Fought a 25-30 lb Mahi last Thursday.
When I hooked up I immediately luffed by using my quick release on the main sheet.
But I had to remove the mast and store it before continuing the fight. Note I have been working on this technique for a few months and take advantage of any smaller fish that hit in anticipation of a large one like a striped marlin or an ahi.
IMHO took too long and this is with sidekick and the small 20 ft sq sail.
I'm anticipating it might take even longer with an AI.
I'd really like to see a folding mast to clear decks for large fish.
Here's a method. Not the best for the situation I described, but maybe possible using the hinge and pin without the stays.
http://www.com-pacyachts.com/mastendrpictorial1.php
Is the Hobie mast light enough to use the above system or a variation?
Does anyone know of any folding masts techniques that could be adopted with Hobie's furling mast?
Roadrunner has previously suggested a beach umbrella technique. I think this, essentially a universal joint, combined with a sleeve and pin could be developed.
Would be a great item for the Adventure or AI as a big fish fighting machne, or getting under bridges during races such as the Watertribe, or just plain transit in tidal waters where bridges exist.