I think our right to anchor is an American tradition. Our water heritage on this coast is well documented and I always bristle at questionable infringements of that right.

But some places have local restrictions. They may or may not have federal backing, I don't know.

I also think moorings can be a problem. Even here in Maine, some great anchorages are peppered with casual moorings. I for one don't hesitate using a vacant mooring(staying onboard). And I'll also anchor around them if I think there's room and there are no known restrictions.

Afterall, plunking down a mooring somewhere does not necessarily allow you to hold an area of anchorage hostage for an occasional private use.

Long ago, I anchored in Hopetown inner harbor for a couple nights. It was tight and we were between moorings and the shore. No one gave me any trouble, then.