I used to anchor in current without any problems. One day the water level was a little higher, and the current a little more swift than normal, but being the fool that I am I saw no problem in it because I never had an issue before. I dropped my anchor, payed out the line and waited for a smooth hook up with the bottom. The current pulled me down river faster and faster and by the time I had realized it was too late, my anchor hooked up on a rock very hard, broke my anchor trolley right off, and the rest of the line was tied around my seat. My kayak whipped sideways and immediately pitched over and the current was quick to fill it up. Luckily I keep a boot knife on me and was able to cut the line before I was completely pulled under and was able to salvage my kayak and all the gear thanks to buoyancy tanks and tie downs for everything. It could have gone a lot worse and it all happened within a 15 second time frame. I made it out fine, but after that I started using my noggin, safety is paramount! Thanks so much for educating people on the dangers of anchoring, most kayak deaths are caused by capsizing of the kayak and the user not wearing a PFD. You need to be aware of the dangers of what you are doing at all times!
+Christopher Schultz That is an incredible story Christopher. I am glad you weren't hurt in that ordeal. Like you said, it could have been much worse. Thank you for sharing what you went through. Hopefully others will read this and learn from your experience.
I had a child’s floatation device on when me and my pal got hung up trolling shrimp on an 18’ lake skiff. In 15 seconds the boat sank and 7 hrs later we made it to shore. Without that kids life jacket I would have drowned. For sure. You never know what can happen
This is so funny and completely true... Started watching your video and 30 seconds into it, just from your voice/accent/dialect, I thought to myself "this guy HAS TO BE from my area!". I paused the video and looked below to see if I could find anything that would indicate as much because I wanted to see if I was right, and HA! YES you are form my area. Hi neighbor, I'm from Dayton TN. I just had to share that, LOL. I'm going to finish watching the rest of your video now. Happy fishing.
If you like the 3lb anchor you can always negate the twist by adding a swivel clasp attached to the anchor via a 30lb zip tie then the other side will connect to your anchor line. That way when you pull it up just the anchor will spin instead of the line itself. Love your vids.
I’m not even a fisher but your hobie related vids are the best I’ve seen for practical info on safe and effective operation, plus the considerations one should make when buying boats and accessories. No rambling, it doesn’t feel like you’re stretching things out to make a longer video like many others, some of whom have left comments that indicate jealousy.
For an anchor ive used a mesh bag filled with stones found on site prior to cast off with numbers per need (current speed and hold). I don't think I've ever hooked bottom and it's been a very flexible and lightweight kit when not in use. Cheap too.
Thank you so much for putting together this comprehensive video! I just got a Native Manta Ray kayak and I want to be able to anchor safely. I'm going to follow this exact setup, but I might also add a 2ft section of bungee cord between the rope coils and the caribeener to give a little bit more give to the system so I have a little bit more time to detach while the bungee takes some of the wake. Thanks again, I would've had to learn this system the hard way if it wasn't for this video.
I appreciate the safety concerns expressed in the beginning. In fact, I'm learning how to kayak and deal with many obstacles, new to me, including swift moving currents between low/high tides. Great tutorial and information. Thanks!
Just rigging my first fishing kayak and looking at anchors. I have an 5 or 8lb bell anchor (kettle ball?) and thought it too much weight to add. I'll be fishing small creeks with beaver dams and an occasional lake near shore and usually give it up when the wind comes up. Thinking I'll save the money and try what I have for awhile, shouldn't need to grapple anything. Great safety tips. I have the float and will rig to release my anchor but didn't think of it in the context of a large wake.. you might have saved my bacon, so thanks
I have a tip for your anchor and the spinning what you do is attach a swivel between the line and anchor so it spins on the swivel and dosent twist the line like a propeller on the end of your line 👌 works perfect
I use a 2 lb rubber coated dumbell. Works great and is the perfect weight. Because of the shape and lightness,it doesn't sink low enough usually to get completely stuck in weeds or mud. so in an emergency any hard force will spring it free, yet keep you in place 99% of the time
I find your channel helpful as I'm getting into the kayak world cause I can't afford a boat so these are cheap enough for me. Thanks for a great channel.
Dude, i learned so much from this short video. I'm a new Kayak fisherman. I have an anchor and a drift sock but never thought about using them together. Thank you and keep the videos coming. Tight lines!
+Terry Mayberry Thanks! I'm glad you found it to be helpful. I'm working on blog post with a few more anchor safety tips that will be posted to KayakCatfish.com on Thursday.
The danforth anchor he has is the best anchor for ratio of hold to weight. The chain improves the angle of attack so you can use less anchor line. They come a little smaller than his, which is ideal for a kayak, Remember, the weight is lowest for the hold, so it's an optimum anchor, even for a kayak.
