question about anchor line size

[bgriff]

I'm getting ready to rig up my kayak with an anchor and trolley system. I'll be using a 3lb collapsible anchor. What size rope should I use? Also what type of cleat do you use and why?

[RxForFishin]

I went with an inexpensive yellow marine rope from a local walmart. I believe it has something like a 100 lb load limit, which is more than enough. The length of the rope you need depends on the depth you are fishing. With the collapsable anchor, I suggest tying to the bottom of the anchor and using a zip-tie to attach the line to the top. Doing so will allow you to pull hard enough to break the zip tie and easily bring up the anchor if it becomes snagged. Hope this helps.

[bgriff]

Thanks for the info. I guess I should have been a little more specific. I was looking for what size diameter line. 1/4", 3/8", 1/2"?

[ronaultmtd]

I use 75 feet of 1/4" braided nylon- even that small diameter is overkill since I use a four pound anchor- para chord would work fine, but is so small as to make it easy to cut your skin if it gets hung up-

[Southerly]

I have a yellow 1/4" line from west marine. I think it's polypropylene = it floats. whatever you get - I suggest looking for a decent-quality, 'limp' line. if not, it will constantly want to jump into tangles and knots. and you don't want to waste time and focus fighting with your anchor line.

[rob-kayak]

If you haven't already thought about it.. don't forget a float at the end of the line.
I use a piece of foam noodle.

[bgriff]

Thanks for the input guys. Here's another question for ya. What type of cleat do you use to tie off your anchor line? Cam, Clam, or standard cleat. I was thinking of using cam cleat because of the size and the ability to quickly release the line if I needed to. If you could tell me what you use and why I'd appreciate it.

[RavensDfense]

Cam cleat all the way. A super easy release is important for safety reasons (incoming boat traffic) and if you target larger fish that you want to fight off anchor. I have two. One in the front and one in the back in case I have more than one anchor rigged up.

[skunkwhisperer]

Issue being, small line puts less water over the gunnel yet is tougher to untie and CAN cut you deep (wet skin). By the time your outer skin gives, you are getting a good one... Small line can be quite strong, and can take up less room if handled well...

I sub a few wraps of copper for the zip tie, but a must all the same.
I use a small wire spool with multiple hitch-off points, floated in case, clipped to my crate so it dont bang around much... Trolleyed of course.

I'd love to hear any better ideas fellas. I would love it if it would get out of the way faster when a big one hits...

BTW, first post. Never lurked, so y'all are all new to me. -Matt Granger, 35, sick with the bug Howdy all!!

[ronaultmtd]

welcome-