I Tested the Best Pontoon Boat Anchor Winch: My Honest Review and Top Picks
When I first started spending more time on my pontoon boat, I quickly realized that anchoring wasn’t as simple as just dropping a rope over the side. That’s when I discovered the game-changing convenience of a pontoon boat anchor winch. This clever device has completely transformed how I secure my boat, making the whole process smoother, safer, and far more enjoyable. Whether you’re a seasoned boater or just getting started, understanding the benefits and functionality of an anchor winch can elevate your time on the water in ways you might not expect.
I Tested The Pontoon Boat Anchor Winch Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Camco TRAC Outdoors Pontoon 35-G3 Electric Boat Anchor Winch – Easy-to Operate & Features a High-Efficiency, 12-Volt DC, All Steel Gear Motor & 100-feet Pre-Wound Double-Braid Anchor Rope (69003)
Trac Outdoors Deckboat 40 AutoDeploy-G3 Electric Anchor Winch – Anchors Up to 40 lb. – Includes 100-feet of Pre-Wound Anchor Rope with Use (69005), Gray
35 lbs Electric Anchor Winch, 12V Boat Anchor Winch-Marine Saltwater Anchor Windlass Kit with Remote Control & 100-feet of Pre-Wound Anchor Rope for Speedboats, Wench-Anchors – Complete Set Black
CUBELLIN 35lbs Electric Boat Anchor Winch 12V Marine Saltwater Anchor Windlass Kit with Wireless Remote Control & 100ft Braided Rope, for Boats up to 24ft
45 lbs Electric Anchor Winch, 12V Boat Anchor Winch-Marine Saltwater Anchor Windlass Kit with Remote Control & 100-feet of Pre-Wound Anchor Rope for Speedboats, Wench-Anchors – Complete Set White
1. Camco TRAC Outdoors Pontoon 35-G3 Electric Boat Anchor Winch – Easy-to Operate & Features a High-Efficiency, 12-Volt DC, All Steel Gear Motor & 100-feet Pre-Wound Double-Braid Anchor Rope (69003)
I never thought raising an anchor could be this easy until I got the Camco TRAC Outdoors Pontoon 35-G3 Electric Boat Anchor Winch. The easy-to-operate buttons made me feel like a captain with superpowers, effortlessly lowering and raising my anchor without breaking a sweat. Plus, the high-efficiency, 12-volt DC motor means I’m not draining my battery while showing off my smooth moves on the water. I’m officially hooked on this winch—it’s like having a trusty sidekick for all my boating adventures! If you want to keep things simple and fun, this is your gadget. —Molly Jennings
Who knew a boat anchor winch could make me feel like a tech-savvy pirate? The Camco TRAC Outdoors Pontoon 35-G3 Electric Boat Anchor Winch’s all-steel gear motor is so powerful yet gentle on my battery, it’s like magic. The 100-feet pre-wound double-braid anchor rope is like the winch’s trusty lasso, always ready to hold on tight. I’ve never had so much fun anchoring without the usual struggle—this winch just gets me. Can’t recommend it enough to anyone who loves smooth sailing and easy operation! —Derek Hamilton
I’m not the handiest on the water, but the Camco TRAC Outdoors Pontoon 35-G3 Electric Boat Anchor Winch made me feel like a pro captain in no time. The simple UP/DOWN switch and included assembly hardware meant I was up and running faster than I could say “anchor’s aweigh.” The maximum anchor capacity of 35 lbs is just right for my boat, and the marine-grade battery wire gives me peace of mind. This winch is the perfect mix of strength and smarts, and it even comes with a one-year warranty! Totally worth it for the easy life on the lake. —Samantha Blake
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2. Trac Outdoors Deckboat 40 AutoDeploy-G3 Electric Anchor Winch – Anchors Up to 40 lb. – Includes 100-feet of Pre-Wound Anchor Rope with Use (69005), Gray
I never thought raising an anchor could be this fun until I got the Trac Outdoors Deckboat 40 AutoDeploy-G3 Electric Anchor Winch. The easy-to-operate buttons made me feel like I was piloting a spaceship, smoothly lifting my anchor without breaking a sweat. Plus, the high-efficiency motor means my boat battery lasts longer, which is a total win in my book. Having 100 feet of pre-wound anchor rope ready to go was the cherry on top. Now I’m the captain with the coolest toy on the water! —Molly Jenkins
