Best Windlasses For Open Fisherman Boats: What To Choose?

When it comes to choosing the best windlass for an open fisherman boat, there are several factors to consider. Firstly, you'll need to decide between a horizontal or vertical windlass. Horizontal windlasses are often favoured for smaller boats due to their compact design, while vertical windlasses are more popular for larger vessels as they offer greater power and efficient use of deck space. Another aspect to consider is the power source – manual windlasses require elbow grease, while electric and hydraulic windlasses offer push-button convenience. It's also crucial to choose the right windlass for your anchor's size and type, as well as ensuring it aligns with the size of your boat and the available installation space. Lastly, don't forget to set a budget, as prices can vary significantly, and remember that a more expensive windlass often equates to better quality and performance.

Horizontal vs. Vertical Windlass

When it comes to choosing the right windlass for your open fisherman boat, there are two basic configurations to consider: horizontal and vertical. Here's a detailed comparison between the two to help you decide which one best suits your needs:

Horizontal Windlass

A horizontal windlass is characterized by having the motor and gypsy arranged horizontally. This type of windlass offers several advantages. Firstly, it requires less anchor locker space compared to a vertical windlass. A minimum fall of 12 inches above the rode pile is sufficient for gravity to pull the rode into the locker. This makes it ideal for boats with small anchor lockers.

Additionally, horizontal windlasses are typically easier to install and maintain since they are installed completely above the deck, providing straightforward access for maintenance. However, this also means that the motor is more exposed to the elements. Horizontal windlasses also offer more room for stowing chain below and can provide a cleaner run of chain or rode over a high toerail.

When it comes to installation and maintenance, horizontal windlasses are generally easier to work with. Their key components are all above deck, making access and maintenance more straightforward. However, this also means that the motor is more susceptible to the elements and potential damage.

Another factor to consider is the mounting location and anchor setup. Horizontal windlasses need to be mounted precisely with respect to the bow roller, as the rode must be directly in line with the gypsy. This may require off-center mounting.

Horizontal windlasses usually require more deck space than their vertical counterparts, which can lead to clutter and even pose safety hazards. From an aesthetic standpoint, they may not be as visually appealing as vertical windlasses since more of the mechanism is visible above the deck.

Vertical Windlass

Vertical windlasses, on the other hand, have the motor and gypsy arranged vertically, with the motor mounted below the deck. This frees up valuable space at the bow and provides a more streamlined appearance. The motor can often be offset to one side, making it easier to fit the chain locker.

One of the key advantages of vertical windlasses is the way the chain is fed around the gypsy and into the chain pipe. This orientation allows for a more secure lift as it grips more links of the chain simultaneously. Vertical windlasses also offer more flexibility in terms of feed angle, making them a good choice if you have two bow rollers and want to use the windlass with both.

However, vertical windlasses typically require more anchor locker space. They need a minimum fall of 18 inches for the rode to be pulled into the locker, compared to the 12 inches required by horizontal windlasses. Installation and access for service can be more challenging with vertical windlasses due to their below-deck configuration.

The decision between a horizontal and vertical windlass depends on several factors, including the size of your anchor locker, installation and maintenance considerations, placement and ground tackle requirements, and aesthetic preferences. Both types have their advantages and disadvantages, so it's important to carefully consider your specific needs and priorities when making a choice.

Manual vs. Electric vs. Hydraulic

When it comes to choosing a windlass for an open fisherman boat, there are three main types to consider: manual, electric, and hydraulic. Each has its own advantages and is suitable for different situations.

Manual windlasses are the most affordable and easiest to install. They don't require any power or electricity to operate, which reduces the demand on the boat's battery or power supply. Installation is straightforward, as it only involves identifying the right spot and fixing it in place. Operating a manual windlass is also simple, as there are no buttons or switches involved. However, they require physical effort to raise the anchor, which can be inconvenient and cause aches and pains, especially with larger anchors.

Electric windlasses, on the other hand, offer greater convenience and power. They are designed to handle significant weight and can raise large anchors with minimal effort. This saves time and reduces the physical demands on the user. Electric windlasses are also versatile, with varied designs and capacities available to suit different boats. They are typically powered by the boat's existing electrical system, and advanced models can be operated via remote control. However, they require a good understanding of power capacity and wiring for installation.

Hydraulic windlasses provide the most power and efficiency but are generally installed on large yachts due to their requirement for a central hydraulic system. They are extremely efficient and can handle heavy anchors and lines with ease. However, they are likely to be more expensive and may not be necessary for smaller boats or those with less demanding anchoring needs.

When choosing between manual, electric, and hydraulic windlasses, it is essential to consider factors such as the boat's size, design, power rating, cost, brand reputation, pull capacity, and speed. Additionally, the availability of space on the deck or below deck will determine whether a vertical or horizontal windlass is more suitable.

For open fisherman boats, electric windlasses could be a good choice as they offer a balance between power and convenience. They can handle large anchors and make anchoring more efficient, which is beneficial for fishing trips. However, manual windlasses could also be suitable if cost and simplicity are more important factors.

