Lewmar ProFish Windlass: A "Horizontal" Windlass

A power windlass takes most of the work out of repeated anchoring, often required in reef fishing as well as gunk-hole type cruising. It also means operating short-handed is much more manageable, since the anchor and rode can be deployed or retrieved without anyone actually touching the system in most cases.

Power windlasses add a safety factor as well, since no one has to go forward to handle the rode in rough seas. And they also mean there’s no need for a true “deck ape” as a mate, since no physical strength is required to retrieve the anchor.

Lewmar makes many of the best-known and most dependable anchor handling systems, including the Lewmar Pro Fish Windlass, designed specifically for reef anglers.

Key Features and Advantages

The Lewmar ProFish Windlasses series offers a range of features that set them apart from traditional windlasses.

The Pro-Fish has an automatic freefall that allows the captain to pull right up over a wreck or ledge and drop anchor in the right place to put anglers directly over the fish. No more running the motor or wasting fuel while “hover-fishing”. Retrieval is just as easy, with the push of a button. Plus, the Pro-Fish is DIY-installation ready and 100% made of durable and good-looking 316 stainless steel.

The automatic free-fall mechanism means physical access to the windlass is not required to drop or retrieve anchor with a bow-roller or through-the stem anchor and rode setup, except on the initial drop when you remove the safety catch.

The gypsy has been specially designed to suit leaded lines up to 16mm in diameter and a revised control arm and new Pro-Guard plate prevent the rope from jumping out of the windlass or snagging during operation.

Features

• Automatic freefall
• Powerful motor providing fast line speed
• Manual emergency recovery equipped all you need is a common 1/2 socket wrench
• Strong 100% 316 stainless steel, including control arm and stripper
• Maximum pulling power: 320kg (700 lb) for the 700 and 454kg (1,000 lb) for the 1000
• Convenient above-deck installation
• 5-year warranty
• For boats up to 12m (38ft)
• Free Fall conversion kits

A Safer and More Enjoyable Anchoring Experience

Beyond the tangible benefits of efficiency and convenience, Lewmar ProFish Windlasses contribute to a safer and more enjoyable boating experience. By eliminating the physical strain associated with manual anchoring, these devices reduce the risk of accidents caused by fatigue or mishandling of heavy rodes and anchors.

The precise control offered by ProFish Windlasses minimizes the chances of anchor dragging or slipping, which can lead to hazardous situations for rode handlers as well as for the boat in changing tides or strong currents.

Specifications:

• Lewmar gypsy no.: 516
• Chain size: 5/16" G4
• Rope size: 9/16" or 5/8" 3-strand or 5/8" 8-plait
• Motor voltage: 12V DC
• Power consumption: 700W
• Current draw: 50 Amp
• Circuit breaker: 70 Amp
• Max. pull: 1000 lbs
• Boat size: 28 to 38 ft. LOA
• Max. working load: 250 lbs
• Rode release: Automatic freefall
• Retrieval speed: 88 ft / min
• Material: 100% 316 Stainless steel (including control arm and stripper)
• Dimensions: 5-3/4" x 9-5/8" x 7"
• Warranty: 5 years

In the Box:

• Windlass
• Base gasket seal
• Fast-mounting studs
• Installation wrench
• Circuit breaker
• Dual-direction solenoid
• Rocker switch

 Lewmar ProFish Windlasses are available to fit various load sizes, with prices beginning under $1,000. (Be sure to order your anchor chain sized to fit the Gypsy wheel on the model you choose.)