As an investment, I would say they hold their value pretty well. Try to find a used one.

If you enjoy sailing, it's nice to pop the sail out and glide along. IMO, the PA has good stability with the sail and I enjoyed using it. I do like to sail though.


As a tool, if you're willing to learn to use it, it can work as a hybrid power source. Keep in mind there is a maximum and minimum wind requirement and directional limitations. Carrying it onboard, you want to make sure it doesn't interfere with your fishing equipment or activities.


If you decide to get one, there are some rigging tips that make the sail easier to use. You should plan to add the price of one Micro-block at minimum (for better sheeting).

,what Micro bloc and where

You'll be a pro in no time. Have a blast!

A microblock is just a small pulley -- looks like this:


Its job is to eliminate friction in the "main sheet" and make the sail more responsive to quick and easy handling. On the PA it attaches to the padeye just aft of the cargo well. One end connects to the sail and the the other is held in your hand. It can be cleated off in light winds.


If you're new to sailing, there are a few things to learn before using it while fishing. The last thing you want is to capsize in a sudden wind gust with your fishing gear not tethered -- it might tend to leave you with a bad impression.

1. Read up on basic sailing and sail handling what makes the sail pull the boat upwind, what wind directions you can sail how to present the sail to the wind, turning (tacks, jibes, etc), how the centerboard works (your fins act as your centerboard) and so forth.

2. Rig your boat with the block. I find it much simpler to permanently separate the mainsheet from the sail for quick sail set-up and take down -- just connect it with a snap hook:

Make a separate small "tail" to secure the sail:


3. Practice sailing (including raising and lowering sail) without any fishing gear until you get comfortable with the procedure with some decent wind and get used to the heel. Learn how to luff when necessary and how to tack as a substitute for jibing when the wind is gusty.

4. You'll be a pro in no time. Have a blast!

It's worth every penny in my opinion. Just remember that you need to learn how to sail - a sail is an airfoil, you can move in any direction, including into the wind, except for a narrow area about 40 degrees directly into the wind.

I chose the PA to learn how to get the feel for using and trimming the sail. When you get it right and sail is properly trimmed, it'll pop and you'll be amazed at the feeling. I finally understand why people who love to sail, love to sail. It's quite an experience.

You won't roll the PA with the Hobie sail, but you can sure set it on edge. "Sailing for Dummies" is actually a pretty darn good book. Buy it, read it and try it. You may forget about fishing for a bit while you have fun sailing. It's addictive.