When choosing an anchor for your Jon boat, you have a few different options. Most people secure a Jon boat with a small “mushroom-style” canoe anchor or a steel fluke anchor. The type of anchor you should select depends on your terrain and water bottom type. Using the right anchor will keep you stable in the middle of the lake from drifting due to the wind or current.
The canoe mushroom-style anchor should get the job done for most anchor needs when using a Jon boat out on a lake with a muddy bottom. Not to mention, using an anchor is a great way to keep yourself sturdy for those who plan on fishing while out on the water.
Here’s a quick list of our top picks for the best Jon boat anchor:
What to Consider
Before making a purchase you’ll want to consider what type of anchor you’re looking for, how long your boat is (most Jon boats are under 20 ft), and whether or not you want a certain anchor head. These could range from mushroom to fluke, and navy style options.
The Best Jon Boat Anchors
These are our favorite Jon boat anchors for those of you who want a good anchor to keep your boat from drifting while out on the water.
YakGear Mushroom Anchor
This mushroom anchor is perfect if you just want a small lightweight anchor to toss in your boat. For occasional use they get the job done. It’s lightweight and sturdy enough to use on a small Jon boat. However, if you do plan on using your anchor with a bigger vessel that’s over 20 ft, you’d be better off looking elsewhere. This is not designed for heavy and larger boat use, as you’ll likely get pushed around.
Pros
- Good value
- Easy to fit onboard
- Mushroom style
Cons
- Somewhat light
- Basic
SeaChoice Utility Anchor
For those who want a quality steel anchor for use with their Jon boat, this is the one to get. The anchor design works for both muddy and sandy bottoms. Their fluke design helps to grip the water bottom and dig in. Do keep in mind this is important to use with the proper rope and chain setup. Otherwise, it may not hold the boat as well as it’s designed to.
Pros
- Durable
- Steel material
- Fluke style
Cons
- Sharp edges
- Somewhat light
SeaChoice Deluxe Anchor
Another anchor made by SeaChoice, this deluxe anchor is the next step up from their utility model. The deluxe features galvanized steel again but with a larger fluke and stock width for use with larger Jon boats between 17 and 24 feet. The anchor also works on both muddy and sandy bottoms, most common where you would use a Jon boat. With a chain and rope, it will get the job done!
Pros
- Galvanized steel
- For larger 17 to 24 feet boats
- Fluke style
Cons
- Heavier/larger
- Sharp edges
Extreme Max River Anchor
Similar to the mushroom style anchors, this extreme max river anchor features a triple fluke design with sizes ranging from 18 to 40 lbs. This works best if you’re in rivers and lakes with more movement and faster currents. The additional weight helps keep you secure in both muddy and rocky bottoms, as well as grass and weeds.
Pros
- Works in areas with stronger currents
- For rivers and lakes
- Vinyl coated
Cons
- Quite heavy
- Only needed in high-drift zones
Airhead Grapnel Anchor System
Although primarily designed for use with PWCs and kayaks, the grapnel anchor system also works great with smaller Jon boats under 20 ft. The lightweight and easy to use design makes it simple to pull out and tuck away when not needed. The anchor works in rock, gravel, sand, and mud. It also comes with a convenient carrying bag, rope, and clip with a small buoy attached.
Pros
- Good value
- Easy to use and sturdy
- Bright high-vis color
Cons
- Only for lightweight boats
- Not great for loose sand
Conclusion
As you can see there are many variations of Jon boat anchors on the market. If you’re looking for a durable, simple anchor, that has enough weight to it, then the YakGear mushroom anchor or SeaChoice fluke anchors are recommended. But, if you want a more lightweight anchor for quick use out of the box, then Airhead’s Grapnel is a great option you may want to consider.