First time coming across your videos Catfish... I have to say, you explain yourself very well, very thorough, very detailed. Not many can do that especially on instructional videos. Somehow unfortunately they fall short.. I was very impressed and I want to thank you for putting a great video about anchoring like this... I learned more today thank you very much.. looking forward to checking your channel out and learning more... Tight Lines
Like the idiot I am, I went kayak fishing just the other day without wearing a PFD. Flipped over and was lucky I didnt hit my head. Lost my pole and hat. Im lucky I didn't lose my life. Im glad you went over the importance of being safe. I wont make that mistake again. Good video 👍
I have lost lots of grappling anchors even using zipties . I changed to mushroom anchor years ago and have not got snagged up since . Downside is a little heavier . I carry a 5lb and a 8lb . I have 2 anchor trollies on my kayak with quick releases .
Hi mate can I make a little recomendation with the grapple anchor attach your line to the ring below the grapple then run the line down to the main hole on its handle attach the line to it with a light zip tie that way if you get snagged give it a harsh pull itll break the zip tie and tue anchor will fold up and you can pull it up easily
That's such a good idea. I have some home-built anchors which work really well for their weight, but have the potential to get hopelessly snagged. I had thought about putting an attachment eye on the bottom of the anchor and using a second rope, but what pain that would be. The zip-tie idea is something I might try.
To Kayak Catfish dude, I found this old video because I want to send a new message to you but I couldn't find a new video today. I want to help you with your sciatica. I've been down and out these last two years with severe sciatica. Couldn't walk, couldn't sleep, and had to go to the doctor's in a wheelchair. Physical therapy is what you need and you probably can't be healed until you discovery the right therapy because your work requires you to spend your working hours sitting in the kayak and then you probably go home to edit the videos sitting for hours. Exercise is the most important thing you need. You need to take a break. I wish I can send you the help that helped me. I wish that i could send the diagrams that helped me. I hope you recieve this message. Sincerely, your friend P.s. Thanks for your hard work and Jesus loves you and so do I. Thanks catfish man, Love you Justin:) Have a Great Day!
As soon as you said everything you are goin over, i subbed..id like to anchor my sun dolphin but i think its to unstable, ive seen others do it but it makes me feel uneasy
I had that twirling problem with that compact anchor too, i just put a swivel between my chain rode and anchor..my tip: have a separate line for an anchor buoy and attach it to the business end of the anchor, when ur ready to go pull up the anchor by the buoy, since it pulls it from the opposite end it unhhoks itself instead of digging in, ive never lost an anchor this way
@@KayakCatfish So normally you won't anchor and just put out the sock? Asking cuz I tested my anchor for the first time yesterday and had the issue you mentioned cuz I didn't have the sock. I feel like with a sock off the bow you could hook up and have the fish run your line into it and create a mess.
Wow, thanks for including the key safety tips in your video! I am new to boating. So I have little experience with anchors. First boat I was intending to use an anchor with was my new fishing kayak and damn, I could have gotten myself killed because I had no clue any of the stuff you mentioned could happen. Glad the first day I tried to use my anchor it became a tangled mess which made me have to forget the idea entirely until I had figured out a way to deal with the tangle issue. That's what lead me to your video. You told me how to fix my tangle issue but found out tangles were the least of my worries!
I feel the same way. I have a canoe and I just thought well tie the rope and anchor on the side and that would be good 😢 I'm a 63 year old grandma I'm glad I didn't have an anchor when I had my eight year old grandson in the boat
Thank you for this video. I’ve got a 16’ old town canoe I’m going to apply this to. Hopefully with a bit larger anchor and windsock I can achieve similar results
Thanks for the info! I was the one that asked about all the anchor stuff. This was really helpful! I am considering buying a kayak, and was concerned about how to anchor correctly. Thanks!
Hey sir just thought about getting into kayak fishing. Deciding on type of kayak etc gear etc . Great video and great safety tips . Mostly what you said it’s safe to assume to really not have a anchor ... unless anchor fishing
Thank you for watching! I hope you give kayak fishing a shot. It’s a lot of fun. You are right about the anchor. Unless you are doing a type of fishing that you need to anchor for, it is safer to just not anchor at all.
its because you didnt completely tie your rope on the hole at the top of your folding anchor. thats the reason why the anchor spins foot first when you pull it up. if you notice the small hole on the top most part of the anchor, the purpose of that hole is to budge the anchor out easily, and pull it up head first with minimal resistance.
+steven lloyd I used the zip tie trick when I was using the folding anchor. The zip tie method helps keep from losing anchors that get hung but it prevents you from pulling the anchor up from that top hole that you are referring to. That is definitely the way to go though if you are fishing in places where you aren't likely to get your anchor snagged.
if you have a problem with the grapnel style anchor spinning, couldn't you just put a swivel on your chain so it doesn't twist your line (same concept as a swivel on your fishing line)?
When I took the course, 50 years ago, on Chapman's Seamanship and Small Boat Handling, one of the points covered was that the person piloting the boat was legally responsible for their wake. You cause a smaller craft to capsize, you are legally liable. I am not a lawyer, this ruling might have been overturned. I do know that it does make sense on lakes and other bodies of water where there is no barge traffic. It saves lives and fishing gear replacement costs. Kayaking strong flowing bodies or placid bodies of water and not wearing a life vest? The directions are on the sole, dummies.
I'm in Knoxville fishing out of a Hobie PA17. There are a couple different ways to tie off to the folding anchor, one involves using a steel rod to make something similar to your slip ring anchor. When are you putting your hot peppers out this year? I also plant a garden. Thanks for the video.
