[chumbucket]

8lb is plenty as long as you use 4'-6' of chain. I usually kept a spare 4lb on board for a stern anchor. I didn't use it a lot, but there were certain circumstances when fishing in tight to rocks where a stern anchor was required to maintain position without bouncing off the rocks. The stern anchor was also a plus when taking the family out and beaching the boat. We often put in on a nice sandy beach that had lots of current and lots of other boats. The stern anchor kept your boat from swinging into other boats. Just drop the stern anchor before hitting the beach, then motor right up onto the beach, snub the stern line, then set your bow anchor on the beach and watch your tides. ;)