When observing a nautical chart we often see symbols and letters indicating what kind of seabed could be found at certain locations. This information is very often helpful when choosing a place to anchor. The following descriptions are from NOAA Chart #1 - a book that lists all of the symbols used on NOAA charts.
S = sand
M = mud
Cy; Cl = clay
Si = silt
St = stones
G = gravel
P = pebbles
Cb = cobbles
Rk; rky = rocks - rocky
Co = coral and coraline algae
Sh = shells
S/M = sand over mud
Wd = weeds
There are also "branchy squiggles" for kelp
And "wavey squiggles" for sand waves
Knowing what kind of bottom there is will help you determine what kind of anchor to use.
Fluke anchors like the "Danforth" anchor are best suited for sand or sand/mud bottoms.
Hinged plow anchors like the venerable "CQR" are best suited for sand, weeds or rocks
Claw style anchors like the "Bruce or Claw" anchors are best for sand or rocks
Non-hinged plow anchors like the "Delta" are best for sand, rocks, weeds, or mud
Non-hinged scoop anchors like the "Rocna" are best suited for sand, rocks, weeds or mud
Pick your anchor for the bottom you intend to anchor in.
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