Thank you for sharing, I'm gonna get the drift sock too to stabilize the kayak when anchored. How long is the line for the drift sock? So it doesn't get in the way with the fishing lines.
I put a rope on the small end of the drift sock and attach it to the trolley ring with a colored carabiner. Usually red. If I need to pull it in quickly I can differentiate which end im pulling on via the red carabiner. This way you’re NOT working against the drift sock.
All the videos of yours I have watched are excellent. A couple questions though Are you concerned at all with the depth of moving water when you anchor? I sturgeon fished a lot on the Columbia River and we typically used 7-10 times the depth to anchor. That's a lot of rope but it was necessary. Maybe the kayak is different in that respect. Secondly, they make swivels that you could tie in 6' or so above the anchor that spins, maybe that would help? Anyway, I cant wait to watch more of your videos, very entertaining with no BS like most fishing vids. Thank you.
Thanks! No, I am not as concerned with rope length here. Our current flow is very light, usually 0.5mph, and since I use a much heavier anchor than what is really necessary, it helps me offset the need for more rope.
Thanks for mentioning the dangers of anchoring a kayak in a river I just bought first kayak and did not think about the danger but is it a must to fish a kayak with a anchor trolley or will I be OK without one
A lot of people don’t use an anchor trolley. I personally wouldn’t anchor without one. If you don’t use one, make sure you can cut or release your rope quickly in the event of an emergency.
This was an excellent video JJ. I've been wondering how you anchor in deep water. Since I've only recently begun to river fish for catfish, this is very helpful to learn from the master.
Hey nice video, very informative and thanks for sharing how you do things. I'm a new subscriber and just looking back at some old videos. Good job and keep it up
sharing thanks for sharing. I am new to kayaking. I love it but it's going to be a learning curve LOL. thanks for the safety tips. those were things I did not realize.
+Jim Bilbrey Thanks for watching! I am working on a post for my blog with more safety tips when anchoring. It will be posted on Thursday at KayakCatfish.com
Black Warrior Lures thats a really good idea, thank you! Been using paracord and a brick to anchor hahahaha. But getting a real one today didnt even consider how loud it would be
I want to know what kind of kayak I need to be able to fish out of. Standing up sounds crazy but I see people doing it. What’s my best bet beginner kayak for fishing.
WoW .... I get the concept and need for a chain .... but that looks like A LOT of anchor n chain. I don't think I want to be in a Kayak where THAT MUCH weight is needed to anchor .... you are a bigger better man than me.
Hi there I'm a fan of your videos, can you make a video when you pull out the anchor at deep waters and fast current. The second time I did that the anchor got stuck 2 time the first got loose when the cable tie snatched but the second didn't get out the current was really fast and I bearly holded the rope, the time I knew what going to happen it was too late thankfully I was able to cut the whole anchor system at the time the yak was flipping and got in the water without the yak tied to the bottom. And I managed to flip it again from the first time before it swamped (sit in kayak 🤷♂️) was at night I had 2 winter jackets on me and I got really Lucky the car was about 6-7km from me I was on the outer part of an island in the river and no way to make it to my Viechle without the yak, I got lucky really lucky. Any ways have you experienced stuck anchor in fast current.
Everybody’s body type and abilities are different. It would be impossible for me to recommend a kayak to you when I know nothing about you. I would suggest going to a demo day at a local dealer so you can try out several different brands and models to see which best suits your needs.
Man, I'm tellin' ya. I haven't anchored my little boat boat in a long time. There is much barge traffic, and I'm always below the dam. I used one of those grapple anchors in my old pirogue. Many people don't know these tips apply to all small craft. I have a slipring anchor. A lot of people call it a Danforth or fluke anchor. The chain is a must for these anchors.
Water just needs to be deep enough for the sock to open completely. It will help pull you with the current if the wind is blowing upstream and slowing your kayak down. If there is no wind, the sock wouldn’t open. It would just drift along at the same speed as your kayak in the current.
If you have an kayak hat doesn't stand, an anchor can be used fine with an ANCHOR TROLLEY. Never EVER use an anchor on ANY kayak without a trolley. Those pulleys will save your life. Being able to stay parallel to the current is IMPORTANT. Turning your kayak in the current can be deadly. Always a carabener at the triangle.
I agree. I went kayaking on a small lake yesterday and was going to anchor off in the middle of my kayak, and thought this doesn't feel right since every ship/boat I've seen the anchor drops from the front or back.
@@drjekelmrhyde thanks for sharing that experience. I appreciate you replying. I don't know how a lake might be but current is scary and can force you to tip when an anchor snags a tree and you can't recover
@fishnrepeat It was the wind that was freaking me out. I absolutely know about water currents, because I fell into the Chicago River in high school. The current was so strong that it dang near had me in a full horizontal position, luckily I was luckily enough to be holding a branch and a friend was their to pull me back up. That river looks super calm, but that current underneath eats at the bank giving you a false sense of security .
