Bryan wrote:

I might try the 2 off the bow next time I overnight at Isla Coronado. I
don't need to; it's an uncrowded anchorage with plenty of swing room and no
current or wind shift concerns. However, it is a 30 foot depth so I am
maxed out on scope. Maybe I'll sleep better with 2 anchors down.

I was about to say that 300 feet was a lot of chain to put down for 30
feet unless you're very exposed. But I thought I'd look at a chart
first - that certainly looks like like its totally exposed with a ten
mile fetch to the mainland. This would be considered a pretty
marginal anchorage here in New England. We have a few such
destinations, Mohegan, Isle of Shoals, etc., but for the most part,
its easy to find good protection. Of course, the really nice places
closer to Boston are saturated with moorings.

Still, if you're not happy carrying 300 feet of chain, I would suggest
that you could get by with 50 feet of chain and 300 feet of nylon.
The holding power will be just about the same, and in fact you'll be
better able to feel when the hook is set firmly. If you like the
extra weight of chain, you can strap some diver's weights on the rode
and slide them down about 40 feet.

BTW, what kind of anchor do you use, and do you have a windlass?