Ok my question is do you prefer side mount system or the one in the middle of the transom for drift boat anchors? My boat came witht he side mount, ok I ordered it that way not knowing any diferent. And I was wondering the benifits and drawbacks of both. I did see a boat the other day with both on it and made me think that in some situations one would be better than the other. Being new to the whole driftboating thing. What is your preference on anchor weights also? My boat is 17'. Thanks

Side pull gives you more leverage, but is more complicated, With a 17' boat your probably running a 30#+ anchor, side pull will reduce the work. I like to keep it simple with a transom mount and rope pinch. With that system I can keep the rope out of the way in back of the boat, it's also easier to drop anchor when I'm standing up fishin.

Dog,
I have the same boat you have a 17ft willies and have a side pulley system but my anchor bracket is in the middle. I have holes to mount it on the side when using a kicker but it tends to kick the boat to the right when I pull anchor. So when just drifting I mount it in the middle. As far as anchors when I'm fishin good winter spring flows I got a 35lber I use that holds me rock tight. When the rivers are really down I got a 30lber thats now more like a twenty that I use but it tends not to hold as good in the fast water. Hope this helps.

Tight lines

Kevin

SRBC

They put on the side for motor clearance! If thats what you want. I put my electric motor on the side and use a center mount. In fast water when anchored a side mount will tend to twist the boat, consequently the boat will get pushed down stream immediatly because the chine is now plowing. A center pull will usaually keep the boat strait and it will actually sit for a few seconds before it starts moving down stream, giving you time to grab the oars and get the boat in control. assuming its a Willie or something designed comparably. This is particularly important when you have a slot you want to fish on anchor and the water is very fast your anchored in and directly below it is a hazard or tight fit were a twisted boat can mean the difference of making it or slamming into it sideways! Some boats are tubs and wont hold for anything! One key factor is to make sure your boat is set up properly. You dont want the back being pushed form the current. Ive seen some mass produced boats "A" that drag even with 2 guys in it. My Willie wont drag with 4! It may have been that the boat was set up wrong but Ive had 4 boats now and nothing Ive ever rowed acts like my Willie.

Bob D

Hey guys thanks for the info. I drifted with it for the first time the other day and the things you have mentioned were problems. I will probably get a 30# anchor. The one I have right now is a 40# and seems like over kill in this low water. I am also going to get the bracket to mount in the center of the transom for ease an safety till I get a lot better with the boat. Need to get it back out but been doing to well off the bank lately, My partner and I hooked 9 springers last night. Thanks again. Firedog