About drift socks i have a 10ft kyack and i dont have much room on it due too a lot of stuff on it (i can stand on it) and i saw the drift sock at acdemy sports for $13.00 and is 21 inches and do you think that is big enough you make great vids i learned a lot from you and you deserve a lot more subscribers thanks.
I don’t think a 21 inch drift sock will do much for you. Kayaks are just so light weight, the wind can really play havoc. I would go with at least a 30”.
Yes. It happens from time to time. That’s why I have gone to the setup in this video with the slip ring style and piece of chain in front of the anchor. When it gets hung, I just try to get behind it and tug and also hit from as many different directions as possible until it works free. Sometimes you just can’t break it loose though.
Thanks for a great video- very clear explanations of a somewhat complex topic. I have a question about deploying the drift sock. The anchor trolley has one ring (clip-in point). You've got your anchor clipped into that and deployed aft in this case. How are you going to deploy the drift sock off the bow? If you have more than one ring (clip-in) the trolley rope will not be able to make its full travel as the second ring will hit a pulley. Are you using two separate anchor trolleys...one on port and one on starboard?
I used to anchor in current without any problems.
One day the water level was a little higher, and the current a little more swift than normal, but being the fool that I am I saw no problem in it because I never had an issue before.
I dropped my anchor, payed out the line and waited for a smooth hook up with the bottom.
The current pulled me down river faster and faster and by the time I had realized it was too late, my anchor hooked up on a rock very hard, broke my anchor trolley right off, and the rest of the line was tied around my seat.
My kayak whipped sideways and immediately pitched over and the current was quick to fill it up.
Luckily I keep a boot knife on me and was able to cut the line before I was completely pulled under and was able to salvage my kayak and all the gear thanks to buoyancy tanks and tie downs for everything.
It could have gone a lot worse and it all happened within a 15 second time frame.
I made it out fine, but after that I started using my noggin, safety is paramount!
Thanks so much for educating people on the dangers of anchoring, most kayak deaths are caused by capsizing of the kayak and the user not wearing a PFD. You need to be aware of the dangers of what you are doing at all times!
+Christopher Schultz That is an incredible story Christopher. I am glad you weren't hurt in that ordeal. Like you said, it could have been much worse. Thank you for sharing what you went through. Hopefully others will read this and learn from your experience.
Sheeeeeeeeeeeeeesh
I had a child’s floatation device on when me and my pal got hung up trolling shrimp on an 18’ lake skiff. In 15 seconds the boat sank and 7 hrs later we made it to shore. Without that kids life jacket I would have drowned. For sure. You never know what can happen
I’m never in my kayak without a multi-tool pocket knife in my pocket.
This is so funny and completely true... Started watching your video and 30 seconds into it, just from your voice/accent/dialect, I thought to myself "this guy HAS TO BE from my area!". I paused the video and looked below to see if I could find anything that would indicate as much because I wanted to see if I was right, and HA! YES you are form my area. Hi neighbor, I'm from Dayton TN. I just had to share that, LOL. I'm going to finish watching the rest of your video now. Happy fishing.
Thanks for watching neighbor
put a swivel on the anchor, so the spin wont affect the line.
Love how i notice this comment as he says it in video😂😂
If you like the 3lb anchor you can always negate the twist by adding a swivel clasp attached to the anchor via a 30lb zip tie then the other side will connect to your anchor line. That way when you pull it up just the anchor will spin instead of the line itself. Love your vids.
That’s a good idea. Thanks for watching!
I’m not even a fisher but your hobie related vids are the best I’ve seen for practical info on safe and effective operation, plus the considerations one should make when buying boats and accessories. No rambling, it doesn’t feel like you’re stretching things out to make a longer video like many others, some of whom have left comments that indicate jealousy.
Thank you! I appreciate the nice comment.
So glad I watched your video I didn't think about half of the dangers of anchoring you talk about in the video
Loved how you explain pros and cons and why “you” use it that way and then showed how you use it. Great job you seem like a teacher😂
For an anchor ive used a mesh bag filled with stones found on site prior to cast off with numbers per need (current speed and hold). I don't think I've ever hooked bottom and it's been a very flexible and lightweight kit when not in use. Cheap too.
Thank you so much for putting together this comprehensive video! I just got a Native Manta Ray kayak and I want to be able to anchor safely. I'm going to follow this exact setup, but I might also add a 2ft section of bungee cord between the rope coils and the caribeener to give a little bit more give to the system so I have a little bit more time to detach while the bungee takes some of the wake. Thanks again, I would've had to learn this system the hard way if it wasn't for this video.
Wow you’ve been a huge help! I bought my husband a kayak for Christmas and his birthday is coming up soon I’m trying to figure out what he needs.
I appreciate the safety concerns expressed in the beginning. In fact, I'm learning how to kayak and deal with many obstacles, new to me, including swift moving currents between low/high tides. Great tutorial and information. Thanks!
Thanks Ian! I am glad you found the video helpful.
