<SNIP>
<< In middle Georgia, you just don't ask bass boaters for assistance. They
cannot figure out why anyone would even get on a lake without a "fishin pole"
:)... >>
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I would suggest carrying a fishing pole off stern. As soon as they see
fishing pole. they will slow down to about 10 MPH from 85 MPH to check if you
got are getting any fish.( "HEY! fish biting?" ) Makes it easier to ask for
help {;^)
<< I tried to 'heave to". As soon as I thought I locked the sails to hold
me in that position, the wind would shift and I would do a complete circle.
This pretty much kept me in my seat. <SNIP> was real leary of going forward
into the cabin and lower the main to reef. So I closed it up and used myself
as balast the best I could.
I also dumped air as soon as the gust started. How can you reef in such a
condition.....? >>
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A long time ago I learned why they call it "heave to". It's from the
upchucking you do after trying to do anything in truly windy weather.. {:^)
You should reef before going out. Even with so called "Jiffy Reefing" {:^(
Once you are out there and it starts blowing there is no possibility of going
anywhere to reef. Unless you can do an out-of-body experience.. I have never
encountered truly windy weather that would allow me to leave cockpit without
drowning me. I have never, ever, been able to heave to without wind trying
to twist me in all directions as it tries to flip me out of boat. All I have
ever been able to do is lock the companionway hatch to keep water out. (a
very wise move!) I have done my fair share of up-shucking but been totally
inept at "heave to". You must take countermeasures before leaving dock.. Not
after..
You have learned a lesson from practical experience.. Never forget it. Now
you are one of the experts.. You didn't learn it from an arm chair, book
reading Admiral that never went to sea but read a lot of books about it.. You
got it from Hard Knocks U. A diploma should be in the mail.. {:^)
Welcome to the group.. You have been duly baptised/chastised..
Best
SF
I would recommend you never try the other "expert" method of dealing with
windy conditions - lying a hull. Unless you are fond of roll-overs..
Q? What lake/basin were you in? I've (speed) motored Georgia Lakes but have
yet to Potter them.. Wife is from Macon..