Purchase PVC boat anchor It's not just a desire to add comfort, it's a necessity for those who value their time and energy on the water, so imagine that you no longer have to manually poison an anchored falsehead, standing in the scorching sun or in the pouring rain, risking soiling your hands and clothes. Automating the anchoring process makes fishing or relaxing fun, allowing you to focus on the main thing.
The modern market offers a variety of solutions, from budget Chinese winches to premium American systems. Electromechanical anchor It allows you to instantly fix the boat on a point, which is especially critical when fishing on the current or in windy weather, and it is important to understand that the choice of device depends on many factors, including the weight of the boat, the depth of the reservoir and the type of bottom.
In this article, we will discuss in detail what to look for if you decide to squirtIt's a great way to get it on an inflatable boat, and it's a mistake for newcomers to make, and it's a very good way to get it right, and it can last for years without requiring a lot of maintenance.
Advantages of Automation of Anchorage
The main advantage of using anchor-winch And the idea of saving time and effort is that you don't have to manually pick an anchor that can weigh between 3 and 10 kilograms, along with a chain and algae, every time. Electrical drive It takes all the load on itself, allowing even a fragile person to easily control the anchor system.
Automation also improves safety, and when the wind is soaring or you have to get out of your seat, you can do it at the touch of a button without being distracted by the motor, which is especially important for single fishermen, who have to control multiple processes at once.
Another plus is accuracy. Electromechanical anchor It allows the anchor to be released at a controlled rate, which ensures that it falls to the bottom and engages correctly. Manual drop often leads to entanglement of the rope or improper anchoring.
- 🚀 Instant reaction to changing weather conditions
- 💪 Reducing physical activity on fishermen
- 🎣 Possibility of accurate positioning of the boat
An automatic winch is an investment in comfort and safety that pays off in the first season of active operation.
Criteria of choice: traction force and tension
The first thing to look at if you want to squirtThe rule is that the traction force of the winch should be approximately 15-20% of the total weight of the boat with the crew and equipment. For a standard two-seater PVC boat, the model with the force of 300-400 lbs is most often enough.
The second critical parameter is power voltage. Most boat winches are powered by power. 12 VIt's a powertrain that allows you to connect them directly to the on-board battery, but there are models that can be used to power the battery. 24 Inwhich are less common and require a series connection of two batteries or the presence of a special converter.
⚠️ Warning: Never connect a 12-volt winch to a 24-volt network – this will cause the electric motor to burn instantly and the warranty to be lost.
It is also worth paying attention to the material of gears. Metal gears (steel or bronze) are much more durable than plastic counterparts, which can not withstand the jerking load in high winds. If you plan to use the anchor often, you should not save on this node.
When choosing, consider the speed of the anchor sample. Standard values range from 10 to 20 meters per minute. Higher speed is convenient at greater depths, but puts additional stress on the battery.
Design features for inflatable vessels
Installation of equipment PVC-boat Unlike metal or fiberglass boats, you can't just weld a bracket, so manufacturers offer special mounting pads and transom mounts that spread the load over a large area.
An important element is the weight of the device itself. Light-alloy case With anti-corrosion coating, heavy steel is preferred, since inflatable boats are sensitive to transom overload, and shifting the center of gravity can adversely affect the performance of the vessel.
Note the type of anchor rope. For electromechanical systems, the best combination is the chain at the anchor and the synthetic phala further. The chain provides the correct angle of attack of the anchor paws, and the synthetics are lighter and do not sink, which makes sampling easier.
Comparison of popular models of electric anchors
There are many brands on the market, and it's easy for a beginner to get confused about the specifications. We've analyzed several popular models available to buy to help you decide on your choice.
The leaders of the segment are traditionally considered American brands, such as: Min Kota and LewmarHowever, their cost can be prohibitively high for many anglers. Runva or T-MaxThey offer comparable functionality for less money, but require more thorough checks before buying.
| Model | Traction force (lbs) | Speed (m/min) | Weight (kg) | Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Min Kota 210 | 210 | 12 | 7.5 | Compact, ideal for small boats |
| Lewmar V1 | 500 | 18 | 12.0 | High reliability, vertical installation |
| Runva 450 lbs | 450 | 15 | 9.2 | Best Price/Quality Relationship |
| T-Max 350 | 350 | 14 | 8.8 | Reinforced gearbox, IP67 moisture protection |
When comparing models, pay attention not only to the numbers, but also to the availability of spare parts. Repairability And if you can't find a brush or a gear for a rare model, it can turn into a disposable one.