I use a 9 lb mushroom anchor for the last 5 years in lakes and rivers and it doesn't budge. never hung up on anything
Just rigging my first fishing kayak and looking at anchors. I have an 5 or 8lb bell anchor (kettle ball?) and thought it too much weight to add. I'll be fishing small creeks with beaver dams and an occasional lake near shore and usually give it up when the wind comes up. Thinking I'll save the money and try what I have for awhile, shouldn't need to grapple anything. Great safety tips. I have the float and will rig to release my anchor but didn't think of it in the context of a large wake.. you might have saved my bacon, so thanks
Thanks Gary! A small dumbbell or kettle bell should work well for where you are fishing.
I have a tip for your anchor and the spinning what you do is attach a swivel between the line and anchor so it spins on the swivel and dosent twist the line like a propeller on the end of your line 👌 works perfect
I'm just getting into kayak fishing and found this to be very helpful. Thank you
for providing this information for us.
Thanks Donald! Glad you found the video helpful.
i would get the grapple one i use it and it works great
@@Storm-dy3jy I tried a grapple anchor it doesn't hold in soft mud for anything
@@jamesloerzel4377 i fish in a more grass flat area and muddy sand diffrent experiences
@@Storm-dy3jy which type of anchor would you suggest in really silty mud bottom???
Great tips . Safety is always paramount , can’t have fun if you’re dead .
As a navy vet…your advice was spot on. Appreciate your reminder
I'm looking at getting into kayak fishing more, and never thought about needing to detach quickly. Good info!
Thanks Brandon! Glad you found it helpful.
I just use a 5 pound disc weight for a dumbbell it works and I don't look like I'm anchoring the flying dutchman lol
Lol true. Serious bloody anchors here mate
awesome comment
I just bought a 5lb weight for an anchor with a 25fr anchor rope. I just connected it with a quick clip on the side of my yak.
Lol!!!
There are a lot of videos on what to do, very few about Lessons Learned. Great video!
+J Norfleet Thank you! I appreciate the nice comment.
I use a 2 lb rubber coated dumbell. Works great and is the perfect weight. Because of the shape and lightness,it doesn't sink low enough usually to get completely stuck in weeds or mud. so in an emergency any hard force will spring it free, yet keep you in place 99% of the time
If I used a 2lb dumbbell, the big catfish I catch would drag me all over the river lol
I find your channel helpful as I'm getting into the kayak world cause I can't afford a boat so these are cheap enough for me. Thanks for a great channel.
Thanks Rex! I am glad you find the videos helpful. I appreciate you watching.
Hook your rope to the hole on the bottom of the anchor it will fold closed when you pull it up.. on that first one you showed
Dude, i learned so much from this short video. I'm a new Kayak fisherman. I have an anchor and a drift sock but never thought about using them together. Thank you and keep the videos coming. Tight lines!
+Terry Mayberry Thanks! I'm glad you found it to be helpful. I'm working on blog post with a few more anchor safety tips that will be posted to KayakCatfish.com on Thursday.
This why I watch your videos your information is ...Life saving! Thanks Justin
awesome video. Some people talk for 10 minutes and don't say much. great content.
New to the sport and I’m happy I didn’t end up buying a anchor think I’ll relax until I get some experience
Me too
The danforth anchor he has is the best anchor for ratio of hold to weight. The chain improves the angle of attack so you can use less anchor line. They come a little smaller than his, which is ideal for a kayak, Remember, the weight is lowest for the hold, so it's an optimum anchor, even for a kayak.
First time coming across your videos Catfish... I have to say, you explain yourself very well, very thorough, very detailed. Not many can do that especially on instructional videos. Somehow unfortunately they fall short.. I was very impressed and I want to thank you for putting a great video about anchoring like this... I learned more today thank you very much.. looking forward to checking your channel out and learning more... Tight Lines
Thank you for the nice comment. I am glad you found the video helpful. I appreciate you watching.
5-10lb kettlebell makes a great kayak anchor.
A weightlifting kettlebell? That’s genius!
Thanks!
Yeah that's super smart
Thats what i do lol
i've learned a 5 pound kettle plate (or bell even) works like a charm for everything ive thrown at it so far.
I'm just starting with kayak fishing and this was very helpful!
Thanks, m8!
Glad you found it helpful. Thanks for watching!
I like how orange your PFD is in this early video! The same PFD is now almost tan. Well worn.
Like the idiot I am, I went kayak fishing just the other day without wearing a PFD. Flipped over and was lucky I didnt hit my head. Lost my pole and hat. Im lucky I didn't lose my life. Im glad you went over the importance of being safe. I wont make that mistake again. Good video 👍
I have lost lots of grappling anchors even using zipties . I changed to mushroom anchor years ago and have not got snagged up since .
Downside is a little heavier . I carry a 5lb and a 8lb . I have 2 anchor trollies on my kayak with quick releases .
I've been fishing out of a kayak for 15 years and I still learned something new. Great tip's. Do you fish any quarry's? If so any tips
Thanks Michael! No, I don’t have any quarries around here to fish.
Hi mate can I make a little recomendation with the grapple anchor attach your line to the ring below the grapple then run the line down to the main hole on its handle attach the line to it with a light zip tie that way if you get snagged give it a harsh pull itll break the zip tie and tue anchor will fold up and you can pull it up easily
Your absolutely right. That's how the big boys do it.
