Hi Grehan!!

The method we use varies quite a lot, depending on space available, proximity of other yachts, depths, wind/wave/swell direction, AND the latter's potential for change. Simple really!!

If possible, and after checking the depths carefully, we will come in head to waves (more important than wind usually) and drop othe kedge off the stern. I'd better explain that we have a stern chain locker c/w chain pipe, so this is a really simple, single-handed operation, as the rode runs out on it's own. The kedge has 40-45 feet of chain spliced to 50 metres of anchorplait.

We motor forward to where we want to set the bower and let that go (again, the 35lbs CQR self-launches and can be controlled on the windlass from the cockpir of foredeck) and then we have a cup of tea while it sets, after which we back it in on the motor. The final act is to pull in the kedge and centre the boat where we want her. Takes ages to write down but is very easy to do - usually!!

If the above method is not suitable, we'll anchor in the normal way, then row out the kedge and drop it where needed to hold the stern in the right place. If we're going stern-to rocks or trees, we'll set the bower, row a line ashore to our chosen fixed point, then 'centre the boat where we want her.

The risk of the prop fouling the kedge rode has never been a problem as it tends to stream astern (obviously!) while we're dropping the bower, and is hauled in as we pull the bower home.

It is really a very simple 'system' as it has to be, because I use it single-handed a lot. Most of the problems I've seen on other boats result from either a lack of preparation, or the fact that the kedge is not permanantly or even semi-permanently ready for use. You know the sort of thing - it's dug out of the bottom of the locker at the last minute, then the chain/rope rode has developed a 'mungle' and takes half an hour to sort out!

Our Bruce hooks onto the protected middle rail of the port pushpit with it's shank held in a grooved teal block fixed to the rubbing strake by a bit of bungie. It takes around 5 seconds to release AND launch, so is fabulous if we have to kedge of the mud after a 'navigational' error!!!

Here's a (not very good) picture showing the set-up: