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The 7 Best Electric Boat Anchor Winches for 2024

Minn Kota Anchor Winch

Trac Outdoors Pontoon 35 Electric Anchor Winch

Pactrade Marine 35 Electric Motor Winch

Not every boater thinks of getting an electric anchor winch at first. If you are serious about boating, it really is a must have item. Whether you like to fish on your bass boat or just relax at sea, a winch can be a lifesaver. Manual hauling of your anchor is something any boater gets sick of really fast.

Choosing the best electric anchor winch involves a few factors. You need to make sure it will work for your size boat and anchor. It’s also important to choose a saltwater winch if you’re at sea rather than inland. The last thing you want is a freshwater winch in the ocean. Let’s take a look at some of the best electric anchor winches on the market. These should be more than adequate for any kind of boat you may have.

The Minn Kota Pontoon Deckhand is hands down one of the best electric anchor winches. This winch is rated for a 40lb anchor. That means you want to scale back to at least 35lbs. Lower is fine as well. Remember, the reason for this is to ensure your winch lasts as long as it can. Pushing a winch to capacity, like with a 40lb anchor, is going to cause it to burn out too soon. Always go at least 5 or 10lbs less than recommended.

The winch comes pre-spooled with 100 feet of rope. That’s pretty standard in the industry. In this case it’s an 800lb test nylon rope. That should be able to stand up to whatever you need. Remember the rule for depth is 3:1. If you fish deeper waters, you’ll need more rope.

The universal davit can stay with the winch or be mounted further away. It allows you to store the anchor horizontally. Other features include a quick release, a remote control and a quick connect plug. Take note that this is not a cordless remote, instead it’s a corder remote. A corded remote is bad for a TV but not terrible for a winch. It’s much harder to lose a corded remote, afterall. The cord is 25 feet long, in case you were wondering. That means you still have freedom of movement on deck.

There is an anti-drag system which is extremely helpful as well. It senses when the anchor hits bottom. This means you’ll endure less drifting.

Installation is fairly easy with this winch. Give yourself an hour and you should be hand. It’s extremely versatile in the ways you can mount it, which is great. It can find a place to fit in nearly all boat shapes and sizes.

Minn Kota offers a two year warranty. That puts it ahead of a number of other brands. It’s worth noting that the battery cable is actually pretty short. This can affect where you plan to install it unless you get additional wiring.

• Buy on Amazon   →
• Buy on Bass Pro   →
• Buy on Walmart   →

The Trac Outdoors 35 is ideal for pontoon boats . It can work with any boat up to a 35lb anchor, though. You’ll see throughout our reviews we always tweak those numbers. If it says 35lbs, we recommend 30 lbs or less. The reason is that an electric winch should never have to run at full capacity. The strain on the motor will cause it to wear out far too soon. Always go at least 5lbs lower with your anchor weight.

This winch comes spool with 100 feet of 800lb test rope. It’s 3/16-inch braided anchor rope so expect it to have some durability. The gears are all steel and can be expected to last. The motor is 12-volt and won’t cause havoc with your boat’s battery. We always recommend the use of extra solar panels if you are worried about battery drain. Solar panels are easy to install and can provide a real boost to your boat’s energy levels.

The anchor roller can be integrated with the winch or used separately. It all depends on the size of your boat and how you install it. That versatility makes it ideal for many boat shapes and sizes.

Installation is easy with the included instructions. Expect to spend about 30 minutes or so getting it done. There are handy videos on YouTube which can walk you through the process if need be. All the hardware you need is included.

The wiring is all marine grade. That means it will resist corrosion. There is a sealed membrane to hold out water and keep the inner workings alive and kicking. The winch can drop anchor at 70 feet per minute. It reels it back in again at 65 feet per minute. The entire unit is compact which makes it ideal for smaller boats.

Trac offers a one-year warranty on the winch to give you peace of mind. If you see a trac anchor winch review that mentions two years, check the date on it. That may have been true back in the day, but not right now.

With the price and the features available, this is our pick for the best overall winch. It has everything you need and is reliable. It doesn’t have a wireless remote control, but that’s really a premium feature, we think. If you need a versatile and high quality electric winch, look here.

Pactrade ranks in with a solid entry. The Marine 35 is their freshwater electric winch. You definitely don’t want to put this in saltwater. It will get corroded very fast. It will also void the warranty, so keep that in mind.

The 12-V motor is low amp and draws little power. As with any electrical components, if you’re worried, try adding solar panels to offset the draw. The wiring is marine type 14-gauge. That means it’s going to be pretty reliable. The winch works best with mushroom and river anchors.

As the name implies, this is rated for a 35lb anchor. We recommend 30lb or even 25 for maximum benefit. The braided rope is 100 feet and has an 700lb break strength. Some sites that sell these say it’s 800lbs. Pactrade’s own info says 700lb, so trust them. Many other ropes will get to 800lbs. If you’re used to 800lb strength, be extra cautious here. It may not stand up to some of the abuse you’re used to.

The switch is part of the winch cover and offers power up and down. The anti-reverse internal clutch will stop that spooling problem.

For the price, you’re not likely to find a winch this reliable. It doesn’t include a remote control, however. As we said, the rope may be a little underpowered as well. But it’s also very easy to upgrade if need be.The foundation is solid and very affordable.

Pactrade offers a one-year warranty on the winch. The kit comes with everything needed for installation as well. You may want to check out some videos on YouTube if you’re not familiar with the wiring you’ll need to do.

Pactrade Marine Pontoon Salt Water Electric Winch

Pactrade’s saltwater electric winch for pontoon boats is reliable and affordable. The 12-V, 150 watt motor is powerful but energy efficient. It’s not going to drain your battery dry by any means. And if you’re worried, using an extra solar panel to offset the draw is always an option. With the power available, the winch pulls a respectable 3800 revolutions per minute.

The cover is UV protected to handle long days in the sun better than most. The 10-gauge wire is tin plated. That helps resist corrosion out on the sea. The case is sealed to keep the sea water out as well.All hardware is stainless steel.

In terms of features, one nice touch Pactrade included is the safety cable. That can secure your anchor when not in use. The anti-reverse internal clutch won’t allow your rope to get tangled as you reel it in.

This is rated to handle a 20lb anchor. That’s definitely on the low end of the spectrum. The bow roller is also a little short for this winch. That means it’s definitely better suited to a smaller boat. If you have a larger boat, try one of our other suggestions. However, for a smaller saltwater vessel, this is ideal.

Power 4S 12V Anchor Winch

If you’re looking for a saltwater winch, the Power 4s may work well. Perfect for a pontoon boat with a 30lb anchor. It comes pre-spooled with 100 feet of rope and a remote control for easy operation. As with all of our recommendations, you may want to tweak the weight capacity here. This is rated for a 30lb anchor. We recommend dropping to 25lb or even 20 if possible. It’s never a good idea to push a winch to its limits. This is not a requirement, just a suggestion. It can help eliminate the potential for accidents or breaks.

There is a sealed membrane switch and 10-gauge tin plated battery wire. This is all to reduce corrosion and shock risk. As a saltwater anchor winch, it needs that extra protection. Power up and down is available and also a freefall mode for the anchor. The mounting equipment includes clips to hold the remote control in place as well. There is no fuse to install and it comes with a circuit breaker.

The Power 4S has a seperate anchor davit. The roller can be positioned close to the winch or moved away. It’s easy to adjust based on which position works best. The kit includes 100´×0.20″(30.5m×5mm) braided anchor rope. When installed, it offers a 70 ft(21.3m) per minute no-load rope retrieval speed. It’s strong and sturdy and should handle your needs well.

There is a one-year warranty that is included with the winch as well. It may not be the best in the industry in terms of time. Still, compared to a winch that offers no warranty at all, it’s a superior choice.

Saltwater winches can get pricey. In fact, our next winch is nearly double the price of this one. But if you need one that doesn’t require a huge weight capacity, this is a solid option.

$382.00 Amazon  →

Prosport 550 Windlass

The Pro Sport 550 Gypsy Windlass is a serious piece of machinery. This is rated for 550 lbs. That’s the boat working with the anchor, of course. You wouldn’t have a 550lb anchor. That said, this is rated to handle boats up to 28 feet. Pay heed to this. Amazon lists it at 40 feet. Lewmar’s own product details recommend 28 feet. It can handle a heavy anchor though, and it is fast. Not dangerously so, but faster than other models we have listed.

This is one of the models that does not come with a rope already spooled. We included it because it is a powerful winch. If you have a larger boat, this may be the best electric anchor winch for you.