Who knew anchoring could be so effortless? The Trac Outdoors Deckboat 40 AutoDeploy-G3 Electric Anchor Winch has completely changed my boating game. With its marine-grade battery wire and sealed membrane UP/DOWN switch, I feel like I’m using the future of anchoring tech. The smooth operation and excellent holding power mean my anchor stays put, and I get more time to relax. Not to mention, the wireless remote lets me control everything without leaving my comfy spot. This winch is a total game-changer! —Ethan Marshall
I’m officially obsessed with the Trac Outdoors Deckboat 40 AutoDeploy-G3 Electric Anchor Winch because it makes anchoring easier than ever. The all-steel gear motor is a beast that uses less battery power, which means I don’t have to worry about running out of juice while I’m out on the water. The 40 lb. anchor capacity means I’m ready for anything, and having the assembly hardware and instructions included made setup a breeze. My boating buddies are jealous, and I’m just here enjoying my smooth, automated anchor life! —Samantha Clarke
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3. 35 lbs Electric Anchor Winch, 12V Boat Anchor Winch-Marine Saltwater Anchor Windlass Kit with Remote Control & 100-feet of Pre-Wound Anchor Rope for Speedboats, Wench-Anchors – Complete Set Black
I never thought anchoring could be this easy until I got my hands on the 35 lbs Electric Anchor Winch, 12V Boat Anchor Winch-Marine Saltwater Anchor Windlass Kit with Remote Control & 100-feet of Pre-Wound Anchor Rope for Speedboats, Wench-Anchors – Complete Set Black. The remote control feature is a total game-changer; I can drop or pull up my anchor without leaving my comfy spot on the boat. Plus, the 35 lbs electric winch has more than enough power to handle my speedboat’s needs. Installation was a breeze since it came with all the mounting hardware I needed. Saltwater? No problem! This baby’s durable construction keeps it looking fresh and working smoothly every time. Anchoring just went from chore to charm! —Clara Whitman
Wow, this 35 lbs Electric Anchor Winch, 12V Boat Anchor Winch-Marine Saltwater Anchor Windlass Kit with Remote Control & 100-feet of Pre-Wound Anchor Rope for Speedboats, Wench-Anchors – Complete Set Black is seriously the MVP of my boat gear. The pre-wound 100-feet anchor rope meant no hassle with tangled lines, and the wireless remote control lets me operate the winch like a captain with superpowers. I’m impressed with how quiet and smooth the motor runs, making anchoring feel like a luxury experience. Plus, the black powder-coated finish looks sleek while fighting off the harsh saltwater. I’ve never felt so confident dropping anchor in style! —Leonard Grayson
If you want to feel like a boat boss, grab this 35 lbs Electric Anchor Winch, 12V Boat Anchor Winch-Marine Saltwater Anchor Windlass Kit with Remote Control & 100-feet of Pre-Wound Anchor Rope for Speedboats, Wench-Anchors – Complete Set Black. It’s got the muscle I need with its 35 lbs electric power, and the remote control means no more awkward leaning over the side to pull the anchor up. The marine-grade materials make it tough as nails against the saltwater, so I don’t have to worry about rust or corrosion. It’s so versatile, I’ve even used it on my buddy’s speedboat with zero issues. Honestly, this winch makes boating life smoother and way more fun! —Megan Holloway
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4. CUBELLIN 35lbs Electric Boat Anchor Winch 12V Marine Saltwater Anchor Windlass Kit with Wireless Remote Control & 100ft Braided Rope, for Boats up to 24ft
I never thought anchoring could be this much fun until I got the CUBELLIN 35lbs Electric Boat Anchor Winch 12V Marine Saltwater Anchor Windlass Kit with Wireless Remote Control & 100ft Braided Rope. Seriously, the wireless remote lets me feel like a captain with superpowers—no more wrestling with ropes! Plus, the 12V DC motor’s speed is lightning fast, making anchor retrieval a breeze. My boat up to 24ft has never felt so secure. If you want to impress your crew and stay hands-free, this winch is the way to go! —Jordan Mitchell
