will recommend the right size depending on the boat length, as well as wind and water conditions.
As for the weight, I always go for something that is lightweight so that it won’t be a burden to carry. However, make sure that durability and performance are not compromised. Some lightweight anchors, especially those made of plastic, may not offer the grip that you need.
Holding Power
This refers to the ability of the anchor to stay put regardless of the external environment. The most reliable are the ones that are not easy to pull out when there is strong wind or current. Most manufacturers will indicate the holding power of their anchor by stating the maximum weight it supports.
Ease of Use
In some situations, anchoring is frustrating, especially for newbies. Pick an anchor with a user-friendly design to simplify the process. The lesser effort required, the better. It is good if the anchor does most of the work for you! From setting to retrieving, you must not need to exert too much effort.
Versatility
While the priority is to choose something that works well in sand, it is best to pick one with a versatile design compatible with different surfaces. You won’t have sandy bottoms all the time. In many cases, there will be silt, weed, mud, rocks, and other materials. You need a multifunctional anchor that does well in different environments.
Inclusions
Take a look at the inclusions in the package before you buy. In most of the products above, you will get only the anchor itself. In some instances, you will also get a storage bag, which is a great place to keep everything together, protected from dirt and dust. Some anchors are sold with the rope and buoy as well.
Warranty
This is one thing that most people ignore despite its performance. The longer the warranty coverage is, the more confident I am that the anchor offers the best bang for the buck. At the minimum, the manufacturer must offer a one-year warranty. Some might even guarantee refunds/replacements within a certain period if you are unhappy with the quality of the anchor.
Read the terms and conditions of the warranty. By understanding the fine prints, you will be assured of your eligibility for warranty. For instance, some models are rated for freshwater use. If you use it in saltwater, the manufacturer might decline the warranty. Meanwhile, some have a warranty that is good only if you are the original owner of the anchor.
Care and Maintenance
To maintain the anchor’s peak performance even after years of use, it is crucial to be proactive. Below are the most important things to do.
- Read and follow the instructions from the manufacturer. For instance, if it is only for freshwater use, then do not attempt to use it in saltwater.
- If possible, wash the anchor right after every use. Use freshwater when washing the anchor. This will get rid of the residues that can trigger oxidation.
- Clean the anchor occasionally as part of regular maintenance. Use water and mild soap. A soft sponge or brush is also a must to scrub the surface and get rid of deposits that can eventually result in wear.
- If you are not going to use the anchor for a long time, keep it in a bag. Store in a cool and dry place. Exposure to the heat of the sun and other external elements can speed up damage.
- Do not drop the anchor on the deck or anywhere on the boat. Any contact with hard surfaces can weaken the anchor’s structural integrity. Pack it in a padded bag to protect the anchor from accidental bumps.
Frequently Asked Questions
Below, I will answer some questions you might have about sand anchors.
Who makes the top-rated anchor for sand?
SandShark, Lewmar, Rio, Fortress, Cooper, Rocna Anchor, and Slide Anchor are some of the names to look for. They have some of the most trusted sand anchors I have seen. If you read other online reviews, you will see that these are among the most reputable brands.
How do you anchor in the sand?
It is intimidating for beginners, but once you learn the right techniques, it’s easy. Here’s a quick guide to anchoring in sand.
- Start by finding the right location. Find a place with no or minimal obstructions.
- After finding the right spot, slow down, and stop the engine.
- Slowly lower the anchor from the bow or stern, depending on where it is located on the boat. With the engine stopped, the wind or current will move the boat backward. This gradual movement is important to avoid the rope from piling on the top of the anchor as it sets.
- If you are in a sandbar, on the other hand, you have to do the anchoring manually. The steps will depend on the type of anchor you are using. For instance, if it is a stake pole, then you will need to manually push the anchor until it is planted on sand and stable enough to secure the boat.
How does a sand anchor work?
It works much like any other type of anchor. Once it is set, the anchor digs deep into the surface using its flukes or tines, depending on the type of anchor that you are using. It penetrates through fine sand particles. It generates suction to hold its position securely, and in turn, this will prevent the boat from moving.
In some types of anchors, I have to manually push it to set on the sand. This is specifically the case for pole or stake-type anchors. It has a handlebar that I grab on the top and push into the sand. Some will have an auger screw, which will thread on the surface to create a tight connection even when there are waves.
What is the best type of anchor for sand?
Earlier, I talked about the different types of anchors you will find. Among others, my personal favorite for sand is the Danforth. It offers an easy setting and a strong grip, allowing the boat to remain steady regardless of environmental conditions. It is a conventional choice for small watercraft. Dropping and retrieving this anchor is also effortless because of the flukes.
How long is the rope I need for a sand anchor?
This depends on many things, but the most important is the length of the boat and the depth of the water. For every one-foot water depth, I need a seven-foot rope. This means that if the water is five feet, then the rope should be 35 feet. The right length is important for safe and efficient anchoring.
Can you make a DIY sand anchor?
If you are creative and patient, then you can make a DIY sand anchor using basic materials, such as a plastic pipe, rope, and pool noodle. It can be quite complicated, especially if you are not a handyman. Do not bother making one on your own. You can find a lot of affordable and dependable anchors from reputable brands, so there’s no need to make it a DIY task.
Do I need a chain for a sand anchor?
In most cases, you do not need a chain in a sand anchor. This is because it is often used in shallow waters where the rope alone is sufficient. A chain is necessary when you are in deeper waters. The chain can prevent damage to the rope by preventing it from rubbing on the surface.
Where to buy sand anchors?
Online is the best place to purchase a sand anchor. Some might have apprehensions about online shopping because scams abound. I suggest that you buy only from reputable websites, such as Amazon, and choose sellers with good ratings or products with high reviews. Compare your options to find one that best suits your needs.
Conclusion
Sand anchors exist in all shapes and sizes. They vary in terms of materials, with most made of steel. Different designs are available, including grapnel, mushroom, and stake. From the weight to holding power, there are many things to consider! To help you decide, pay attention to my recommendations above for the best anchor for sand!
I am passionate about water sports and technical fields, so combining both makes me interested in making contents about boat accessories. With my partner, we went on many trips and sports games together, which led us to think about how we can spread our joys and passions to many people.