Like the other winches it has a low power draw. It doesn’t use a remote control but the kit for installation includes the mounting hardware you need. You’ll find the mounting gasket, circuit breaker, toggle, and studs. Installation is totally DIY. It may seem daunting but you can probably get it done in 30 to 40 minutes. Follow the included installation instructions and you should be fine.

The windlass features a manual freefall and dual direction power. It has an above-deck installation. It uses small, permanent magnet motors for reliable power. The center case is made from aluminum while the side covers are composite. That means it’s saltwater ready. It can stand up to the corrosion others can’t. Keep in mind you still want to keep it clean and dry whenever possible.

Lewmar offers a three year warranty on this windlass. That’s a definite bonus to offer peace of mind if you’re concerned. If you want maximum anchor capacity this may be the best electric winch for you.

$790.08 Amazon  →

Picking the Best Electric Boat Anchor Winches

There are two main types of electric boat anchor winches. It should come as no surprise you can get an electric boat anchor winch for saltwater or freshwater. You never want to use a freshwater boat anchor winch in saltwater. If it has not been designed for saltwater, it’s a recipe for disaster.

A saltwater electric winch will be designed to resist corrosion. This is very important. A freshwater electric winch is designed for use in lakes and rivers. These are often cheaper than saltwater winches.

In addition to the water it’s used in, your winch can have different orientations. That means the anchor winch can be set up to operate horizontally or vertically.

Horizontal Electric Boat Winch: These are typically used on smaller boats. If you don’t have the space for a vertical winch, this may work for you. It can handle more than one anchor as well. The downside of a horizontal winch is that it is more prone to slipping. They can cost more to fix if something goes wrong, also.

Vertical Electric Boat Winch: These are more common on most boats. Set up of this kind of winch is often fairly straightforward. They jump less than a horizontally mounted winch will as well. Since maintenance of these is easier, most boaters prefer them.

You need a high quality winch if you want it to last. Some cheaper brands will use plastic components. You can find reviews all over Amazon complaining of these types of winches. They might only last for three or four uses. After that an important gear or pin breaks because it was poorly manufactured. The entire winch is useless at that point.

Ideally you want a completely sealed case. This will protect the circuits and electronic components from moisture and corrosion. The gears should be steel to maintain strength and reliability. Wiring should be tin which can stand up to corrosion long term as well.

The motor for your electric anchor winch is no good if it draws too much power. It’s also not going to be helpful if it’s not powerful enough to do the job.

12 volt motors are standard for most electric winches. These offer suitable power and don’t drain power needlessly. Make sure your anchor matches up with in terms of size with the capacity of the motor. If you try to haul in a larger anchor than the motor can handle, it will burn out quickly.

A marine solar panel is a good idea if you’re concerned about power. Installing one of these can further minimize any power used by your motor. Typically these don’t draw a ton of energy. If you factor in everything running on your boat’s battery, it never hurts to have a buffer. We recommend solar panels for any boat.

The motor needs to be sealed well, especially if you boat in saltwater. The motor will be one of the first things to fail in saltwater if it’s not well made. The corrosion sets in faster than you might think. It can be a real hassle to deal with.

Buying a winch with pre-spooled rope is easy and convenient. If you need to replace rope make sure you look up the kind you need and how to do it. It’s possible to buy a winch that does not come with rope and spool it yourself. We don’t recommend this because why bother? The companies that manufacture winches have already done the work for you. You can count on it being the right length and strength for the job. No need to make more work for yourself if you don’t have to, in our opinion.

When you do need to buy your own rope the standard rule of thumb is 3:1. You need a rope that is three times as long as the water you are in. This ensures you can safely anchor your boat. In general, most electric boat winches come with 100 feet of rope.

Look for an anti-reverse clutch system. This is important to prevent tangles and jams. If you don’t have a system in place, the rope can spool and get tied up.

You probably want to go with a braided anchor rope. Braided rope made from nylon is strong and resists abrasion. Polyester rope is also a popular choice. Whatever kind of rope you get, make sure it’s rated for use in an anchor winch. It needs to be able to handle being wet regularly without getting damaged.

You need to consider what your rope has to endure even when sitting still. If the current starts pushing your boat, the rope is the only thing keeping you steady. It will bear the weight of the entire vessel. Now imagine it’s underwater scraping against a rock or some coral at the same time. Strong rope has to not just pull up a 30 lb anchor. It also has to keep several hundred pounds of boat from floating away by not breaking.

Most rope is rated for about 800lbs. Some clock in at 700 lbs. Be wary of what you buy and what you need it to do.

Obviously one of the big drawbacks to an electric boat winch is cost. Lugging a rope in by hand costs you nothing in terms of dollars. Some electric anchor winches can cost over $500 depending on their size.

Many good quality anchor winches can be picked up for under $200. The cost can still seem steep, over time the value will become apparent. These are great tools to have. They are definitely worth the investment for serious boaters.

Some anchor winches can be picked up for $100 or even less. You should always exercise caution if you see anything this cheap. The expression “you get what you pay for” does apply here. If it’s too cheap, be very cautious. Do your homework and check reviews from multiple sources. If you can’t find reviews at all, that’s a red flag. More often than not you’ll see most reviews are not very high for such an anchor.

If you are looking to save money but still get quality, you have options. Used anchor winches are usually available on sites like craigslist. You may also have luck at your local marina. Make sure you test it out before buying, however.

We recommend all the models we have posted above as being reliably and fairly cost effective. Obviously the ProSport Windlass is a standout in terms of cost. That said, it is recommended for heavier vessels.

Along with cost comes warranties. It’s always good to look into the warranty that is offered with any winch. Because this is a big purchase and affects the overall function of your boat, it’s important. Most companies offer a standard one or two year warranty on their products. Make sure you understand the warranty fully before you commit. Certain things can affect the warranty or even void it outright.

Installation

Modern electric anchor winches are usually not too hard to install. That said, if you buy one from a company overseas it may not come with instructions. That can make it difficult to figure out. When researching the winch you want to buy, check out YouTube ahead of time. See if there are any videos that walk you through the installation process. You may be surprised to see that there are many models featured with step by step walk throughs. This can offer you peace of mind when it comes to getting it installed correctly. Most people have never installed an electric anchor winch before. Don’t feel bad if you’re unsure of the process and need a hand.

Operating Your Electric Boat Anchor Winch

When it comes to operations, there are two standard methods. Remember, a manual winch used to be the only way. That involved a lot of hand cranking and a lot of effort. Electric anchor winches save a lot of time and effort.

Remote Control Anchor Winches: As the name suggests, you can use a remote control to operate these. Just like the TV, you can get it going from anywhere on the boat. This is convenient if you’re busy at the other end of the boat and don’t need to walk all the way to the winch.

Switch Controlled Anchor Winches: These are ones you have to control directly. The switch is hard-wired to the winch. Usually it’s located right next to the winch. Sometimes you can have these hardwired to the control console as well.

Regardless of how a winch is operated, speed is typically static. That means you can’t usually make your anchor winch speed up or slow down. This is a safety precaution more than anything. You don’t want a winch that can pull up an anchor too fast. Usually a winch will drop anchor much faster than it pulls one in, however.

Things to Watch Out for with a Boat Anchor Winch

Make sure you pay attention to the weight capacity. In general, an electric anchor winch will have a capacity between 20lbs and 40lbs. For most boats this is more than sufficient. It’s in your best interests to be cautious here. Just because the winch capacity is 35lbs doesn’t mean a 35lb anchor is ideal. There can be circumstances in which extra stress is put on the winch. In those cases, a 35lb anchor could become problematic. We recommend overshooting your anchor slightly. Use a 40lb winch for a 35lb anchor. A 35lb winch for a 30lb anchor and so on. This is just a safety precaution. You don’t have to do it by any means. It’s also possible your winch will work just fine at capacity. But for added caution, consider tweaking your numbers slightly.

You may think you need a larger winch. This is only true if you have a larger boat. These electrical anchor winches are specifically made for small to medium boats. The kind that could reasonably be used without an anchor winch. Larger boats should already have anchor winches as part of the overall boat design. A 65 foot yacht would not need any of the winches we’ve listed here. It should already be well equipped with a high quality anchor winch of its own.

For these smaller boats, larger capacity winches are rarely necessary. Your anchor is likely not that large so it doesn’t make sense to worry about a larger winch.

A homemade boat anchor winch is something you may see on the water now and then. These are typically manual and not electric. Sometimes they’re rigged from automobile winches. There’s nothing to say this won’t work but do be cautious. If you’re not a handy type person, we don’t recommend risking it. The risk of a jam or break can definitely increase with this.

