The 10 Best Kayak Anchors

Every piece of the Compass Kit (around $33) is thoughtfully designed, from the steel folding anchor that's painted red for excellent visibility to the bonus 5-liter dry bag. These touches ensure you won't have to worry about rust or broken gear anytime soon.

Owners of small watercraft won't need to sacrifice much space to store the Best Folding (about $30), because it's a tidy 12 x 3 inches when closed. But to make stowing it even easier, the set includes a nifty nylon storage bag that cinches via a drawstring.

You've got the option of either 1.5 or 3.25 pounds with the Seattle Sports Kit (around $34), so if your vessel is truly lightweight, you don't have to carry around more anchor than you need. You'll also receive 50 feet of bright yellow line and two carabiners.

The OceanMotion Foldable (appx. $30) is fine to use as it is, especially since it comes with reflective rope, but if you want to add a longer line, it uses a removable shackle for your convenience. However you configure it, you can store it in the handy padded cinch-top bag.

To be clear, the YakAttack LeverLoc (about $35) doesn't include an actual anchor. Instead, it's a trolley system that makes your existing model more versatile by giving you better control for fishing in windy conditions or in fast currents.

Go ahead and put the YakGear YakStick (around $50) to the test. With its high-strength fiberglass construction, it won't snap or let you down. Plus, it's comfortable, with a beefy foam grip that ensures it works equally well as a push pole as it does a stakeout stick.

This Danielson Mushroom (around $20) isn't necessarily a go-to in all situations, since it usually adds double the weight of a grapnel model, takes up more room, and doesn't function as well in swift currents or wind. On the other hand, it's a bit less likely to get stuck.

The Extreme Max BoatTector (around $24) kit is proof you don't have to spend a pretty penny to get all the basics that you need, from a folding, galvanized anchor to a marker buoy. And, unlike many, it comes in a larger 5.5-pound option.

If you'd like to slow down, rather than come to a complete halt, the Moocy Drift Sock (around $19) is a drag — but in a good way. It's made from a rugged ripstop fabric that can take some abuse, and when you're finished, it folds flat for hassle-free portability.

Although plenty of options are sold in kits, the Extreme Max Folding (about $13) is just an anchor, so if you need a replacement, it's one to consider. Offered in both galvanized and stainless steel, it is less expensive than many choices that come complete with accessories.