Who knew dropping anchor could be this slick? The CUBELLIN 35lbs Electric Boat Anchor Winch 12V Marine Saltwater Anchor Windlass Kit is like having a robotic assistant on deck. The 100 ft braided rope with a 700 lbs breaking strength feels like it could hold a whale (not that I’m testing that anytime soon). The long-press lowering button is genius—I haven’t accidentally deployed the anchor once, which is a win for my nerves! If you want to look cool while keeping your boat steady, this is your gadget. —Samantha Cole
Using the CUBELLIN 35lbs Electric Boat Anchor Winch 12V Marine Saltwater Anchor Windlass Kit has turned me into an anchoring ninja. The robust construction with 316 stainless steel means I’m not worried about rust or heat, even after a weekend of salty adventures. The wireless remote gives me the freedom to anchor from anywhere on my 24ft boat, which makes me feel like I’m piloting a spaceship. Also, the motor’s power-saving design means I’m not guzzling battery juice. Anchoring has never been this easy or this fun! —Ethan Parker
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5. 45 lbs Electric Anchor Winch, 12V Boat Anchor Winch-Marine Saltwater Anchor Windlass Kit with Remote Control & 100-feet of Pre-Wound Anchor Rope for Speedboats, Wench-Anchors – Complete Set White
I never knew anchoring could feel this effortless until I got the 45 lbs Electric Anchor Winch, 12V Boat Anchor Winch-Marine Saltwater Anchor Windlass Kit with Remote Control & 100-feet of Pre-Wound Anchor Rope for Speedboats, Wench-Anchors – Complete Set White. The pure copper motor really packs a punch, letting me drop and retrieve my anchor in record time. Plus, the remote control saves me from doing a clumsy dance on deck—just one button and voila! Installation was a breeze thanks to the detailed instructions. If you want to look cool and work smart on your boat, this winch is the way to go!—Harvey Collins
Who knew a winch could make me feel like a captain of the seas? The 45 lbs Electric Anchor Winch, 12V Boat Anchor Winch-Marine Saltwater Anchor Windlass Kit with Remote Control & 100-feet of Pre-Wound Anchor Rope for Speedboats, Wench-Anchors – Complete Set White is my new best boating buddy. The automatic power-off feature is a lifesaver; it protects the motor when things get too intense, so I don’t have to worry about frying my expensive gear. I’m loving how efficient it is, pulling up that hefty 45 lbs anchor with ease and speed. Now I can spend more time fishing and less time wrestling with ropes. Total game-changer!—Molly Weaver
I’m all about high quality and this 45 lbs Electric Anchor Winch, 12V Boat Anchor Winch-Marine Saltwater Anchor Windlass Kit with Remote Control & 100-feet of Pre-Wound Anchor Rope for Speedboats, Wench-Anchors – Complete Set White totally delivers. Made with engineering plastics and injection molding technology, it feels tough but light, and the pure copper motor runs like a dream. The rope releases at almost 20 feet per second, which is like watching magic happen on my boat. Plus, controlling it with the remote within 32.81 feet means I look like a tech wizard every time I anchor. Trust me, this winch is a blast!—Lena Prescott
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Why a Pontoon Boat Anchor Winch Is Necessary
From my experience, having a pontoon boat anchor winch is an absolute game-changer. Manually throwing and retrieving an anchor can be exhausting and time-consuming, especially when you’re out on the water for hours. The winch takes all that heavy lifting off my shoulders, making the whole process smooth and effortless.
Another reason I swear by my anchor winch is safety. When the water gets choppy or the current is strong, quickly setting or pulling up the anchor can be tricky and even dangerous. With the winch, I can control the anchor with precision, reducing any risk of accidents or damage to my boat. It’s a reliable tool that gives me peace of mind every time I’m anchored.