Instructions for mounting on transom and nose
Installation electro-anchor It requires careful preparation. Most often, the installation is made on the bow of the boat using a special platform, or on a transom if the design of the boat allows. For PVC boats, the safest option is the option with a remote platform attached to stringers or cylinders through protective tapes.
The installation process begins with the mounting points, and you need to make sure that the bolt holes do not damage the power elements of the inflated cylinder, use special rubber or fluoroplastic gaskets to seal and protect the material.
☑️ Preparation for installation
The electrical part requires special attention. The wires must be sufficiently cross-sectional to avoid a voltage drop. All connections must be thermally insulated and treated with a moisture-protective spray. Automatic fuse is installed in the gap of the plus wire directly at the battery.
⚠️ Warning: Lay the cable so that it never touches the sharp edges or moving parts of the boat, otherwise there is a risk of short circuit on the water.
After mechanical attachment and electrical connection, run a test run on land, check the work in both directions, make sure there are no extraneous noises and vibrations.
Lubricate all threaded joints with lithium lubrication before final assembly - this will protect them from acidification with salt and water.
Whistle maintenance and care
And electromechanical anchor It's been in the water for a long time, it needs regular care, and after every time it goes out, especially if it's in salt water, it needs to be rinsed with fresh water, and it's aggressively affecting metal parts and electrical contacts.
Once a season, it is recommended to prevent the gearbox, remove the old lubricant, and lay a new one, specialized for marine use, and do not use conventional car lubricants that can be washed out with water.
Check the condition of the anchor rope or chain. A synthetic scuff or a sprained chain link is a signal for immediate replacement. A deep rope break is not only a loss of anchor, but also a potential danger to the engine screw.
How to store a winch in winter?
Remove the device from the boat, clean dirt and salt, lubricate the metal parts with conservation grease and store it in a dry room at room temperature. Don't leave the winch in the cold, as the plastic and lubricant can lose their properties.
Where to buy and what to pay attention to when ordering
If you've decided Buying an electric anchor for a PVC boat, it is important to choose a reliable supplier. Official fishing equipment dealers offer warranty and service support. Buying on marketplaces can be cheaper, but requires careful vetting of the seller and feedback.
Pay attention to the package. The box should not only have the winch itself, but also the control panel, the assembly kit, the instruction in a clear language and the warranty card. The lack of the remote is a frequent ploy of unscrupulous sellers.
Pricing depends on the exchange rate and logistics, so compare offers in different stores. Sometimes it makes sense to pay for a model with a higher class of water protection. IP67 or IP68Then we can repair the device.
- 🛡️ Official guarantee from the manufacturer
- 📦 Full equipment (control, wires, fasteners)
- 🚚 Possibility of return in case of marriage
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use an electric anchor on the current?
Yes, you can, but you need to calculate the traction force correctly. In strong currents, the load on the anchor increases many times over, and it is recommended to take a winch with a power reserve of at least 30% of the design.
Does the electric anchor plant the battery?
The current in the operating mode is 30-60 Amps. Short-term switches for parking correction are low, but long-term work (more than 10-15 minutes continuously) can significantly discharge a weak battery.
Do I need to remove the winch for winter storage?
It's advisable to remove the device, clean it and lubricate it, and if you leave it on the boat in an unheated space, the condensation inside the gearbox can freeze and damage the gears on the first run.
How long is an anchor rope needed?
The length of the rope should be at least 3-4 times the maximum depth at the fishing site. For most rivers and lakes, 30-40 meters are considered the optimal length.
Can you control a winch leg?
Some models support foot pedaling, but for PVC boats, this is rare because of the complexity of installation. Standard control is carried out by a wired or wireless remote in the hand.