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In article ,
says...

I want to install a windlass, but cabling it from my batteries with
large wires is a major job.

I am thinking of placing a dedicated battery up with the windlass and
running smaller wires from the main bank where the charger lives

(Snip)

Though it is done, most responders argue against a dedicated battery near the
windlass. I agree. Buy and run the heavy cable. I used 1/0 red and black
marine grade (tinned) from Cobra. Thirty feet of each at $2.00 a foot in 1999.
You save the weight of a bettery in the bow where you don't want too much
weigfht and while the cable may weigh as much or more, the weignt is
distributed through the boat and is down low. The cable is direct connected to
the starting battery with a 100 amp breaker as close to the battery as
possible and accessible in the cabin. The breaker is in fact the switch. I
also ran three-part wire to an up/down switch in the cockpit in addition to
the foot switches on the deck next to the windlass. The windlass itself is
installed on top of what used to be the lid for the anchor locker with the
motor underneath. Half the lid is still useable and I can stow a lunch hook
and washdown hose in the locker as well as being able to inspect and maintain
the wiring, etc.

Sure beats hauling in 35# of anchor and 250 feet of 5/16" chain.

One thing that greatly surprised me was the wiring attached to the switches
and motor. They are not tinned and some have turned to red dust.