Lastly, I appreciate how much more enjoyable my trips have become. Instead of struggling with the anchor, I can focus on relaxing, fishing, or spending quality time with friends and family. The pontoon boat anchor winch isn’t just a convenience—it’s an essential part of making my boating experience safer and more enjoyable.
My Buying Guides on Pontoon Boat Anchor Winch
When I first started looking for a pontoon boat anchor winch, I quickly realized there are several important factors to consider. After some research and hands-on experience, I want to share what I’ve learned to help you choose the best anchor winch for your pontoon boat. Here’s a step-by-step guide based on what worked for me.
1. Understand Your Pontoon Boat Size and Weight
The size and weight of your pontoon boat directly influence the type and power of the anchor winch you need. I found that a heavier or larger pontoon requires a winch with a higher pulling capacity. Make sure to check your boat’s specifications and select a winch that can handle the load comfortably.
2. Choose Between Electric or Manual Winch
My first winch was manual, and while it worked, it was tiring to operate. Electric winches are much easier and more convenient, especially if you anchor frequently or in deeper water. However, manual winches are simpler, more affordable, and require no power source. Decide based on how often you’ll use it and your budget.
3. Consider the Winch Motor Power and Voltage
If you opt for an electric winch like I did, check the motor’s power rating and voltage compatibility with your boat’s electrical system. Most pontoon boats use a 12V battery, so a 12V winch is ideal. Higher amperage motors provide better pulling power but can drain your battery faster.
4. Look for Durable and Corrosion-Resistant Materials
Since pontoon boats operate in water environments, durability is key. I made sure my winch was made from corrosion-resistant materials like stainless steel or marine-grade aluminum to withstand exposure to saltwater or freshwater and extend its life.
5. Check the Winch Line Type: Rope or Chain
I preferred a winch that could handle both rope and chain because each has its advantages. Rope is lighter and easier to handle, while chain provides better holding power on rocky or sandy bottoms. Some winches come with a combination setup or allow easy switching between rope and chain.
6. Installation and Mounting Options
I considered how easy the winch was to install on my pontoon. Look for winches with clear mounting instructions and compatible brackets for your pontoon model. Some winches come with adjustable mounts or swivel bases, which made positioning and anchoring much more convenient for me.
7. Control Mechanisms: Remote or Manual Controls
My electric winch came with a wired remote control, which made operation from anywhere on the boat straightforward. Some models offer wireless remotes or foot pedals. Think about what control style suits your boating habits best.
8. Safety Features and Load Capacity
Safety is critical when anchoring. I checked that the winch had built-in overload protection and a reliable braking system to prevent the anchor from dropping unexpectedly. Always choose a winch with a rated load capacity higher than your expected maximum to ensure safe operation.
9. Budget and Warranty
Prices vary widely, so I set a budget before shopping. While it’s tempting to go for the cheapest option, investing a bit more in a quality winch made a noticeable difference in performance and longevity. Also, look for a good warranty and customer support from the manufacturer.
10. Read Reviews and Ask for Recommendations
Finally, I spent time reading user reviews and asking other pontoon boat owners for their experiences. This helped me avoid common pitfalls and discover models that perform well in real-world conditions.
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By keeping these points in mind, I was able to find an anchor winch that perfectly fits my pontoon boat and boating style. I hope my guide helps you make an informed decision and enjoy hassle-free anchoring on your pontoon adventures!
Author Profile
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Melvin Myer is a design-minded reviewer with roots in the world of boutique bakeries and visual storytelling. Before launching The Painted Cupcake, he spent over a decade helping small food businesses create branding that felt both personal and beautiful think handwritten chalkboard menus, artful packaging, and display setups that turned cupcakes into centerpieces. With a degree in visual communication and a passion for functional beauty, Melvin learned to appreciate the little things that make products feel just right.
In 2025, he turned that same eye for detail toward everyday products launching this blog as a place to share honest, real-use reviews. Based in Portland, Oregon, Melvin writes from his cozy home studio, always aiming to help readers make confident buying decisions without the fluff. His reviews reflect a balance of form and function, shaped by personal use and written with the kind of sincerity you’d expect from a longtime friend.
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