Reply To: Wisker poles

Dear Nick

The length of the pole should be approx equal to the beam of the boat, give or take a smidge and it is handy if it extends by one or two positions. That gives you choice for how far out you pole. Any riggers should have a range of poles, extending or otherwise. I can't remember the make of ours it might be Kemp. Usually they fit in a slide attachment that goes in the groove at the front of the mast (riggers should be able to advise for your mast) so the height is adjustable for different uses. You will probably need small cleats on the mast to take up and down haul ropes for the pole, and the slider and a bottom fixing on the mast to fly and stow the pole on the front of the mast. The only problem with this is if your mainsail cover is a bit neat, it will need to be adapted to take the extra of the cirumference of the pole. The alternative stowage is across the boat rght up at the bows, near to the forestay. Hope this helps, and good luck. Chrissie