Rigging a flag at the masthead

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Jul 25, 2005
124
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My boat currently has no means of flying a flag on top of the mast and I am wondering how do I rig somthing up to fly a flag up there? Thanks, Jeremy
 
Dec 30, 2005
44
- - Nassau Bay, TX
Pig stick

I believe the method is to rig a "pig stick" to a masthead halyard so that the top of the stick hangs down, until the line flips the stick upwards as it gets to the top of the mast/sheave. This is the proper method to fly a burgee on a sailboat. However, with all sorts of devices at the masthead on modern boats, I have not seen it done.
 
M

Mike

Now, that is interesting

That "pig stick" method of flying a flag or burgee is one of those things, many things, I have never heard of. Another sailing lore fact to stash away. Thanks
 
Jun 6, 2006
6,990
currently boatless wishing Harrington Harbor North, MD
Burgees

Burgees do not have to be taken down at sunset like the Ensign or the US Flag so you don't have to go up the mast but once a season. Unless your club has rules stating otherwise. For the record a "flag" is an ensign or national colors and are properly flown from 0800 to sunset from the stern on a pole or 2/3 the way up the rearmost sail leach. Course the latter makes it hard to fly the colors at port but it sure looks salty while sailing.
 
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