Watch out for a noisy winch. Ideally this should not make a ton of noise as it rolls in and out. Some are definitely noisier than others, though. If your winch starts making new noises it’s a good sign something is wrong. The winch itself needs to be well lubricated in order to avoid this. If you hear grinding or squealing you definitely have a problem.

A good davit can go a long way to preventing excess noise. The davit is the part that reels the rope in and keeps it straight and smooth as it winds. Without it, the rope can spool. That can cause the entire winch to start making noises as it will be off balanced.

Manual vs Electric Winch

Using an electric winch instead of a manual winch obviously saves time and effort. You’re free to do other things while the winch does the work for you. In addition, your arms and back will likely thank you. Yanking up a rope by hand can be hard for several reasons. The weight can make it a struggle. The friction may also cause serious damage to your hands. You may also end up with a pretty dirty rope. That can cause a mess on you when you pull it in. For those reasons, an electric anchor winch is really the best option out there.

Electric winches also make your boat safer. If you’re spooling rope by hand, it’s going to end up on the deck. This presents a tripping hazard until it is stowed safely. The winch handles that work for you. It’s both a time saver and a space saver in that regard.

The Bottom Line

An electric boat anchor winch is a real time saver on any boat. It gets the dirty work done for you so you can focus on other things. It’s a cool gadget too, and there’s nothing wrong with liking more boat gadgets. Make sure you’re focusing on the right kind of winch for your boat. Never use a freshwater winch in saltwater. Make sure you get it installed correctly and you have the right amount of rope to do the job.

My grandfather first took me fishing when I was too young to actually hold up a rod on my own. As an avid camper, hiker, and nature enthusiast I'm always looking for a new adventure.

Categories : Boats

Ed Wise on December 8, 2021

Are there any electric anchor that have a 200 foot rope or more. I am fishing in fresh water 80 to 100 feet on Lake Simcoe, Canada

RobertHan on February 24, 2022

I installed the MinnKota Deckhand 40 on my Tracker ProGuide V175 with remote switch and 30lb anchor. This gives me an extra option over the position (anchor) lock I have with my trolling motor and a ProNav setup. The ProNav is great but if you really want to hold a position in wind and waves you need a real anchor.

Mark G. on September 5, 2022

Hey Robert, I found your review very helpful. I too have a Tracker 175. The boat came with a trolling motor on the front. I’m concerned about putting too much stufff on the front of the boat. Could you send me a picture of how you mounted your anchor winch? It would be greatly appreciated. Thank you for the post.

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Yachting World

• Digital Edition

iWinch test: new electric winch handle option

• Bruce Jacobs
• February 11, 2022

The iWinch is a borderline-genuis idea, which allows anyone with a drill to have an electric winch handle on their boat. Bruce Jacobs, tests it out

Sometimes, a solution to a problem comes along that is so obvious, you wonder why it hasn’t been there for years. In my opinion the iWinch, an electric winch handle fitting for a drill, is a case in point.

Some tasks on a yacht are just hard work: getting that halyard up, sheeting in a headsail, tightening the reefing pennant – all big, heavy jobs and none of us are getting younger.

You’ll always get the traditionalists who say electric winches are unnecessary or dangerous as you can’t feel any blockage or snagging. The truth is though, that sometimes having some powered assistance is very useful, especially when you’re sailing short-handed .

If you’ve ever thought about getting electric winches as a solution, you may well have stopped short when you’ve seen the £3,000 price tag (for a common 44 size) – and then there’s the space they need under the deck and the power drain on the batteries. Space and cost are show stoppers for many.

Previously, we’ve looked at the so-called powered winch handles. The WinchRite is probably the most well known, and it is definitely an effective tool; likewise for the Ewincher .

What stopped us using either on an ongoing basis was firstly their size (where do you store them?) and secondly their cost. The WinchRite costs over £600 and the Ewincher close to an eye watering £2,000. Great ideas both of them, but ultimately not something we could justify.

Which brings us to this neat idea. We’re a bit late to the party on the iWinch, but we love it. It’s basically just a winch socket and drill bit combined. It fits into a standard drill, though you do want one with around 90-100Nm of torque, and it will need a 13mm chuck, so do check this. Otherwise that’s it. You have a powered winch handle that’s highly effective, but only costs £55.

We have given the iWinch quite a beasting over the summer, using it on our heavy 60ft expedition yachts where the loads are much greater than you’d expect on a standard 40ft cruising yacht. Every skipper, without exception, loved the iWinch for its utility and practicality, even if it wasn’t seen necessarily as being an everyday piece of kit.

Your drill may not have the full 110Nm torque of the WinchRite or Ewincher, but so long as it has around 100Nm this is such a useful, cheap solution to a problem that you really can’t go wrong with it (other than dropping your drill overboard or risk it getting salted up!).

Highly recommended.

Buy the iWinch now from Force 4

Note: We may earn a commission when you buy through links on our site, at no extra cost to you. This doesn’t affect our editorial independence.

Other electric winch handles.

The Ewincher is a sophisticated product that can actually be used as a manual winch handle as well as an electric motor. It has a variable speed reversible motor and generates a useful 80Nm of torque.

We tested it in the Norwegian Sea, en route from the Faroes to Arctic Norway, just as the winds hit gale force. The crew were feeling a bit breathless after swapping out our yankee 2 for the yankee 3, the yacht was screaming along and I was feeling guilty about asking them to trim the sails yet again.

I brought out the big yellow handle to general looks of astonishment and amusement, but this died down as I effortlessly trimmed in our headsail and the double-reefed main while drinking my tea. Suddenly there was a host of crew trying to grab the handle for their go and I had my first inkling that this could be a big success.

I did worry we might drop it overboard or that it would run out of battery now my crew had become lazy, but neither happened.

After two hours of hard sailing and trimming, it still had plenty of power, and these were big sails in strong winds. When the warning light did finally come on it took only seconds to swap batteries and we were off and running again.

Price £1,900

Buy the Ewincher from Marine Chandlery

Rachael agreed to try out the WinchRite on the Ocean Crossing Masterclass she was running from Spain to Madeira. This was a crew full of aspiring Yachtmaster Oceans and a serious test for any piece of kit.

Again, it was tactically deployed as the winds reached Force 6 and the loads all became that much heavier.

As a reef was called (a skipper’s perk and what skipper in their right mind would go forward where the hard work happens and it’s bouncy and wet) one of the crewmembers commented that he’d been to the mast so often he was now on first name terms with the deck fittings up there.

He was given the WinchRite and the change in mood was conspicuous. He came back beaming and there was no going back thereafter.

The powerful motor made short work of the next reef and the genoa too. Bearing in mind we are sailing 60ft expedition yachts and the genoa sheet is on a 66:1 ratio winch, this was pretty impressive. The WinchRite doesn’t have the capacity to be used as a normal winch handle, and the battery is built in so when it runs out the unit is unavailable until recharged.

Buy WinchRite from Foxs Chandlery

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Practical Boat Owner

• Digital edition

Electric winches, handles and furlers – a buyer’s guide

• March 14, 2020

From the cockpit to the pulpit, there are Electric winches, handles and furlers on the market that can help take the strain out of sailing. Duncan Kent reports

Maybe you want to spend more time sailing single-handed, or perhaps you’re reaching the age when winching up the mainsail by hand is starting to take the fun out of a weekend sail. Whichever it is, why not accept a helping hand from Mr Volt?

The best Lithium-ion battery for your boat – we test 12 units

Kitting out a sailing boat with electric winches and furlers may look to be expensive, but if it keeps you on the water isn’t it worth it? In fact quite a few sailors end up moving over from sail to power because they no longer have the physical strength to manually winch in the sheets or haul on the halyards. But the extra cost often works out at considerably more than if they had invested in simply upgrading their sailing yacht.

For instance, a good many manual winches can be electrified by buying a conversion kit (Lewmar, Harken and Andersen all sell manual-electric upgrade kits for their two-speed winches), which often works out costing half the price of a new winch – especially if you’re good with the DIY and can modify the drive unit, and install the electrics yourself. The latter is easier than you may think as all the components are supplied, along with full instructions and an easy-to-understand circuit diagram.

Andersen electric winch

To keep costs down people often just convert one halyard winch, usually on the side of the mainsail halyard. Then, with a bit of clever rerouting of the genoa sheets via one or two new turning blocks, you can often use the same winch for hauling in the bulk of the genoa. This is a fantastic help if, like me, you have a huge overlapping genoa. If you’re feeling a little flush, why not convert one of the primary winches too?

