Reef Anchor?

How important is chain on reef anchor? It helps get anchor down and protects against sharp surface cutting rope. But then it adds to cost when you lose anchor, and is that much more to handle in boat. I’ve been using chain but question, is it worth it? I’ve been using 6’, but could also shorten length to compromise? Have others left chain off or used shorter piece?
Thanks
Roger

Chain is absolutely worth it for getting the anchor down and abrasion resistance. 6-10’ is preferred.

I would add that ‘inshore’, in creeks etc would be the ONLY exception.

“The big one’s still swimming, let’s go.”

Agree with Capt. Rap - - I had 12 ft of heavy chain on one, and tangled it up under the 526 bridge - - now down to 6 ft of a lighter chain.

“Don’t tell fish stories where people know you; but particularly, don’t tell them where they know the fish.” Mark Twain

agree it is almost necessary, but do be careful about getting the chain wrapped up on any structure you’re trying to anchor on offshore…lost a couple because we gave too much slack…

The Morris Island Lighthouse www.savethelight.org

i use 25’ of heavy chain when scuba aboard.

10’ lighter chain when not.

No chain
Use 1/2 line
Slide a section of garden hose over the line near the anchor.
Garden hose takes the abuse.

Also, refer to it as a wreck anchor as that’s what we do, anchor on wrecks.
If you call it a reef anchor, people think your are anchoring on and damaging natural reefs.

When anchoring near natural reefs, anchor in the sand with a normal anchor and drift back over the reef.

Use 15’ of chain and have the anchor set up to bottom trip.

Mark
Pioneer 222 Sportfish Yamaha F300
Yeah, but do you consider a dog to be a filthy animal? I wouldn’t go so far as to call a dog filthy but they’re definitely dirty. But, a dog’s got personality. Personality goes a long way.

“Life’s tough…It’s even tougher if you’re stupid” John Wayne

Have never had an issue with chain. Had a few times the chain kept the anchor from getting cut off.