Wow! Awesome responses, thanks! With this input I can come up with a pretty clear idea of how to do it efficeintly. It's apparent that I'm just not committing, being unfamiliar with a new boat and frankly , pretty spooked about a boat this light in these winds. But I know it's doable, and that I'll get better with practice. And that with more hours on it, my confidence will improve, and that should help holding on longer and jumping at the right time.
Thanks again for all the generous advice. I enjoy this exchange immensely. What a great deal to be able to get tips from those of you even more seriously addicted than myself! One of the reasons I got the boat was for the challenge, and it looks like I won't be disappointed. Gonna drag it over the Flathead Lake tomorrow, and leave it there til Flight Risk goes in (June, when the water comes up so I can use the lift).

Dave