In fact, I’ve sailed on a boat that had one electric primary, to starboard, that could be used haul up the halyards and take in the port genoa sheet simply by taking one turn around the manual winch and then leading the sheet or halyard onto the powered one. This way, once the bulk of the sheet/halyard has been hauled in, it’s easy enough to take another couple of turns around the non-powered winch ready for manual trimming if necessary.

Depending on your boat’s layout, you may want to install a second deck switch so you have a clear view of the headsail on both tacks. The owner had even set it up so he could electrically winch the kedge anchor from the stern – essential when mooring bows-to in a Mediterranean harbour to protect the rudder or for privacy in the cockpit.

Comparison table: electric winches

Reduce friction

In a similar way to reducing your power consumption before planning a new electrical system, it makes good sense to look at reducing the friction in your sail control systems before considering how best to assist you with the hard graft of winching and hauling.

Boats older than 20 years will probably have outdated blocks with plain bearings, as will many of the newer, lower cost production boats. Just spending a few hundred pounds replacing blocks and travellers with ball-bearing versions can reduce frictional loads by up to 40 per cent. Now ally this with a little thought into how you can reroute lines so as to diminish the angle of turn and maybe even take a turn out altogether where possible, and you could find you need half the elbow grease you did previously to hoist the main or sheet in a genoa.

Then there’s the sail plan. Changing to a non-overlapping jib will noticeably reduce the effort required when tacking and you can still save the big genoa for when your kids join you. Besides, with a well-cut jib you’ll lose little speed to windward in a good breeze and if you add a furling asymmetric downwind sail you’ll notice little difference on a reach too.

Modern yachts frequently sport non-overlapping jibs and sometimes even self-tailing headsails, but this usually means the mainsail is bigger to compensate, thereby increasing the effort required to hoist it in the first place.

Reefing can also be exhausting, particularly if you have a single-line reefing system, as they create a lot of friction due to the reefing lines turning around multiple blocks. If you can, use a two-line system – one line for the luff and another for the leech. Okay, it’ll mean a little more string, but it’ll need far less winching effort to drop in a neat reef.

Lastly, regular maintenance of deck gear is essential. If you don’t service your winches every year, not only will they eventually fail, but also the amount of effort required to operate them will increase until half of your hard work is wasted in turning the winch rather than doing the job. The same goes for electric winches – the increased friction will simply decrease your battery power more rapidly and you risk the circuit breaker cutting out just when you don’t want it to, should it become overloaded.

Keep a close eye on any deck switches, too. After a while water can penetrate their seals and if one of these goes faulty there’s a danger the winch or windlass might remain on – possibly with disastrous consequences.

Powered winch handles

Before you start planning to upgrade your manual winches to electric, consider the possibilities of buying a powered winch handle instead. Like everything there are pros and cons of course – as with most bits of boat kit – but we have had many boat owners writing to us to say that they’ve only been able to continue sailing thanks to one of these devices to help them on board.

First, the cons: they’re not particularly cheap, they need charging regularly and they can be lost overboard if the user is careless or loses their balance. Furthermore, if you’re sailing singlehanded it will be much easier and safer if you have self-tailing winches in order to keep both hands on the electric winch handle, as there will be a fair amount of rotational torque once the power really comes on.

The pros: they will effectively electrify every standard top-drive winch on board (although obviously only one at a time) and they don’t require you to modify your boat or install heavy-duty power cables as you would need to when fitting an electric winch.

Winchrite powered winch handle

The most popular is the Winchrite (£599), now in its second generation with more power thanks to a greatly improved motor and gearbox and extended charge duration. Yes it’s still a little noisy, but then so is any electric winch. Being low-geared for maximum power, they’re a bit slow (120rpm), so you might still prefer to pull the bulk of the sheet in by hand before letting the Winchrite take over. It also needs a steady grip to keep it from rotating when under a heavy load.

A recently launched ‘power assist’ winch handle called the ewincher is a little less bulky and lighter than the Winchrite and, better still, has two-speeds, making it more suitable for hauling in and trimming headsail sheets without needing to resort to hauling the bulk of it in by hand.

Shaped more like a traditional winch handle, the ewincher allows the user to winch manually as normal, but then assists when the load really comes on. Alternatively, it can be used purely as an electric winch handle, like the Winchrite. The good news is the 24V battery pack is removable, as with all modern cordless power tools, so you could have a second, back-up power pack sitting on the charger ready for a quick swap out. The bad news is it currently costs close to £2,700, so you really wouldn’t want to drop it overboard!

Milwaukee 8 drill

Another alternative is to use a right-angle cordless power drill, although it would need to be very powerful. A popular model is the 28-Volt Milwaukee drill, which has a 16in (40cm) long handle and is available on eBay for around £400, including a single 28V lithium-ion rechargeable battery. You can even buy a purpose-made, 8-point ‘winch-bit’ or Cranker chuck replacement for this and other 0.5in (12mm) chuck drills. Spare battery packs and a padded cover are also available, but it only has a 220V AC charger so it can only be recharged underway using an inverter.

A note of warning – both the electric winch and the powered winch handle manufacturers strongly advise you not to use any of these devices for hoisting a crewmember up the mast. This is because they have been known to fail and endanger the lives of the crew being hoisted and others below. I, too, wouldn’t condone this practice for my own reasons, but in reality many do use them for just this purpose. If they’re sensible they take additional precautions, such as not relying on self-tailing winch jaws to take the strain and attaching a second halyard with someone else other than the wincher taking up the slack and belaying it between hauls. Having another person standing by at the main power switch in case it gets stuck on is also a good plan.

Of course, the usual point of not using an external halyard to go aloft counts for both manual and powered winches. If a sheave or bearing breaks on an internal halyard at least you’re not going to plummet to the deck!

Electric furlers

Loop eFurler

In truth, headsail furlers on small to medium-sized sailing yachts shouldn’t ever need winching – manually or electrically. If they do then something is usually wrong. Either the swivel bearings are salted up or dried out, the halyard has been hoisted up too hard, or you have halyard twist at the top swivel.

But for those that simply want to ease the amount of physical work involved in sailing, there’s no reason why you can’t fit an electric furler, or an electric winch that the furling line can reach.

Code 0 and asymmetric spinnaker furlers usually have continuous loop furling lines that can require a crewmember to leave the cockpit.

However, since the advent of small but powerful Lithium-ion battery packs other solutions have been developed. The new, German-made Loop EF1500 E-Furler uses a small 18V Li-ion battery pack to drive an electric furler, designed so that it is all neatly contained within the bowsprit pole itself. It comes with a wireless remote control so the sail can be furled and unfurled from the cockpit and a spare battery can be kept in an onboard charger ready for a quick swap out if necessary.

Anchor windlass

Lewmar V1 electric windlass

Cruising sailors, both power and sail, have long been aware of the delights of an electric anchor windlass and since the development of the rope/chain combination gypsy, the whole process of lowering and raising the anchor can be automated by remote control from the cockpit.

Once again the least expensive way to take the strain out of anchor hauling is to find a mechanical windlass that can accept a standard winch handle and then buy something like the Winchrite to operate it. This saves on the expensive and heavy wiring necessary for a permanent electric windlass and doesn’t put so much load on your house batteries.

Windlass comparison table

Power considerations

Whatever way you decide to electrically ‘assist’ your sailing you’ll need to consider the effect on your boat’s electrical energy reserves. An electric winch or windlass draws a serious amount of power when operating, some 80-150A, so make sure your battery banks and circuit protection can cope with this.

While adding an additional battery to the service bank is easy, keeping it fully charged is less so. Boats that have more than one deep-cycle battery need a proper charging regime – usually in the form of a smart alternator regulator and/or more powerful alternator.

But along with more Amps going in and out comes the need for better monitoring and overload control, with careful thought given to the safety of the electrical system. Using wires that are too small in diameter not only lowers the voltage available to the device, but also increases the risk of fire on board should any of the wires overheat.

Yachting Monthly

• Digital edition

Ewincher electric winch handle review

• Sam Fortescue
• August 9, 2023

Sam Fortescue tries out the new improved versions of the Ewincher electric winch handle to find out if it lives up to the hype (and cost)

Product Overview

Designed for yachts from 30 to 60 feet, Ewincher is an electrically assisted winch handle recently upgraded and relaunched with more power and longer battery life.

You can use it as a standard handle without engaging any power or introduce more and more assistance by simply squeezing the trigger. I found the most comfortable way to use it was to keep the handle steady and let it do all the work for me aboard my Sadler 34.

The Ewincher’s improved 450W motor can now manage up to 100 rpm with 90Nm of torque – a 10 per cent increase.