That's such a good idea. I have some home-built anchors which work really well for their weight, but have the potential to get hopelessly snagged. I had thought about putting an attachment eye on the bottom of the anchor and using a second rope, but what pain that would be. The zip-tie idea is something I might try.
Some kayakers use steel chain as anchors - dragging on the bottom - especially in rivers.
Very informative Justin especially the safety aspect when detaching the anchor when a big wake comes by 👍🏻🎣
Thanks Benjamin!
To Kayak Catfish dude, I found this old video because I want to send a new message to you but I couldn't find a new video today. I want to help you with your sciatica. I've been down and out these last two years with severe sciatica. Couldn't walk, couldn't sleep, and had to go to the doctor's in a wheelchair. Physical therapy is what you need and you probably can't be healed until you discovery the right therapy because your work requires you to spend your working hours sitting in the kayak and then you probably go home to edit the videos sitting for hours. Exercise is the most important thing you need. You need to take a break. I wish I can send you the help that helped me. I wish that i could send the diagrams that helped me. I hope you recieve this message.
Sincerely, your friend
P.s. Thanks for your hard work and Jesus loves you and so do I. Thanks catfish man, Love you Justin:) Have a Great Day!
As soon as you said everything you are goin over, i subbed..id like to anchor my sun dolphin but i think its to unstable, ive seen others do it but it makes me feel uneasy
Thanks for watching and subscribing! Be safe out there.
I had that twirling problem with that compact anchor too, i just put a swivel between my chain rode and anchor..my tip: have a separate line for an anchor buoy and attach it to the business end of the anchor, when ur ready to go pull up the anchor by the buoy, since it pulls it from the opposite end it unhhoks itself instead of digging in, ive never lost an anchor this way
Great content. I have 3 boat and never learnt to anchor right. Now I been crappie on the right spot with out an expensive gps spot troller.
Thanks! Glad you find the videos helpful.
I believe you keep more stuff in your kayak than i do in my boat lmao. I anchor the same way . 1 anchor and drift sock works perfect.
+stephenjray1988 That's the damn truth! All the extra gear is one of the reasons I prefer to drift than anchor.
@@KayakCatfish So normally you won't anchor and just put out the sock? Asking cuz I tested my anchor for the first time yesterday and had the issue you mentioned cuz I didn't have the sock. I feel like with a sock off the bow you could hook up and have the fish run your line into it and create a mess.
Wow, thanks for including the key safety tips in your video! I am new to boating. So I have little experience with anchors. First boat I was intending to use an anchor with was my new fishing kayak and damn, I could have gotten myself killed because I had no clue any of the stuff you mentioned could happen. Glad the first day I tried to use my anchor it became a tangled mess which made me have to forget the idea entirely until I had figured out a way to deal with the tangle issue. That's what lead me to your video. You told me how to fix my tangle issue but found out tangles were the least of my worries!
Glad you found the video helpful. Stay safe out there.
I feel the same way. I have a canoe and I just thought well tie the rope and anchor on the side and that would be good 😢 I'm a 63 year old grandma I'm glad I didn't have an anchor when I had my eight year old grandson in the boat
I lost my last anchor because I didn't have a floatation device attached to the rope, thanks for that tip!
You def have a bunch of kayak fishing knowledge thanks
Thanks for watching!
Thank you for this video. I’ve got a 16’ old town canoe I’m going to apply this to. Hopefully with a bit larger anchor and windsock I can achieve similar results
Thanks for the info! I was the one that asked about all the anchor stuff. This was really helpful! I am considering buying a kayak, and was concerned about how to anchor correctly. Thanks!
+Big Cat River Fishing No problem. Glad to help!
That anchor detachment system is pretty smart.
Thanks! Always better to be safe than sorry.
Please explain how you attache the drift sock when you are anchored? What you said was a bit confusing to me??
I just attach it my anchor trolley with a carabiner clip
Hey sir just thought about getting into kayak fishing. Deciding on type of kayak etc gear etc . Great video and great safety tips . Mostly what you said it’s safe to assume to really not have a anchor ... unless anchor fishing
Thank you for watching! I hope you give kayak fishing a shot. It’s a lot of fun. You are right about the anchor. Unless you are doing a type of fishing that you need to anchor for, it is safer to just not anchor at all.
its because you didnt completely tie your rope on the hole at the top of your folding anchor. thats the reason why the anchor spins foot first when you pull it up. if you notice the small hole on the top most part of the anchor, the purpose of that hole is to budge the anchor out easily, and pull it up head first with minimal resistance.
+steven lloyd I used the zip tie trick when I was using the folding anchor. The zip tie method helps keep from losing anchors that get hung but it prevents you from pulling the anchor up from that top hole that you are referring to. That is definitely the way to go though if you are fishing in places where you aren't likely to get your anchor snagged.
Can you explain use of both holes in folding anchor. Do you thread rope thru both holes and tie at small hole. Or separate parallel rope for each
if you have a problem with the grapnel style anchor spinning, couldn't you just put a swivel on your chain so it doesn't twist your line (same concept as a swivel on your fishing line)?
+Wayne Wood Yes, I am sure that would probably work. Thanks for sharing.
