Automated Anchoring

On an all chain, automated anchoring system a chain counter and/or measurement markings are recommended.
When paying out chain it is important that the vessel is reversing very slowly.
Do not overestimate the amount of chain you have let out, 3 times the depth of water is a minimum. If staying over night (or during tidal movement) allow for enough chain for the rise and fall of the tide.
Once the correct amount of chain is out continue to reverse slowly. The anchor will set in and stop the backward motion of the boat. Once this happens increase the engine revs to help set the anchor properly.
When retrieving the anchor, motor ahead slowly (taking the retrieval weight off the winch). Once the chain becomes taught and the winch loads up heavily stop. Give the anchor a few moments to pull partly free from the ground (the anchor can be buried very deep). Before continuing to retrieve the ground tackle.

If an anchor is caught in rocks or other hidden debris, special care is required to retrieve the anchor. As most large rocks don't "give" very easily. Brains over brawn will usually win over and minimize the risk of damage to the anchor, chain and fairlead setup. If your anchor is caught and it will not come free from the ground follow these steps:

1. Re-release some chain so you have loosened the hold on the anchor

2. Motor over the top of the submerged anchor slowly.

3. Try re-applying lifting force from the opposite direction from where the boat was lying originally. In most cases you will be able to retrieve an anchor by pulling it from behind the way it is lying.

Drastic measures may be employed if there are no other options available. Using the momentum of the boat by getting a 'run-up' or using the buoyancy of the boat with an incoming tide or swell to pull the anchor free.
Be warned - in a well embedded position your anchor will cause serious damage to other items if these techniques are used.
There is no substitute for weight when considering an anchor. An integral part of the anchoring system is the chain weight also. By substituting chain size/weight you are directly minimizing the anchors effectiveness. All anchors, regardless of type, require a proportionate amount of chain. It is the chain which minimizes a boat's swing while at anchor.