What could happen if you anchor a boat from the stern?

1. Reduced Stability: Anchoring from the stern can compromise the boat's stability, especially in windy or rough conditions. When anchored from the stern, the boat's weight distribution is shifted towards the back, which can make it more prone to tipping or rolling. This can be particularly dangerous in strong winds or currents.

2. Increased Drag: Anchoring from the stern creates more drag on the boat, making it more difficult to maneuver and control. The increased drag can also cause the boat to swing more widely when anchored, potentially causing it to collide with other boats or obstacles in the water.

3. Difficulty in Retrieving the Anchor: Retrieving the anchor can be more challenging when it's deployed from the stern. As the boat moves forward, the anchor line can get caught under the hull, making it difficult or impossible to pull it up. This can be a frustrating and time-consuming situation, especially in strong currents or windy conditions.

4. Reduced Maneuverability: Anchoring from the stern limits the boat's maneuverability and responsiveness to changes in wind or current direction. When anchored from the stern, the boat may be more difficult to turn or control, making it more challenging to avoid obstacles or navigate tight spaces.

For these reasons, it's generally recommended to anchor a boat from the bow, where it provides better stability, reduced drag, easier anchor retrieval, and improved maneuverability.