10 Best Boat Windlasses 2025 in the United States

The Lewmar Pro Fish 700 is a horizontal windlass designed for boats up to 38 feet, supporting 1/4" G4 chain with a maximum pull of 700 lbs. Its 316 stainless steel construction offers strong corrosion resistance, which is essential for durability in marine environments. The windlass provides a quick line speed of 100 feet per minute, making anchor deployment and retrieval efficient.

Installation is designed to be straightforward, with an above-deck setup and a detailed manual, ideal for boat owners who prefer a DIY approach. The included kit comes with all necessary hardware, such as circuit breakers and switches, ensuring you have everything to get started without extra purchases. As a horizontal type, it saves space and is well-suited for smaller to mid-sized boats. The windlass weighs over 28 pounds and runs on a 12V power source typical for boats, so compatibility with your vessel’s electrical system should be checked.

This windlass represents a reliable and durable choice for fishing and recreational boats needing a solid, easy-to-use anchoring solution, especially if you want a trusted brand with a 3-year warranty.

The Lewmar 12V/700-Watt Pro-Series Gypsy windlass is a solid choice for boat owners with vessels between 20 to 38 feet. This horizontal windlass offers a powerful pulling capacity of up to 700 lbs and can handle a 1/4-inch G4 chain, making it suitable for various anchoring conditions. The motor's 700-watt power ensures a fast line speed of 100 feet per minute, which can be quite beneficial for efficient anchoring operations.

Materials used are high-quality 316 stainless steel, known for its excellent corrosion resistance, ensuring long-term durability even in harsh marine environments. Installation is straightforward and designed to be DIY-friendly, with all necessary components included in the kit, along with a detailed installation manual. The windlass also features a built-in manual emergency system, providing additional reliability. However, it is relatively heavy at 26.8 pounds, which may be a consideration for some users.

The product may be on the higher end of the price spectrum, but the durability and brand reliability can justify the investment. The Lewmar brand is well-regarded in the marine industry, offering a three-year warranty, which adds peace of mind. This windlass is ideal for boaters looking for a reliable and durable anchoring solution that is easy to install and capable of handling significant loads.

The Lewmar Pro Fish 1000 12V Chain Holder is a horizontal windlass designed for boats ranging from 28 to 38 feet. This windlass can handle a maximum pulling load of 700 lbs and is compatible with a 1/4 inch G4 chain. One of its standout features is the auto free-fall system which allows for quick anchoring, enhancing efficiency and reducing the time spent hovering for the perfect spot.

The motor provides a fast line speed of 100 feet per minute, which is beneficial for quick and efficient anchoring. Constructed from 316 stainless steel, it boasts excellent durability and corrosion resistance, ideal for marine environments. Installation is made easy with a comprehensive manual, and the product includes all necessary components such as a guarded rocker switch, solenoid, and circuit breaker. This makes it a suitable option for DIY enthusiasts.

Lewmar is a well-regarded brand in the marine industry, adding to the product's credibility. The windlass has a relatively heavy weight of 32 pounds, which might be a concern for some users. The product is best suited for those who need a reliable, durable, and easy-to-install windlass for medium-sized boats, especially those looking for quick deployment and retrieval of the anchor.