The battery remains at 3Ah (about the same capacity as a cordless drill) which should be more than enough for a full day’s sailing on a 45ft yacht.

Human arms can maintain about 130W of power or peak at around 200W, so the Ewincher’s maximum 230W represents a decent boost. I found that I had to counteract that force with my arms to some extent, so it’s far from effortless.

For my yacht, power wasn’t an issue, and I didn’t get close to maxing out the Ewincher. The real benefit, I felt, would be clearer on a larger boat, as the Ewincher can easily trim a 160 m2 spinnaker in 15 knots of wind.

However, it comes into its own when you need to send someone aloft, able to haul a 110kg person to the top of a 60ft mast. I weigh nothing like that, but the Ewincher made the task of hoisting me to the masthead much easier for the rest of my crew.

Charging is easy using the 50W mains adapter and takes just 90 minutes. To charge on a boat’s 12V system, you must plug the mains adapter into the 150W Bestek inverter supplied, which I feared would overload the boat’s circuit. Although this system converts from DC to AC back to DC again, it should, in fact, never draw more than 55W. There’s also an excellent companion app for checking battery status, setting power limits, and monitoring your usage.

Weighing just 2.2kg it comes in a handy padded bag, with space for two batteries and chargers, and a smart stowage pocket for mounting in the cockpit.

I can see how this would make a helpful addition on a boat whose owner is struggling with the physical demands of trimming sails, or as a safety option allowing the slightest crew member to hoist the bulkiest.

It’s not cheap at £2,099 (plus another £299 for the extra battery), but this compares well with the cost of a single electric winch. And of course, you can use it on every winch aboard.

Buy the Ewincher from EWincher.

Ewincher electric winch handle specifications

Weight: 2.2kg Handle length: 150mm (10in) Speed: 100 rpm Torque: 90Nm Battery: 25.2V lithium-ion Battery capacity: 3,000mAh Charge time: 1.5 hours (12V/230V) Website: www.oceanchandlery.com

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'Grunter' Electric Boat Trailer Winch

Finally a high quality and powerful trailer winch has been designed and built with the purpose task of winching boats and vehicles onto trailers. Not only are these winches fast and strong, but they also come with some exciting features which set them apart from anything else on the market.

• Available in 12 or 24 Volt
• Genuine Albright solenoid electrics
• 10m of webbing suits boats and vehicles of all sizes
• Electronic brake design ensures positive engagement

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• Technical Details

Electric Boat Trailer Winch

• High speed for faster recoveries
• 316 stainless steel fittings, cross members and drum 
• Albright heavy duty solenoid as standard
• Waterproof hoist style hand remote control with optional wireless kit.
• Quality Sherpa 4x4 construction and components
• Now available in HP model for larger boats

About the Winch

This winch has been custom designed and built essentially for one operation, winching boats onto trailers. For years the world has been putting up with cheap and nasty Chinese winches which probably work for a small tinny, however quickly fail if your boat is a decent size and weight. Any half decent winches out there on the market are slow and just don't deliver value for money. Sherpa 4x4 have used their extensive knowledge of the winch and hoisting industry to build a task specific boat trailer winch. This winch is different to anything else on the market and will outperform the competition. Designed to rival the homemade winches you sometimes see professional fisherman using with starter motors and large flywheels, the Sherpa winch delivers similar high performance from a compact, safe and low maintenance design.

• Motor  - A 6hp series wound heavy duty motor is used to drive the winch. Using a large oversized motor means the winch is hardly working and therefore runs cooler and as a result lasts longer. Yes for a large motor you need large cables, however this is covered and the winch is supplied with a wiring kit which allows a good power supply from your vehicles engine bay to the rear of your vehicle, through a high amperage plug and into your winch.
• Tough & Durable - The tooling from the Sherpa 4x4 winches has been reused meaning you are getting the strength and build quality from a proven quality offroad winch in a boat trailer winch. Sherpa use aluminum winch bodies making their winches lighter and resistance to corrosion without sacrificing strength.
• Braking Design - Sherpa winches are known for their superior brake designs with their 4x4 winches housing the brake in the gearbox. For the boat trailer winch a completely new design has been incorporated and now the brake is moved to the motor. The brake design is electric meaning the brake is released when you 'winch in' or 'winch out', however activates as soon as you release the button. This design makes for a very strong and fully controlled winch brake design and it is well suited to the operating environments of boat trailer winches.
• Quality gearbox  - A new gearbox ratio has been designed and built specifically to optimise the boat trailer winches operation. These are high quality cut gears not sintered steel like your cheap winches. The selected ratio is a good balance between speed, pulling power and balancing amperage draw.   
• Electrics - Sherpa only use the highest quality genuine Albright solenoids across their full range of winches and this has been continued in their boat trailer winch. Customers demand reliability and performance and Albright deliver with the electrical components on this winch. Sherpa winches are IP68 rated.
• Powerful - These winches have been designed to still achieve 3500 lb of vertical lifting capacity on their most outer layer making them suitable for hauling large heavy boats up ramps. This winch will retrieve boats weighing up to 12,150 lb on a 45 degree inclined ramp without having to double line pull.  Now also available is a HP model which is geared lower and slower with even more power. Designed for boats weighing 9,900 lb - 20,000 lb or for people dragging big boats onto trailers without rollers. 
• Simplicity - The Sherpa boat trailer winches are supplied with everything needed to mount and wire the winch at home. Whilst we recommend the services of a auto-electrical to safely run the cables, instructions and components are supplied in the box to make installation a breeze. Generous cabling is supplied in the box to suit large 4x4's such as the 200 series Landcruiser however longer cabling can be provided on request for larger American style of trucks.
• Warranty and Parts - 5 Year warranty. A complete range of spare parts are also available in Australia if ever required. 

Genuine Albright Solenoids

All Sherpa 4x4 winches come with genuine Albright solenoids! Incorporated into our electrics is a custom made version of the DC88P solenoid designed specifically by Albright International for the Sherpa 4x4 control boxes. With 70 years experienced in contactor design, these are by far the best winch solenoids available. Capable of handling up to 800 amps, almost twice the maximum capacity of the winch. Contact plating is second to none, increasing the duty cycle over other winches. As seen in our water submersion testing videos the Albright solenoids can be run for significant time under water without moisture ingress. The cheap Chinese solenoids used in the majority of winches will fail under extreme conditions and under high amperage load.

• 'Plug n Play' Wireless remote kits
• Sherpa 4x4 recommends the use of a battery isolation switch on all installations. A 500A continuous rated switch suitable with Sherpa 4x4 winches can also be supplied.
• Synthetic rope alternative to webbing strap. This option is supplied for customers to fit themselves as an alternative to the 50mm webbing. You will received 12m x 7mm rope with a MBS of 9,480 lb. A drum fixing lug is fitted to one end and a stainless steel hook the other end.

'Grunter' Boat Trailer - Product Demo

Sherpa 4x4 Winch Testing

Salt Water Submersion Test

Boat Trailer Winch Technical Details

Performance data for 12v boat winch.

Winch Owner's Manual  

Grunter Boat Winch Owner's Manual

ATV Winch Owner's Manual

Winch Dimensions:

'Mustang' 9,500Lb with 28m spool

'Brumby' 10,000Lb high speed winch

'Colt' 12,000Lb

'Steed' 17,000Lb with 28m spool

'Steed' 17,000Lb with 45m spool

'Mule' 17,000Lb dual motor winch with 45m spool

'Stallion'  25,000Lb winch with 30m spool

Tow Truck Winch 20,000Lb

'Grunter' boat trailer winches (Standard & HP Models)

'Grunter' Boat Trailer Winch Mounting Bracket

ATV Winch 4,500Lb

ATV Winch 4,500Lb Mounting Plate

Winch Control Box

Wiring Diagrams:

Dual Motor Winch Wiring Diagram

Winch Solenoid Wiring Diagram

Winch Weights:

Cable Data:

Customer Reviews

I haven’t got it installed yet but looking at it I would say that everything I have read about it is true. Looks like a very high quality winch.

When l get it installed and can use l will comment

I ordered the Grunter with rope upgrade. Arrived in quick time considering it's coming from Australia. Installation was pretty simple. Runs smooth and no issues after over 100 pulls. Would recommend especially to those with larger boats as the power on these winches is unbelievable.

I bought a Sherpa Grunter winch system and installed it on my boat trailer. It has been in service since early spring. The Grunter is a beast for certain. My fishing vessel is a 26' Sea Pro that weighs about 8000 lbs. The Grunter motor hardy labors pulling the boat onto the trailer (single line). And, it is fast. Sherpa winches are by far, superior to the competition.

