Abstract: The method is applicable for retrieving an anchor having an anchor buoy holding an anchor pendant line. A trailer buoy is connected to the anchor pendant line via a floatable line. A work vessel is fitted with a boom having a catch hook so positioned that the hook is several feet abeam of the vessel and at or below the waterline. Capture is achieved by sailing the vessel so as to cause the trailer buoy to pass between the vessel and the boom hook so that the boom hook snags the floatable line. The boom is swung out of the water and sternward so that the trailer buoy and a section of the floatable line are brought aboard the vessel, the floatable line then being used to retrieve the anchor pendant line. The floatable line may be in two sections to facilitate attachment to winches, cranes or other retrieval equipment.