4 Best Boat Anchor Pulley System Options for Every Setup (2026)
Compare the best boat anchor pulley system options for raising and lowering anchors on small boats. See key features, pros, cons and what to check before you bu
By Lauren Holland
Updated November 14, 2026
By Lauren HollandUpdated November 2026
Choosing a boat anchor pulley system comes down to four things: the anchor weight it can handle, the rope diameter it accepts, how it mounts to your hull, and whether it can be operated by one person. This list compares four options with those criteria in mind, from simple lift kits for small craft to a clamp-style trolley for kayaks and canoes.
Our top picks at a glance
- 1TOP CHOICEBest overallAttwood 13700-7 Lift 'N Lock Anchor Lift SystemView on Amazon
- 2
Best for heavier anchorsHazztoll Anchor Lift System, 35 lbs Capacity to Raise Boat AnchorsView on Amazon - 3
Best for canoesBroCraft Canoe Anchor Lock SystemView on Amazon - 4
Best for kayaks and light craftKayak Anchor Trolley Kit Anchor Wizard LeverLockView on Amazon
Our Top Picks
| Product | Best for | Key feature |
|---|---|---|
| Attwood 13700-7 Lift ‘N Lock Anchor Lift System | Small boats with anchors up to 20 lb | Nylon pulleys, zinc-plated steel |
| Hazztoll Anchor Lift System, 35 lbs Capacity | Heavier anchors and manual hoisting | Hand crank, rustproof steel |
| BroCraft Canoe Anchor Lock System | Canoes and small open boats | Aluminum clamp mount |
| Kayak Anchor Trolley Kit Anchor Wizard LeverLock | Kayaks and light craft | Lever lock, 30 ft paracord |
Attwood 13700-7 Lift ‘N Lock Anchor Lift System
Attwood 13700-7 Lift 'N Lock Anchor Lift System, Zinc-Plated Steel, 20 lb | Zinc-plated steel anchor lift with nylon pulleys for anchors up to 20 lb and 1/4 to 7/16 in rope.
Best for: Small boats with anchors up to 20 lb
This suits owners of small powerboats and runabouts who want a fixed, straightforward lift for a light anchor. The manufacturer specifies use with 1/4 to 7/16 in rope.
Pros
- Zinc-plated steel construction
- Nylon pulleys reduce rope wear
Cons
- Limited to anchors up to 20 lb
Hazztoll Anchor Lift System, 35 lbs Capacity to Raise Boat Anchors
Hazztoll Anchor Lift System, 35 lbs Capacity to Raise Boat Anchors | Thickened Steel Manual Hand Crank, Rustproof, Smooth Axle Rotation, Secure Lock, Anchor Lift Kit for Small Boats Kayaks
Best for: Heavier anchors and manual hoisting
This fits anglers and small-boat owners who carry a heavier anchor and want a hand-cranked lift rather than hauling rope by hand.
Pros
- 35 lb rated capacity per the listing
- Manual crank with a secure lock
Cons
- Crank operation is slower than a direct pull
BroCraft Canoe Anchor Lock System
BroCraft Canoe Anchor Lock system/Anchor system with aluminum clamp
Best for: Canoes and small open boats
This works for paddlers and small open-boat users who want to attach an anchor system without drilling into the hull, using an aluminum clamp mount.
Pros
- Clamp mount avoids permanent hull modification
- Simple, lightweight design
Cons
- Clamp fit depends on gunwale thickness
Kayak Anchor Trolley Kit Anchor Wizard LeverLock
Kayak Anchor Trolley Kit Anchor Wizard Kayak LeverLock Anchor Trolley,Anchor System for Kayak Canoes Boat etc,Rope Cleat carabiner Pulley Anchor Ring Pad Eyes 30 Feet paracord,With Bolts Screws Rivets
Best for: Kayaks and light craft
This is aimed at kayakers and owners of light craft who want a trolley-style system with a lever lock and enough line to set a light anchor in shallow water.
Pros
- Includes 30 ft of paracord and mounting hardware
- Lever lock for quick release
Cons
- Best suited to very light anchors and small craft
Buying Guide
Anchor weight rating
Check the rated capacity before anything else, and compare it with your anchor’s actual weight. Manufacturers specify maximum loads, and exceeding them can strain pulleys and mounts.
Rope diameter compatibility
Match the pulley groove to your line. Many listings specify a range such as 1/4 to 7/16 in, and a mismatch causes slipping or jamming.
Mounting method
Decide between through-hull bolts and clamp mounts. Clamps suit gunwales of a certain thickness, while bolted systems need backing plates and sealant.
Operation style
Manual pulleys work well for light loads, while crank systems help with heavier anchors. Consider who will handle the line.
Good picks for this: Attwood 13700-7 Lift ‘N Lock Anchor Lift System and Hazztoll Anchor Lift System
FAQ
Can I use a boat anchor pulley system on a kayak?
Yes, but only with light anchors. Trolley-style kits designed for kayaks are the better fit for small craft.
What rope size should I use?
Follow the manufacturer’s stated range for the pulley. Many systems list 1/4 to 7/16 in line.
Do I need to drill into my boat to install one?
Not always. Clamp-mount systems avoid drilling, while bolted lift kits require mounting holes and sealant.
Conclusion
For most small powerboats, the Attwood 13700-7 Lift ‘N Lock suits a light anchor well. Owners with heavier anchors should look at the Hazztoll crank model, while canoe and kayak owners will do better with the clamp or trolley options.
Sources
- Boating safety guidance on anchoring and equipment (uscgboating.org)
- Information on safe water recreation and boat equipment (nps.gov)
Related reading
- Drift Boat Pulley Anchor System: 3 Best Picks Compared (2026)
- Top 5 Drift Boat Anchor Pulleys for Every Setup in 2026
- Shallow Water Boat Anchor Systems: How to Set One Up Safely (7 Steps)
- River Boat Anchor System: How to Choose, Rig and Use One Safely
About Lauren Holland
Lauren Holland is part of our editorial team and reviews and edits our houseboating guides, checking product details against manufacturer specifications and owner feedback.
About the author
Lauren Holland writes reviews and buying guides for Discover Houseboating.