I have this problem and a swivel hasnt helped at all
A lead .. Cod sinker 3 to 4 lb works fantastic ! they are shaped like a "Twinkie" about the same size... will dig into mud... the best
...the heck is a Cod sinker? Is it like a window weight?
When I took the course, 50 years ago, on Chapman's Seamanship and Small Boat Handling, one of the points covered was that the person piloting the boat was legally responsible for their wake. You cause a smaller craft to capsize, you are legally liable.
I am not a lawyer, this ruling might have been overturned. I do know that it does make sense on lakes and other bodies of water where there is no barge traffic. It saves lives and fishing gear replacement costs.
Kayaking strong flowing bodies or placid bodies of water and not wearing a life vest? The directions are on the sole, dummies.
I'm in Knoxville fishing out of a Hobie PA17. There are a couple different ways to tie off to the folding anchor, one involves using a steel rod to make something similar to your slip ring anchor. When are you putting your hot peppers out this year? I also plant a garden. Thanks for the video.
That's a monster sized boat anchor way way bigger than any kayaker I've ever seen!
+BloodSweatnBass It weighs 5lbs but it does have a big profile. That is the one drawback to using this style anchor in the kayak.
then u've never fished on the Tn. River... it moves right along...
Thank you for sharing, I'm gonna get the drift sock too to stabilize the kayak when anchored. How long is the line for the drift sock? So it doesn't get in the way with the fishing lines.
Very informative, great video!
I put a rope on the small end of the drift sock and attach it to the trolley ring with a colored carabiner. Usually red. If I need to pull it in quickly I can differentiate which end im pulling on via the red carabiner. This way you’re NOT working against the drift sock.
That’s some great tips I just bought a kayak myself and it was very helpful. Thank you
Thanks! Glad you found it helpful.
I heard a bell weight works great. Wont snag but will hold.
use a chain swivel to eliminate the rope twist from the anchor spinning
Mkay
you go to a Bicycle shop ask for old bike tubes they'll usually give them for free and slide cut tube over the chain
That’s a great idea. Thank you for sharing!
All the videos of yours I have watched are excellent. A couple questions though Are you concerned at all with the depth of moving water when you anchor? I sturgeon fished a lot on the Columbia River and we typically used 7-10 times the depth to anchor. That's a lot of rope but it was necessary. Maybe the kayak is different in that respect. Secondly, they make swivels that you could tie in 6' or so above the anchor that spins, maybe that would help? Anyway, I cant wait to watch more of your videos, very entertaining with no BS like most fishing vids. Thank you.
Thanks! No, I am not as concerned with rope length here. Our current flow is very light, usually 0.5mph, and since I use a much heavier anchor than what is really necessary, it helps me offset the need for more rope.
Thanks for mentioning the dangers of anchoring a kayak in a river I just bought first kayak and did not think about the danger but is it a must to fish a kayak with a anchor trolley or will I be OK without one
A lot of people don’t use an anchor trolley. I personally wouldn’t anchor without one. If you don’t use one, make sure you can cut or release your rope quickly in the event of an emergency.
This was an excellent video JJ. I've been wondering how you anchor in deep water. Since I've only recently begun to river fish for catfish, this is very helpful to learn from the master.
+Adventure Outdoors Awesome! Glad you found it helpful!
Good tips and instruction - very useful.
Thank you!
Can you make a playlist for “how to” videos
If a guy added something serving as a swivel to the anchor to lessen twist, would that work?
Im sure it would probably work.
Good advice and great video always- safety first. Thanks Justin
Ahhh i like the drift sock idea great!
Thanks for the info. Very informative
Hey nice video, very informative and thanks for sharing how you do things. I'm a new subscriber and just looking back at some old videos. Good job and keep it up
Thanks! I appreciate you checking out the older videos.
Extremely useful information! Thanks
Was hoping you'd catch a catfish just to top it all off!
Thanks! Glad you found it helpful
I use the grapple anchor setup I put a swivel off of a castnet it works great
sharing thanks for sharing. I am new to kayaking. I love it but it's going to be a learning curve LOL. thanks for the safety tips. those were things I did not realize.
+Jim Bilbrey Thanks for watching! I am working on a post for my blog with more safety tips when anchoring. It will be posted on Thursday at KayakCatfish.com
Grate video lots of information.What is the small paddle for by your bait bucket?
Thanks! The small paddle is a backwater hand paddle. I use it for minor corrections when I am drifting and it also doubles as my bait bucket lid.
A quick tip you can wrap the chain in duct tape to keep it quite.
+Black Warrior Lures That's a good idea. Thanks for the tip!
Black Warrior Lures thats a really good idea, thank you! Been using paracord and a brick to anchor hahahaha. But getting a real one today didnt even consider how loud it would be
Glad it helped. It work pretty well.
Guys try bike tubes. Cut open, slide chain through them you can tape the ends and works great,, TIGHT LINES
Or something like rod covers. Kellums grip nylon..pull tight and heat shrink it.
I want to know what kind of kayak I need to be able to fish out of. Standing up sounds crazy but I see people doing it. What’s my best bet beginner kayak for fishing.