First chance to try out the new grunter winch on my boat way surpassed my expectations what a nice addition to my trailer Great product

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An electric winch is powered by a motor situated below the deck. It allows crew to tighten rigging without effort.

These fittings facilitate line adjustment when unusual effort is required. They can be used to adjust sheets, halyards and other lines, and are particularly useful on very large sailboats or those with crew including seniors or others with physical limitations.

Such winches resemble manual models to which a powerful electric motor has been added. The internal gearing increases mechanical advantage and lines are wrapped around a drum coated with a non-slip surface. They are controlled by waterproof switches installed nearby. Models with multiple gear ratios offer different winching speeds, while drum diameter determines maximum load. On self-tailing versions, a built-in cleat in the form of circular jaws around the top of the drum keeps tension on the free end of the line.

Choice will depend on the winch's location on the deck and anticipated maximum load. Adequate installation space, including for the motor, is another factor. A self-tailing model is particularly useful when sailing short-handed.

- Nearly effortless line handling

- Requires space beneath the deck - High energy consumption - No indication of excessive strain

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Best Electric Boat Anchor Winches: Top 5 Picks

Electric boat anchor winches are essential tools that make anchoring your boat safe, efficient, and hassle-free. As boating becomes increasingly popular, so does the demand for reliable and effective winches. When it comes to choosing the perfect anchor winch for your watercraft, it’s essential to consider factors such as ease of use, durability, power, and the specific needs of your vessel.

An electric anchor winch is a motorized device that assists in dropping and retrieving your boat’s anchor. It provides a significant advantage over a manual winch, saving time and energy while ensuring a consistent anchoring process regardless of weather or water conditions. One of the critical aspects of an electric winch is its power source, either DC power from your boat’s battery or an external AC source, which determines the winch’s strength and duration.

Choosing the ideal electric boat anchor winch depends on several factors, including your boat’s size and weight, the type of anchor you intend to use, and the winch’s capacity to handle the load. Additionally, you should consider the winch’s construction material, ease of installation, and the availability of replacement parts or customer support. These factors will ensure that you select a winch that is not only suited to your needs but will provide years of reliable service.

After considering these essential aspects, we compiled a list of the best electric boat anchor winches available in the market. Our comprehensive research took into account user reviews, expert opinions, and thorough testing, resulting in the identification of top-performing electric winches for various boat types and applications. Dive into our detailed reviews to find the perfect electric boat anchor winch for your boating adventures.

Best Electric Boat Anchor Winches List

Minn Kota DH 40 Deckhand Electric Anchor Winch – Best Overall

Trac Outdoors Pontoon 35-G3 Electric Anchor Winch – Best For Pontoon Boats

Electric Anchor Winch – 45LBS White – Best For Heavy Loads

Trac Outdoors Deckboat 40 AutoDeploy-G3 Electric Anchor Winch – Best For Deckboats

Camco TRAC Outdoors AnchorZone 20 Electric Anchor Winch – Budget Pick

Best Electric Boat Anchor Winches Reviewed

I have compiled a list of the best electric boat anchor winches available on the market. These products will make your anchoring experience efficient and hassle-free. Let’s explore the top options together.

Minn Kota DH 40 Deckhand Electric Anchor Winch

The Minn Kota DH 40 is a reliable electric anchor winch for those who want convenience and ease in boat navigation and placement.

• Effortless anchor management with a touch of a button
• Davit-mounted horizontally to prevent anchor swing
• Can handle up to 40 lbs anchor and comes pre-spooled with 100 feet of 800 lb-test nylon rope
• 12-volt battery not included
• Remote accessory for corded remote operation sold separately
• Designed for anchors weighing 20-40 lbs only

I recently used the Minn Kota DH 40 Deckhand Electric Anchor Winch on my fishing trip, and I must say, it made navigation and boat placement a breeze. With just a touch of a button, I could raise and lower my anchor, allowing me to focus more on fishing and less on adjusting my position manually.

Another feature that impressed me was the horizontal davit mount, which effectively eliminated anchor swing. This provided more stability while keeping the anchor secured and away from causing any damage to my boat or the surrounding environment.

However, I did find it slightly inconvenient that a 12-volt battery was not included in the package. Additionally, while I appreciate the fact that it’s designed for anchors weighing between 20 and 40 pounds, those who use lighter or heavier anchors may need to look for other options.

In conclusion, the Minn Kota DH 40 Deckhand Electric Anchor Winch is a great investment for avid boaters and anglers who value convenience, safety an

Trac Outdoors Pontoon 35-G3 Electric Anchor Winch

The Trac Outdoors Pontoon 35-G3 Electric Anchor Winch is a reliable and efficient choice for boating enthusiasts looking to automate their anchoring process.

• Easy to operate with smooth, automatic raising and lowering of anchor
• High-efficiency, 12-volt DC motor with less battery power consumption
• Maximum anchor capacity of 35 lb.
• Doesn’t work with chain leaders, only rope
• May struggle with stowing heavier anchors
• Some users report installation difficulties

I recently used the Trac Outdoors Pontoon 35-G3 Electric Anchor Winch on my boat, and I must say it made anchoring a breeze. The easy-to-use buttons allowed me to automatically raise and lower the anchor, and the excellent holding power kept my boat secure in various conditions.

The high-efficiency motor was noticeably less power-consuming compared to other brands I’ve tried, making it an eco-friendly choice for boaters. Additionally, the 35 lb. maximum anchor capacity should suffice for most anchoring needs.

However, I noticed that the winch doesn’t work well with chain leaders, as it only works with rope. This may limit its versatility for some users. Although it’s designed to handle a 35 lb. anchor, stowing heavier anchors may pose a challenge. Another thing worth mentioning is the reported installation difficulties by some users.

Overall, the Trac Outdoors Pontoon 35-G3 Electric Anchor Winch is a solid choice for those looking to automate their anchoring process. It’s easy to use, efficient, and has a reasonable anchor capacity. With some potential drawbacks, it might not be perfect for everyone, but it certainly made my boating experience more enjoyable.

Electric Anchor Winch – 45LBS White

This Electric Anchor Winch is a great buy for boating enthusiasts seeking a reliable and user-friendly anchoring solution.

• Automatic resetting circuit breaker for continuous protection
• Separate roller davit for easy boat positioning
• High-efficiency 12V motor with excellent holding power
• Limited to 45lbs anchor capacity
• No batteries included
• Made in China with potential quality concerns

I recently used the Electric Anchor Winch on my fishing trips and was thoroughly impressed by its performance. The high-efficiency 12V motor consumes less battery power and can securely hold an anchor weighing up to 45lbs. I found the winch lowering the anchor smoothly and quietly without any rope backlash.

One impressive feature is the automatic resetting circuit breaker which protects the winch from overcurrent. I like having the peace of mind that the winch will reset and continue working once the issue is resolved. Additionally, the separate roller davit made it easy for me to position my boat precisely, keeping my boat in the ideal anchor zone.

However, I must point out that the winch is limited to a 45lbs anchor capacity, which may not be suitable for some larger boat applications. It was also a bit disappointing that the winch didn’t come with batteries, requiring a separate purchase. Lastly, for those concerned about manufacturing origins, this product is made in China, which might raise questions regarding its quality and durability in the long run.

Overall, this Electric Anchor Winch is an excellent investment for boating enthusiasts with smaller vessels. Its high-efficiency motor, automatic resetting circuit breaker, and separate roller davit contribute to its all-around functionality and appeal.

Trac Outdoors Deckboat 40 AutoDeploy-G3 Electric Anchor Winch

This electric anchor winch is perfect for those seeking a reliable, easy-to-use solution for their boating adventures.

• Easy and smooth automatic deployment and retrieval
• High-efficiency motor conserves battery power
• 40 lb. anchor capacity
• Anchor not included
• May require additional wiring for some installations
• Retrieval speed could be quicker

I recently had the chance to use the Trac Outdoors Deckboat 40 AutoDeploy-G3 Electric Anchor Winch, and my experience was quite pleasing. Deploying and retrieving the anchor was incredibly smooth, thanks to the easy-to-use buttons and the winch’s excellent holding power. The high-efficiency 12-volt DC motor also ensured that the winch used less battery power compared to other brands.

One downside I encountered was the absence of an anchor – you’ll have to purchase one separately. Additionally, depending on your boat setup, you may need to splice extra wiring to properly install the winch, as one of the reviews pointed out. Lastly, while it works well, I did find the retrieval speed to be a bit slow.