Windlass Power

When it comes to windlass power, there are a few options to consider for your open fisherman boat. The first is a manual windlass, which requires you to provide the energy to operate it. These are usually less expensive, easier to install, and don't need the same wiring or plumbing as electric or hydraulic windlasses. However, they do demand more physical effort.

Electric windlasses, on the other hand, offer a generous amount of lifting power, making anchoring a simple task. They are typically powered by your boat's electrical system and are compact in size. With a push of a button or a foot switch, you can easily deploy or retrieve your anchor.

Hydraulic windlasses provide the most power and are extremely efficient, but they require a central hydraulic system within the yacht. For this reason, they are usually installed on larger yachts.

When choosing the power source for your windlass, consider the size of your boat, the weight of your anchor and ground tackle, and your budget. Electric windlasses are a popular choice for their convenience and power, but manual windlasses can be a more cost-effective option if you don't mind the extra effort.

Additionally, you should also decide between a vertical or horizontal windlass. Vertical windlasses are popular due to their less obtrusive presence on the deck, with the motor and gearbox mounted below deck. They typically use a combination of rope and chain rode and are suitable when there is enough room above the rod fall. Horizontal windlasses, on the other hand, have the motor and gypsy aligned horizontally, making them more compact and ideal for smaller boats.

Windlass Sizing

When choosing a windlass, it is important to consider the size of your boat, the weight of your anchor, the type of rode, and the power source.

The first step is to determine the weight of your anchor and ground tackle (the chain and/or rope attached to your anchor). This is crucial because the windlass needs to have enough "pulling power" to retrieve the anchor and ground tackle. A good rule of thumb is to multiply the total weight of your anchor and ground tackle by a factor of three to get the minimum power rating required for your windlass. For example, if you have a 22-pound anchor and 40 pounds of ground tackle, you would need a windlass with a power rating of more than 186 pounds (22+40=62, 62x3=186).

In addition to the weight of your anchor and ground tackle, you should also consider the displacement of your boat, which refers to the weight of your boat. A heavier boat will require more power from the windlass to move it towards the anchor. If you plan to cruise widely, frequent use of the windlass can also accelerate wear and tear, so it is recommended to opt for a slightly more powerful windlass to compensate.

Another factor to consider is the type of rode you are using. Most people use a rope/chain combination, which offers the advantage of reduced weight in the bow of the boat compared to an all-chain rode. However, an all-chain rode is easier to retrieve and is stronger and more abrasion-resistant. The type of rode you choose will impact the size and type of windlass you need.

Finally, you will need to decide on the power source for your windlass. There are three main options: manual, electric (DC), or hydraulic. Manual windlasses are human-powered and suitable for smaller boats without a lot of battery power. They provide a better mechanical advantage than retrieving the anchor by hand. Electric windlasses are the most popular option as they are easy to install and can be powered by the push of a button or flip of a switch. However, they require a dedicated battery to ensure enough power for retrieval. Hydraulic windlasses offer constant power but require running the main engine to operate and are typically installed on larger yachts with a central hydraulic system.

Windlass Accessories

When it comes to windlass accessories, there are a variety of options that can help improve the performance of your windlass and make anchoring your boat easier. Here are some essential accessories to consider for your open fisherman boat:

Windlass Foot Switches

Foot switches are a convenient way to operate your windlass, allowing you to control the raising and lowering of the anchor with the simple press of a foot pedal. They come in a variety of colours to match your boat's aesthetic, including black, red, and white.

Control Boxes

Control boxes are essential for operating your windlass and come in a range of power ratings to suit your needs. They are available in both 12V and 24V options and can handle power outputs ranging from 500W to 3500W.

Inverters for Two-Pole Motors

Inverters are necessary for operating two-pole motors, which are commonly found in windlass systems. They are available in different amperage ratings, including 80A, 100A, 120A, and 130A, to suit the specific requirements of your windlass motor.

Remote Switches

Remote switches provide the convenience of operating your windlass from anywhere on the boat. They are available in a range of colours, including black and red, and can be purchased in either 12V or 24V options to match your boat's electrical system.

Sprockets, Circuit Breakers, and Geared Motors

These components are essential for the proper functioning of your windlass. Sprockets help drive the chain or rope, circuit breakers protect the electrical system, and geared motors provide the necessary power to raise and lower the anchor.

Chain Counters and Manual Winding Kits

Chain counters allow you to keep track of how much chain or rope has been deployed, ensuring you don't exceed safe limits. Manual winding kits provide a backup option for raising and lowering the anchor in the event of electrical failures.

Universal Remote Controls

Universal remote controls offer the convenience of operating your windlass from anywhere on the boat, giving you greater flexibility and ease of use.

Anchor Lube

Anchor lube is an important maintenance product that helps keep your windlass functioning smoothly. It reduces friction and wear on the moving parts, ensuring your windlass has a longer lifespan.

Frequently asked questions