Mooring Line

[rjm337]

I'll be mooring my boat in the lake while I am camping close by this summer. The lake/reservoir hasn't filled yet, so 2 weeks ago I drove out on the lake bed and dropped some concrete blocks at the same 'depth' as others who have moored there for years. I currently have a temporary rope tied onto fenders in case the water is up when I return with the proper mooring gear.

My question is what type of mooring line should I be using? Chain, rope or aircraft cable? Most people on the lake are using aircraft cable, but it's not galvanized, so it can/will rust. Cable is strong and light, but the corrosion concerns me. Chain is dependable, galvanized, but heavy. Nylon rope is light, but it will break-down over time.

I am able to inspect and repair/replace my mooring line every spring when the water is out. I have a 20' boat, 4000lbs, mooring in 20' - 30' of water, generally calm water to 2' waves during storms.

 

[Wee Hooker]

Re: Mooring Line

I wouldn't consider anything but galvanized chain for a seasonal tie-up

 

[esobofh]

Re: Mooring Line

A light galvanized chain would do you - but you'll still need to inspect it every spring. The boat weight isn't too much of a factor, the chain is supporting your anchor weight, not the boat weight.

That might seem funny, but the fact is if you have a 100lb concrete block, your mooring chain must be able to support a 100lb load.. because if there is more than a 100lb pull on the chain, it's going to lift/move your anchor - which is when the load will be applied to the chain. There's no reason to have a heavier chain, since any pull more than 100lb would simply negate your mooring anyway...

The point is.. a light chain is fine (within reason).