kayak drift anchors

 Rumors of a possible wet winter have inspired some hope for 2016 creek/river runs. It has also inspired me to start brainstorming and getting my creek boat ready.
So, I decided to consult the NCkA think tank regarding drift anchors and what is currently being used.
 I plan on using either the 7-9# pyramid or the 5-7# chain sheathed in a bike tube, both proven on task, but I am curious what others will be using and if there is a superior method that I am not aware of.

Terry, Sounds like a proven method. My concern is the chain (on my set-up) won't allow me to raise the pyramid anchor completely out of the water. Would like to see your "newest" anchor pulley (on the stern) to see how you might get that much length of material high enough? I remember one of your PVC tube set-ups that would allow for the chain to ride up in the pipe.

O2B, I think terry is planning to use just the drag chain, without the pyramid.  I haven't personally tried a drag chain but have heard of plenty of others who think it works well.

We used crank shafts out of cars back in Florida.  They work REALLY well for boats on top of Oyster/Shale bottom.  I know, quite different application/size, but a concept if we had something small enough.

Terry, Sounds like a proven method. My concern is the chain (on my set-up) won't allow me to raise the pyramid anchor completely out of the water. Would like to see your "newest" anchor pulley (on the stern) to see how you might get that much length of material high enough? I remember one of your PVC tube set-ups that would allow for the chain to ride up in the pipe.

O2B, I think terry is planning to use just the drag chain, without the pyramid.  I haven't personally tried a drag chain but have heard of plenty of others who think it works well.

 Either the pyramid or the chain, but used separately.  Im using the Jackson Coosa for rivers and it has a molded track in the hull that keeps the chain in place and all the way out of the water when not deployed.

If I am using the pyramid I need to use the SBD crafted arm that will keep the anchor clear of the water.

http://jacksonkayak.com/blog/2015/02/15/coosa-drift-anchor-cali-steelhead/

 
It is VERY probable that the majority of river runners here are already using the best possible anchor with the pyramid style. The drag chain is popular in other kayak fishing cultures, but without some sort of shaft or track to hold the chain when not deployed, the chain has a big negative.
I hope to be skilled with both.

 Here are some other styles that I found out in the web.

And a photo of my concept turned operational failure with a chain/ ABS shaft combo.
Once the chain was "rubberized" it wouldn't slide out of the shaft and the process was too noisy without.
That was not the right boat for me to fish out of anyway.


 

My 160i was set up by Ariel but I never used it that way. Has a nice little pulley on the back but I don't think my pyramid would clear the water and drag using it. I have never really used an anchor as a drift anchor per say. It seems that the chains or lead tubes would not stop you in decent current if you really wanted to stay put. When I anchor I usually plan on staying in one spot for a while. It looks like a good idea being able to pull all the way up on deck like the ones pictured.

I use a pyramid anchor for rivers, but on the delta I drag about 4 feet of heavy chain.  The chain works great, straight chain with no covering on it.

It seems that the chains or lead tubes would not stop you in decent current if you really wanted to stay put. When I anchor I usually plan on staying in one spot for a while. It looks like a good idea being able to pull all the way up on deck like the ones pictured.

Hey Rob
 This is a slightly different style than anchoring in one spot for an extended time.
Its more for slowing your descent. Feels like controlling time on the river.

I try not to have the pyramid deployed when currents are strong enough that I'm dragging it.
If its that strong, I should be paddling and I'm at risk to snag and swim.
The "snag-less" chain and tube combo is different. I feel more comfortable letting this style drag just to slow things down enough to focus on the perfect presentation.
I was initially skeptical about anchoring in currents, but my compadres convinced me to try and I quickly became a believer. Being able to hold a position to re-rig, document, and set up optimal casting angles, convinced me that the associated risks involved are manageable.
Appropriate terrain shots.


 

I have a quick release system on my kayak, probably the smartest thing to have when anchoring.  One pull on a line and I am safely disconnected from my anchor.  I just paddle back up stream and grab the float that is connected to my anchor.

I use a pyramid anchor for rivers, but on the delta I drag about 4 feet of heavy chain.  The chain works great, straight chain with no covering on it.

4 feet of heavy chain sounds challenging.
Thats way beyond the ultra-light anchoring that I am looking for but its still interesting.
Do you have photos of your system?


My first attempt.

I recently purchased an anchor wizard (not the full system, just the chute), and haven't got around to mounting it yet, still trying to figure out how to do it on my Slayer 10.  I think it will work well though.  How well it will work with a pyramid I don't know, but I think it could work with a drag chain with a ball at the end.

Here is the set up I use on the Revo. Designed to allow full use of the rudder system...turning and retracting. Anchoring for me is usually just to re-bait in calm water and occasionally to fight a fish if the water is not too swift. Quick release is a must!! Be safe if you put a drift anchor on your kayak. Test it in different flows of water and know it's limits...things can go bad in a real hurry.

Ps I will build one for any Hobie owner for ONE MILLION Dollars and you would have to sign/notarize a Hold Harmless Contract. 

Here is the set up I use on the Revo. Designed to allow full use of the rudder system...turning and retracting. Anchoring for me is usually just to re-bait in calm water and occasionally to fight a fish if the water is not too swift. Quick release is a must!! Be safe if you put a drift anchor on your kayak. Test it in different flows of water and know it's limits...things can go bad in a real hurry.

Ps I will build one for any Hobie owner for ONE MILLION Dollars and you would have to sign/notarize a Hold Harmless Contract. 

Do you still have access to Patrick and a telephone pole? 

I like the sash weight anchor. Millions of old iron ones lying around Cal from all the old Victorians.