---

yes, you can just move the backrest forward and use it as a lean post. Now at 275# I would not sit on it but just lean back against it. They are pretty strong, I sit on mine and I am 190#.

I usually have the anchor well plug in. Especially in salt water due the wave action. Around the lakes I forget to put it in sometime. I store the boat with it out all the time. To me, just helps keep the ropes aired out. I also use one of my fenders to keep the anchor well hatch open when stored.