The necessities for all kayakers are kayak anchors and kayak leashes. If you use your craft to fish, bird watch, swim, or dive, you want a method of keeping your boat in one place, you should have an anchor. If you are participating in activities where you do not want to go adrift, using this part is an ideal way to keep your boat stable and in one place even in harsh conditions.

The hardware comes in various sizes, shapes, and weights. Many companies sell not simply an anchor but a complete anchor system which includes all associated items such as an anchor, an anchor line, a cleat, a pulley wheel, an anchor float, the necessary installation hardware, as well as a carrying case and carabineers. It usually weighs anywhere from one and half pounds to three pounds.

One option used for securing your craft that is not often found with anchors for other crafts is a folding anchor which takes up less room. This is convenient because there is not a lot of room in a canoe or kayak. The foldable anchor is the most popular type; because it folds up on the bottom and lies flat on the sides. The claw anchor is a good all around type of anchor and will work in moderate to slow fresh water currents; however, if you kayak frequently in a body of water that has a muddy or sandy bottom the manta anchor works better than the claw anchor. Normally, these types of hardware can be used in a water depth of up to 70 feet.

Another common type of hardware is the stake-out pole. It is used only if you are securing your boat in shallow water of less than two feet. The stake out pole is simply a stake that you push into the bottom of the body of water and attach to your kayak. This type of anchor works great if you come ashore in shallow water.

Another piece of equipment that is must for kayakers are leashes! A paddle leash is a piece of equipment that keeps your paddle secured to the boat but does not interfere with your paddling. It is not an expensive piece of equipment but sure nice to have if you should inadvertently let go of your paddle while fishing, or go overboard on purpose to swim or by accident due to rough water. If one of these incidents occur and you do not have a paddle leash, you may only have one chance if that to make a grab for your paddle and if you miss? Being a kayaker without a paddle is not a good thing; therefore, it is highly recommended that you use a paddle leash. There are two types of paddle leashes that you can purchase: coil type and the bungee type. Some people make their own by purchasing the necessary items from their local hardware store. These leashes are not only used to attach the paddle to the kayak but also used to attach fishing rods, fishing gear, etc. to their craft.

Author Bio: Stewart Wrighter has recently found several items for a camping trip by searching for the term kayak anchors on the internet. He ordered kayak leashes on the internet to use for an upcoming fishing trip.

Category: Recreation
Keywords: kayak anchors,kayak leashes