Thanks for the info
You’re welcome. Thank you for watching!
good tips, thanks for making this
Very informative thank you so much 👍👍
Glad you found it helpful. Thanks for watching!
I'll flip a kayak anywhere. Yeehaul!!!! Don't be afraid to get wet.
What would be a good size drift sock for a 10ft fishing kayak?
Excellent instruction
WoW .... I get the concept and need for a chain .... but that looks like A LOT of anchor n chain.
I don't think I want to be in a Kayak where THAT MUCH weight is needed to anchor .... you are a bigger better man than me.
Hi there I'm a fan of your videos, can you make a video when you pull out the anchor at deep waters and fast current. The second time I did that the anchor got stuck 2 time the first got loose when the cable tie snatched but the second didn't get out the current was really fast and I bearly holded the rope, the time I knew what going to happen it was too late thankfully I was able to cut the whole anchor system at the time the yak was flipping and got in the water without the yak tied to the bottom. And I managed to flip it again from the first time before it swamped (sit in kayak 🤷♂️) was at night I had 2 winter jackets on me and I got really Lucky the car was about 6-7km from me I was on the outer part of an island in the river and no way to make it to my Viechle without the yak, I got lucky really lucky. Any ways have you experienced stuck anchor in fast current.
What type of kayak do you recommend that allows standing? Price ranges & who sells them?
Everybody’s body type and abilities are different. It would be impossible for me to recommend a kayak to you when I know nothing about you. I would suggest going to a demo day at a local dealer so you can try out several different brands and models to see which best suits your needs.
Purchase any kayak of your need and add some stabilisers you can stand all day with stabilisers
Man, I'm tellin' ya. I haven't anchored my little boat boat in a long time. There is much barge traffic, and I'm always below the dam. I used one of those grapple anchors in my old pirogue. Many people don't know these tips apply to all small craft.
I have a slipring anchor. A lot of people call it a Danforth or fluke anchor. The chain is a must for these anchors.
+Black Warrior Lures It is definitely my favorite type anchor. I used that style when I fished out of the boat as well.
Great videos. Which kayak are you fishing now. Didn't you recently switch? Thanks
Thanks! Yes, I recently switched to a Hobie Pro Angler 14.
Can a drift sock be used off the front of a kayak to help pull you with the current? How deep does the water need to be to use the drift sock? Thanks
Water just needs to be deep enough for the sock to open completely. It will help pull you with the current if the wind is blowing upstream and slowing your kayak down. If there is no wind, the sock wouldn’t open. It would just drift along at the same speed as your kayak in the current.
Kayak Catfish Thanks alot for the quick reply! I just come across your channel today. Lots of great info!
No problem. Glad you find the videos helpful. Thanks for watching!
How do you retrieve it? Do you pull the rope all up and then re wrap it? Or wrap it while pulling it in.
If you have an kayak hat doesn't stand, an anchor can be used fine with an ANCHOR TROLLEY. Never EVER use an anchor on ANY kayak without a trolley. Those pulleys will save your life. Being able to stay parallel to the current is IMPORTANT. Turning your kayak in the current can be deadly. Always a carabener at the triangle.
I agree. I went kayaking on a small lake yesterday and was going to anchor off in the middle of my kayak, and thought this doesn't feel right since every ship/boat I've seen the anchor drops from the front or back.
@@drjekelmrhyde thanks for sharing that experience. I appreciate you replying. I don't know how a lake might be but current is scary and can force you to tip when an anchor snags a tree and you can't recover
@fishnrepeat It was the wind that was freaking me out. I absolutely know about water currents, because I fell into the Chicago River in high school. The current was so strong that it dang near had me in a full horizontal position, luckily I was luckily enough to be holding a branch and a friend was their to pull me back up. That river looks super calm, but that current underneath eats at the bank giving you a false sense of security .
About drift socks i have a 10ft kyack and i dont have much room on it due too a lot of stuff on it (i can stand on it) and i saw the drift sock at acdemy sports for $13.00 and is 21 inches and do you think that is big enough you make great vids i learned a lot from you and you deserve a lot more subscribers thanks.
I don’t think a 21 inch drift sock will do much for you. Kayaks are just so light weight, the wind can really play havoc. I would go with at least a 30”.
Thanks, Justin!
Is there ever a case where your anchor is stuck on the bottm, and if so how can you free it
Yes. It happens from time to time. That’s why I have gone to the setup in this video with the slip ring style and piece of chain in front of the anchor. When it gets hung, I just try to get behind it and tug and also hit from as many different directions as possible until it works free. Sometimes you just can’t break it loose though.
Thanks for a great video- very clear explanations of a somewhat complex topic. I have a question about deploying the drift sock. The anchor trolley has one ring (clip-in point). You've got your anchor clipped into that and deployed aft in this case. How are you going to deploy the drift sock off the bow? If you have more than one ring (clip-in) the trolley rope will not be able to make its full travel as the second ring will hit a pulley. Are you using two separate anchor trolleys...one on port and one on starboard?
Thank you for watching! Yes, I have an anchor trolley on both sides of my kayak. I put the anchor on one side and deploy the drift sock off the other.
If your kayak can have a rudder attached to it can you use one instead of a drift sock?