Whisker Pole Options

[Don K.]

I can't afford a Forespar whisker pole for my Chrysler 26 right now. Do I have any other options for a pole?

 

[Bill O'Donovan]

Idea

Order just the two ends of the pole from West or Boat US and attach them with screws in a long piece of PVC. You may need to use a little duct tape to get a snug fit on the ends, but a single wood screw at each end will keep them from popping out. The pole will bend a little but will work well.

 

[Justin - O'day Owners' Web]

Painter's pole

Someone else suggested recently that a $30 pole from Home Depot used to paint with a roller above head height might work. Seems like a good idea.Justin - O'day Owners' Web

 

[Jim Covey]

What about Sailnet.com?

Don,I've been contemplating getting a Forespar ADJ6-12DL whisker pole from Sailnet for my H26. They list at less than $100. Would this be an option for you? Does anyone have an opinion about whether a 1.25" diameter pole is OK for a 26 footer? I thought it would be fine.Good luck,Jim

 

[Don K.]

Whisker Pole Length

Suggested pole length is 100% of the foot of the headsail. I have a 160% genoa, 16'at the foot that puts me into Forespar ADJ 7-17-DL that West Marine sells for $349.99. That is what I can't afford right now.

 

[Ed Welp]

Boat Hook

We just bit the bullet and purchased a used pole over the internet. Before that we used a boat hook. A crew on the down wind sat up on the bow and held the head sail out. We got by for club races on Thursday nights. you can check us out at the link below.