What is the best way to free a fouled anchor?

• A. Cut the anchor line
• B. Use a separate buoy anchor
• C. Run in a wide circle slowly to change the angle of pull
• D. Apply more weight to the anchor

Answer: (C)

To free a fouled anchor, you change the pull direction on the anchor by moving the vessel. Running in a wide circle slowly alters the angle between the anchor line and the seabed, which helps the anchor pivot or the line to slip over an obstruction. This gradual change often breaks the grip of weed, sand, or rock and allows the anchor to release so you can haul it up. Keep the maneuver smooth and controlled to avoid sudden loads on the gear or losing control of the vessel.

Cutting the anchor line abandons the gear and is not a preferred method. Using a separate buoy anchor doesn’t address the snag at the bottom, and adding more weight tends to make the fouling worse.