How do I use a Whisker Pole?

[Josh]

Okay, I figured it out. I have a whisker pole (I think!). Its a twist lock version from Forspar. Thanks to everyone for the help. It has two hooks with spring loaded closures on each end. The closures have a cable looped through them, to open them with a sheet of some short I assume...If I'm right, the whisker pole is supposed to act like a boom for the jib when running. My question is where does it mount, how do I operate it, what do I tie it to, and any other information anyone might have on it!Thanks,Josh

 

[Don Evans]

Whisker Pole

Josh, as you now know its a downwind tool used to hold the jib out, and keep it from collapsing when wind shifts. As you surmised the one end is tripped open using a bridle made from some small stuff (bigger poles use wire), securely fastened to the wire loops on each end and brought back to the safety of the mast end . From the safety of the deck you snag your genoa clew with one end and attach the other to a mast pad eye located on the front of the mast, above the height of the gooseneck. The length is equal to the length of the sails foot. No other fastened is desireable as you want it to ride a bit with the jib. There is a short description of these poles in the West catalogue if you have one. Its a great tool for long downwind passages in shifty winds. Its a great addition to anyones sail handling tools.Don

 

[Josh]

Thanks!

Thanks Don,I'm going to check for the equipment to mount it to the mast...I don't recall seeing anything to mount that hook to. I'm going to also get a box wrench and allen wrench to loosen and tighten the turnbuckles.Haven't sailed yet, but had a few adventures...sad to say! Heh.Thanks again,Josh