Thanks for the replies!

Wyatt, I think your set up is just what I'm looking for. And just the type of project I like. I have a couple of questions: which end of the pole did you plug, the end that is attached to the dolphin striker/ extension, or the loose end, and what is the purpose of pluging it if the other end is not plugged?. Also, am I correct to assume that the wider end of the pole is on the dolphin striker end and the narrower one on the rear crossbar end? and finally, when the pole is extended for use is a looped rope the only thing that keeps it in place or do you insert the hollow end into the end of the mast extension?

I'm going to try this one. I guess the mast could be substituted for an aluminum tube or just about anything with those same general characteristics. I will email you to get more info. I already did a small sketch of this set up as I went through your list.

Thanks again!!