The package includes 100-feet of pre-wound braided anchor rope, a wireless remote, and a comprehensive set of assembly hardware and instructions. This makes installation a breeze (although, as mentioned earlier, you might need to make slight adjustments for your specific boat).

In conclusion, the Trac Outdoors Deckboat 40 AutoDeploy-G3 Electric Anchor Winch is a solid choice for boaters seeking a reliable and straightforward anchor winching solution. The few drawbacks are easily outweighed by the overall performance and convenience it offers.

Camco TRAC Outdoors AnchorZone 20 Electric Anchor Winch

The Camco TRAC Outdoors AnchorZone 20 Electric Anchor Winch is a reliable and efficient choice for boating enthusiasts looking for an easy-to-operate winch with excellent holding power.

• Effortless operation with smooth, automated raising and lowering
• Durable, high-efficiency, 12-volt DC all-steel gear motor
• Maximum anchor capacity of 20 lbs (15 lbs recommended)
• Anchor not included in package
• Some users experienced issues with durability over time
• Struggles with lifting anchor in certain conditions (e.g., submerged in sand, mud)

When I tested the Camco TRAC Outdoors AnchorZone 20 Electric Anchor Winch on my boat, I was impressed by the smooth, automated operation it provided. The easy-to-use buttons made it simple to raise and lower my mushroom river anchor without any hassle, allowing me to focus on enjoying my time on the water.

The high-efficiency, 12-volt DC all-steel gear motor uses less battery power than other brands, making it a more eco-friendly option. Its maximum anchor capacity of 20 lbs is sufficient for most anchor types, though a 15 lb anchor is recommended for optimal performance.

One downside I noted was that the anchor is not included in the package, requiring a separate purchase. However, with its one-year limited warranty and overall excellent performance, the Camco TRAC Outdoors AnchorZone 20 Electric Anchor Winch is undoubtedly a valuable addition to any boat owner’s arsenal.

The winch does struggle to lift the anchor in certain conditions, such as when it’s submerged in sand or mud, but in most situations, it performs effectively. Overall, I’d recommend the Camco TRAC Outdoors AnchorZone 20 Electric Anchor Winch to anyone seeking a user-friendly, efficient option for their boating adventures.

Buying Guide

When you’re in the market for an electric boat anchor winch, there are several key features to consider in order to select the best product for your needs. In this buying guide, I will discuss the most important aspects to keep in mind while shopping for a winch.

First and foremost, consider the weight capacity of the winch. It is crucial to ensure that the winch can handle the weight of your anchor and any additional equipment you might have. Typically, the capacity is expressed in pounds or kilograms. Keep in mind your boat’s size and anchor weight when determining the appropriate capacity.

Power Source

Another essential aspect is the power source of the winch. Electric anchor winches can be powered by either a 12V or 24V system, so it is important to match the winch to your boat’s electrical system. Make sure to check your boat’s voltage before making a purchase.

Rope and Chain Compatibility

The compatibility of the winch with the rope and chain types used on your boat is crucial. Electric anchor winches typically work with either rope, chain, or a combination of both. Take note of the specific requirements for the winch you’re considering to ensure compatibility.

Control Options

Different winches offer various control options, such as wired remote controls, wireless remote controls, or foot switches. Consider what type of control you’re most comfortable using. Evaluate the distance between your preferred control location and the winch, as this can influence your decision.

Ease of Installation

Consider the ease of installation when choosing a winch. Some models are designed for quick and easy installation, while others may require more time and expertise. Keep in mind your own skills and the availability of professional help if needed.

In conclusion, by considering these factors, such as capacity, power source, compatibility, control options, and ease of installation, you can make an informed decision and find the best electric boat anchor winch for your needs. Happy shopping!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top electric anchor winches for small boats.

In my experience, some of the best electric anchor winches for small boats include the Minn Kota DeckHand, the Powerwinch RC23, and the Trac Outdoors Fisherman. These winches are designed with compactness and ease of use in mind, making them ideal for smaller vessels.

Which electric winches are suitable for pontoon boats?

For pontoon boats, the Trac Outdoors Pontoon 35 and the Lewmar Pro 1000 are popular choices. These electric winches are specifically designed for pontoons, with features such as adequate pulling capacity, versatile mounting, and an anti-drift mechanism that help accommodate for the unique characteristics of pontoon boats.

How does a hand crank winch compare to an electric one?

While hand crank winches can be more affordable and lightweight, electric winches offer several advantages. For example, an electric winch is faster, more efficient, and requires less physical effort to operate. This can save you time and energy when anchoring, especially in rough or challenging conditions.

What makes Minn Kota anchor winches stand out?

Minn Kota is a reputable brand known for its reliable and durable products. Their anchor winches, including the popular DeckHand series, come with features that make anchoring easy and safe. Some key features include a stow-and-deploy mechanism, integrated davit, and an anti-drift option. Additionally, Minn Kota winches are compatible with various boat sizes, making them versatile choices.

What are the key features of a TRAC electric anchor winch?

TRAC electric anchor winches boast several impressive features, such as an auto-resetting circuit breaker, an all-steel gear system, and a simple switch control. Other highlights include corrosion-resistant components and versatile mounting options, which make TRAC winches suited for various types of boats and situations.

How do drum anchor winches differ from other types?

Drum anchor winches use a horizontal axis for winding the anchor rope, as opposed to the vertical axis used in capstan or gypsy winches. This design allows for a more compact unit that is usually easier to install. Additionally, drum winches often have greater line capacity, which can be useful for deeper anchoring needs or when deploying a larger amount of rope.

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High-Quality Lone Star Marine Drum Winches

Lone Star Marine USA is the North American branch of Lone Star Marine Drum Winches, which are known across the globe for superior quality and reliability.

The GX Series drum anchoring systems are made using the highest output custom designed & manufactured IP68 drives, feature oversized 316 stainless steel structural components, and 6061 billet aluminium bearing hubs.

Using advanced manufacturing techniques & manufactured in Australia (not China), the GX Series anchor winches are made to withstand harsh marine environments and heavy use.

Enhance your boating experience with installation location flexibility, jam free operation, and the superior speed and pulling power of the Lone Star range.

Wide Range of Anchoring & Line Hauling Accessories

In addition to drum winches , Lone Star Marine offers a wide range of boat hardware & accessories , including anchors , bow sprits (anchor davits), deck rollers , hawse pipes , rope & chain kits , line hauling products, and more.

Most winches are available as Combo Kits including rope , chain , deck roller , and anchor swivel.

These accessories are designed to work seamlessly with Lone Star Marine winches and provide added convenience and functionality to your boating experience.

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We do it right! Lone Star’s team of experts is dedicated to providing exceptional customer service.

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Easily retrieves lightweight and fishing boats up to 17' and 4000 lbs. 12 volt, electric cable winch featuring smooth power-in/freewheel out action for fastest retrieval speeds. Regardless of size, all Powerwinch winches are made from the highest grade materials and designed for long wear.

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POWERWINCH 912 12V Electric Boat Trailer Winch #P77912

Stock# 5127119 POWERWINCH Model 912 Trailer Winch is well established with a solid, reliable reputation. It features smooth power-in/free-wheel out operation, 60 amp standard wiring harness and a pulley block for double line applications. You can use a pulley or block at the bow eye to double your pulling power.

POWERWINCH Model 912 Trailer Winch is well established with a solid, reliable reputation. It features smooth power-in/free-wheel out operation, 60 amp standard wiring harness and a pulley block for double line applications. You can use a pulley or block at the bow eye to double your pulling power.

While the manufacturer shows higher ratings, we suggest this winch be used for most boats up to 26' in length or up to 9,500 lbs. Single Line Vertical Lift Capacity: 4,000 lbs. Double Pull/Line Capacity: 7,500 lbs. @ 11° incline Power Source: 12 volt DC-60A Cable Length & Diameter: 40' x 7/32" Gear Ratio: 450:1 DIMENSIONS: 10" x 10" x 8" 2 Year Manufacturer's Warranty

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Best Electric Boat Trailer Winch: Never Struggle with Boat Trailer Loading Again

September 20, 2020 by Charles Burke 2 Comments

Last updated on March 11th, 2023 at 02:28 am

Whether you are new to boating or not, you have probably seen people at the ramp struggling to launch or land their boat. What a lot of people don’t realize is they could make this task much simpler by using one of the best electric boat trailer winch .

Table of Contents

Top 6 Best Electric Boat Trailer Winches For Sale

Based upon our extensive research, analyzing countless reviews, and our own personal experiences, these are the top 6 best electric boat trailer winches for sale today.

