Gree, the end of the pole is supported. The line that controls horizontal swing from side to side, when cleated, also holds the end of the pole down as if tied to the bow eyes (although actually coming off the pulleys there). As for pre-bend, I'll do that if needed. So far, I've had it in 20 knot wind with no ill effects, and w/out prebend works better along with the bungee to allow the tip to move from side to side. Whether that's a desirable feature will have to be worked out in the spring with further testing (and I can always go back to a traditional setup w/ pre-bend and stationary pole), but my conclusion so far is that it does seem helpful at times. Plus, it's one more set of lines to tinker with! <img src="http://www.catsailor.com/forums/images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" />