Choose a safe anchoring spot away from channels, rocks, swimmers, and other boats
Check wind, current, depth, and bottom type before anchoring
Select an anchor suitable for the lake bottom
Use enough anchor line for the depth and conditions
Approach the spot slowly into the wind or current
Stop the boat where you want to anchor
Lower the anchor gently to the bottom
Let out the anchor line gradually as the boat drifts back
Pay out enough line to create proper scope
Secure the line to a cleat or anchor point
Reverse gently to set the anchor
Check that the boat is holding position
Adjust the line if the boat drifts
Keep the engine ready until the anchor is secure
Retrieve the anchor slowly when leaving
Clean and stow the anchor and line after use