^^^ What kilroy said, the only thing I might add is to pay out the scope you need if you plan to anchor in channel or backwater current. Just know your bottom, I'm in sand and mud down here..(pool 10)
there is usually a good current in the Mississippi. Many folks that overnight on the river will beach or at least go to the back waters. There a plow anchor will work well. I use a separate stern anchor also. Keeps me from swinging too much and acts as a good backup to allow me to sleep better. You need to look out for wing dams in Pool 3 (Hastings to Red Wing) don't want that to ruin your night's sleep.
I guess I'm the only naysayer. I use a Danforth, and have found that they can hold more weight around here than a plow. The Danforth is specifically for mud and sand, and down here, that's all we have.