Anchor for Kayaks

I have used a grapple style anchor (3lb) for the last three years without any major safety issues in wind 10-15mph and rivers - it does take a little work to get yourself into the best position to cast, but it's better than drifting in the wind/current. I used to think that an anchor AND anchor trolley were the most important accessories (besides the paddle....) for my kayak UNTIL this weekend. Went to Maine for three days of fishing and picked up a wind sock from Cabela's on my way up. The lakes we were fishing were deep, and with only 50' of anchor line and windy conditions I didn't really want to deal with the anchor. The wind sock will now be on my kayak at all times. According to my Humminbird unit, the wind (10-15mph with 20-25mph gusts) was moving me between 2.5 - 3.5 mph - much too fast to fish effectively. With the wind sock I could slow my drift down to .5 mph easily, and only takes a few seconds to pull in and change locations.

I think both have their time and place, as does a stake out pole. Be smart and stay safe!

I've heard that Boston is actually the windiest city on average in the continental US, and having bicycle commuted for several years I believe it (you're never not riding into it). Yesterday was a good day with only a 13mph NNW wind, so waiting doesn't seem feasible to me. Stump, I'm just gonna go for it and get the trolley system plus an anchor and drift sock. Ordered em this morning, so I'll post pics/updates on the installation and whatnot if you're still on the fence.

Sounds good Walleye, I may do something this week as well.
Thanks for all the feedback guys!
I appreciated it!

Trolley system is the way to go. .. many videos on YouTube for making them.

I've heard that Boston is actually the windiest city on average in the continental US, and having bicycle commuted for several years I believe it (you're never not riding into it). Yesterday was a good day with only a 13mph NNW wind, so waiting doesn't seem feasible to me. Stump, I'm just gonna go for it and get the trolley system plus an anchor and drift sock. Ordered em this morning, so I'll post pics/updates on the installation and whatnot if you're still on the fence.

Its more or less truehttp://www.city-data.com/top2/c467.html12 of the top 20 are in MA. Not sure how accurate that site is though.