The Danforth or fluke style will work well here and in the bay. You don't need much (A cinder block will do) around Dutch Gap and South as the current isn't very strong. A wreck anchor is a good idea if your anywhere around any structure (rocks or bridges).

It is always a good idea to have 2 anchors just in case you lose one and if you have to buy 2 anchors why not get a danforth and a wreck so you are prepared for any scenario. Just my 2 pennies!

 

I don't think a cinder block would hold at Presquille!

 

I use a wreck anchor all over the james and in the bay. Seems to work fine.

 

I tie off every where I go

James

CBBT

CLT

 

Anchor

Col Corn,

A Danforth is fine, but you will need to make sure the length of rope is well suited for where you fish and you will need a good length of chain. I have 150 feet of 1/2 nylon but we never anchor deeper than 50', a Danforth anchor sized for a boat larger than what we have and a 12' of chain.

Kevin
Weekend Mistress
Coastal Conservation Association Virginia, Stripers Forever

 

I appreciate the responses everyone...I'll probably go with the Danforth, with ample chain to cover me in the river and Bay.

And since I usually tie one ON versus OFF, I'll stick with the anchor ;-)

Cheers and I hope everyone has a good week - we could use some good news.
CC

 

Get a wreck anchor unless you can get the other anchors for free.

 

Care to elaborate on the wreck anchor Capt. Salmon? I noted Martineta suggested the same. No fear here asking a stupid question...is there simply too much to hang up on in the James? I have to believe there is plenty of junk down there. To my untrained eye, the wreck anchors look functional for hanging on rocks, wrecks, etc. but not in the sand and mud? I really have no idea...I was going to get one of the inexpensive galvanized Danforth knockoffs and pony up for some extra chain and give it a go. Maybe, I'll get both.

Thanks.
CC

 

I use a 20# river anchor I got at Walmart. I have 6 feet of chain attached to it, and 150' of rope. I have no problem holding bottom at any places on the James.

 

It is alot of hangs in the river with the regular anchor when it gets dug into the wood of a old sunken barge most of the time youll break the rope before the anchor lets go. The wreck anchors we use, the chain its connected to the bottom and the chain is tied with a tie wire at the top. If its stuck bad it will break the wire and pull up backwards. These anchors also work very good in the bay.

 

Thanks Capt. -- it took me a minute :scratchchin3:, but I can envision how well the wire tie trick on a wreck anchor works. That's pretty smart...