There are few spots you'll have to anchor in more than 20 feet of water. The plow anchor is useful because it allows our boat to swing with tide changes without fouling the rode. Many anchorages have reversing currents due to the effects of tide, and you may need a second anchor to limit your swinging room. When headed south, this problem will first be encountered in Beaufort, North Carolina. The anchorage in Taylor Creek is always crowded, and the channel must be kept clear for the huge menhaden ships that use it.
Most cruisers use two anchors here.
We like to use the dinghy to set the second anchor, as it is easier to put the hook exactly where we want it. Even if you set the anchors from your big boat, you should have a good dinghy capable of motoring out a kedge anchor when you go aground. The subject of dinghies is always good for a long conversation, but we would like to say just a few things. First, you must have one. You will definitely need it for getting ashore if anchored out.