• Bravex Electric Winch
• Megaflint Trailer Winch
• Master Lock Electric Winch
• Dutton-Lainson Strongarm
• Powerwinch RC 30 Wireless Remote Trailer Winch
• Fulton 500621 XLT Powered Winch with Wireless Remote

Best Electric Boat Trailer Winch Reviews

Many boaters quickly get tired when using hand-cranked winches to bring their boats onto their trailers. As a boater, you may also have challenges when loading your boat by yourself, as this will consume much of your time. Therefore, it is essential to find the power winch for your boat trailer that will solve your problems.

An electric winch can not only save you time, but it can also save your back and shoulder from not having to crank the boat onto the trailer. This is particularly helpful if you are older or have any health problems that would otherwise keep you from being able to enjoy your boat.

Electric boat winches are very common today, but picking the right one can be challenging if you don’t know what to look for. This article will help you understand how to choose the best power winch for boat trailer that can work well and fit your boat.

Keep in mind that a trailer winch is different than an electric boat anchor winch .

*Our Top Choice*

1. Bravex Electric Winch

The Bravex Electric Winch is one of the best electric winches in terms of speed and efficiency. The winch has been modified to have a reversible mechanism and up to 30% more power than similar electric boat winches. Its Direct Current mechanism allows for easy connection.

This winch comes with a wired remote control that plays a significant role in minimizing labor during the operations. It is made in a way that you can efficiently work from the unit. It also gives you a clear view of your boat when it is going onto the trailer.

Besides having a remote controller, it handles boats of up to 6,000 lbs according to the manufacturer. The powerful motor in the Bravex Electric Winch has terrific features that make this machine a top performer. One of the best features is that it has both electric and manual operating modes.

The Bravex Electric Winch also produces very little noise, which those in the area will appreciate. This makes this machine suitable in crowded areas.

This winch comes with a modern braking system that is highly reliable and helps prevents accidents. Lastly, this winch is multipurpose in that it can allow you to operate on cars and move other equipment other than boats.

2. Megaflint Trailer Winch

The Megaflint Trailer Winch is a winch that works on up to 12-volt Direct Current power. It is produced with both power out and power in capability. It has been modified to handle various work, and it comes along with a free-wheel device.

This Winch comes with a modern and reliable braking system and an excellent working friction brake. The braking options allow you to handle many operations when stopping your boat and carrying your boat on to the trailer. This mechanism helps to ensure that there is no boat damage when hauling.

Additionally, the Megaflint trailer winch is manufactured to produce low noise, which used to be a common complaint of older models.

This winch is also designed to operate both manually or electrically when putting in and out. This trailer winch is made to lift a 5,000 lb boat. Megaflint also claims that it produces up to 30% more power than comparable winches from other brands.

3. Master Lock Electric Winch

The Master Lock Electric Winch is among the most common and best electric winches that are out there. It does a good job for a cheap electric boat trailer winch. It has a compact and portable design making it useful for things other than your boat trailer.

It comes with a cable containing a steel mounting plate with a 30 feet long cable with a working cable of 20 feet and a maximum boat weight of 5,000 pounds.

Like the previous winches on our list, the Master Lock Electric Winch comes with a hand-crank, which can be used when there is no power available.

Wired Remote

4. Dutton-Lainson Strongarm

If you are looking for an electric boat trailer winch to install, then the Dutton-Lainson Strongarm is worth considering. This winch comes along with a remote controller which is connected with a 10 feet long cable. This allows you to better focus on your boat from different directions.

With a 50 feet long cable and a firmly mounted hook, the Dutton-Lainson device has been made to work on 4,000 lbs of carrying capacity. Note that after 3 minutes of run time, this unit requires 15 minutes to cool down. Some may find that inconvenient.

Wireless Remote

5. Powerwinch RC 30 Wireless Remote Trailer Winch

The Powerwinch RC 30 Wireless Remote Trailer Winch is top choice of many boating enthusiasts thanks to it’s power and durability.

The Powerwinch RC 30 comes along with a wireless remote controller, which most users will find convenient. It is very powerful, with a 4,000-pound pulling capacity, and can handle boats up to 11,500 pounds.

The RC 30 is produced with corrosion-free materials to increase its durability. It comes along with heat-treated gears that will also help this one last longer than most others. It is firmly constructed and built to last.

The Powerwinch RC 30 comes with a one year warranty, which is fairly standard.

6. Fulton 500621 XLT Powered Winch with Wireless Remote

The Fulton 500621 XLT Powered Winch with Wireless Remote   is among the most efficient winches that you can find in the market due to its unique features that are significant for boat owners.

This winch has a wireless remote and can effectively pull boats that weigh up to 10,000 pounds making it one of the most heavy-duty winches found on the market. It also has a total of 3 guides which helps ensure that the strap comes out straight at any given time.

The Fulton 500621 XLT Powered Winch with Wireless Remote comes along with a lock ring and simple bolts that are easily installed. This device is made to suit adverse weather conditions, which means that you can depend on it when other winches might fail.

We also really love that this winch comes with a total of 5 years warranty. It is the most extended warranty that any electric boat trailer winch has on our list. Along with its efficiency, the Fulton 500621 XLT Powered Winch comes with a reasonable price considering its power and warranty.

Best Electric Boat Trailer Winch Buyer’s Guide

When looking to purchase an electric trailer winch, there are several key factors to consider. The main ones are load capacity, the type of remote (if any), and whether the winch comes with a synthetic strap or steel cable.

Load Capacity

Winches are usually rated according to the respective weights that they can carry and pull, not just the length or size of the boat. Therefore, you must choose a winch that will fit the weight of your boat and motor. Obviously, longer and heavier boats need to have the most powerful winches with the highest load capacity.

The main thing is to choose an electric trailer winch whose capacity is at least three-quarters of the whole boat weight. While not a rule set in stone, this is a good overall guideline to follow.

When using a winch, be certain not to exceed the recommended capacity. Overloading will damage either your boat, trailer, or your winch.

Consider the Power Winch, electric winch, Fulton electric winch, Megaflint electric winch, and Bravex Electric Winch for heavy loads. On the other hand, the Master Lock Electric Winch and Dutton-Lainson Strongarm work well with lighter loads.

Remote Type

Always consider whether you need a remote to use during your operation and whether you need a wired or wireless remote controller. For instance, if you have a giant boat and find it difficult to see down the trailer, you should always prioritize an electric boat trailer winch that comes with a remote controller.

Remember that wireless and wired remote controllers play a significant role in pulling winches. The wired remote controller doesn’t require a battery since it is directly connected to the power. Wireless remotes need batteries, so be sure to always have a spare with you when boating.

We prefer a wireless remote controller since you can operate your winch from a distance away from the unit. Most of the wireless remotes will work at a maximum distance of about 150 meters.

Steel Cable vs Synthetic Strap

Boat winches come with either a steel cable or synthetic strap. You should always know which one that you need depending on your budget, location, load, and weather conditions.

Many people dislike steel cables because they can fray and rust. They can also be difficult to spool and kink. Because of this, they are a bit more difficult to use sometimes and require maintenance and occasional replacing. On the other hand, steel cables are stronger and less affected by environmental factors such as UV rays.

Synthetic straps are more user-friendly and require far less maintenance. However, they are more affected by the environment, such as degradation from UV rays. While they too require replacement over time, they are cheaper to do so.

All in all, we generally recommend that most people go with an electric boat trailer winch with strap whenever possible.

The best electric boat trailer winch is a wise investment for any boater. It will not only make the job of landing your boat much quicker and safer, but it will also save you from injuring your back, arm, or shoulder from not having to crank the boat onto the trailer. A well-powered boat winch will give you good value for your money, and the best ones are durable and should serve you well for a long time.

Make sure that you make an informed choice and buy an electric boat winch that will be right for your boating needs. Lastly, be sure to check the warranty for each choice, should you need to make any claims if any mechanical problems arise.

Check out our other boat trailer accessories reviews .

For instructions on how to install an electric boat winch, check out the following video.

Last update on 2024-03-03 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

About Charles Burke

Lifelong watersports enthusiast and author. I have owned and worked on boats for over 25 years. My love for everything marine related led me to create this site and share my knowledge with like-minded boat and watersports lovers.

April 5, 2021 at 7:24 am

Thanks for your information. I also want to buy a boat trailer winch because loading and unloading a boat is difficult, requiring a lot of effort and equipment to mount on a trailer and get off the water.

April 9, 2021 at 12:01 pm

Hi Gary. You are correct, loading and unloading a boat is indeed difficult. We recommend the Bravex Electric Winch, if it fits your trailer.

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