I don't have a sock and am simply trying to capture & bag a spinnaker on a small cat. The problem is that, when I release the halyard and try to pull the tack in from the tip of the pole, everything seems to want to drop in front of the boat and then "shrimp" under. I know that heading directly downwind w/ the main out is supposed to help, but are there any other tips as far as technique goes (besides buying a sock <img src="http://www.catsailor.com/forums/images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" />)? Is there some other line to attach to help? (Seems like I've heard of one used on the "belly" of the spin...) When dousing, should I release the sheet and let it blow free, or try to use the clew corner to help get it onto the boat? Any help would be greatly appreciated!

Bring the tack in first, gather both of the lower corners of the sail in and then let go of the head. The head should then com striaght down the mast between your legs where you can bundle it up and stuff it into the bag. Or something like that.....

just before dousing, grab the sheet at the tack and as the previous poster said, get the foot first, then go for the vertical material. Gather it into your lap or between your knees.

Grab the sheet at the clew. other than that- spot on!

Just before dousing, I would throw the halyard off the back of the boat, this would eliminate any kinks in the line that would cause it to jamb while dousing, and provide just enough resistance to keep the spin from falling too fast and getting away from you.

Thanks for the input, everyone. I think we've got her solved.

Oops, sorry... doped up on cold meds.... tack... clew... what's the difference, lol.

Be careful throwing the halyard off the back b/c if it does not straighten out, it will hit the cleat in a big knot, then you're doubally screwed.

You really need to be sure that the crew has been doing housekeeping on the deck to be sure that the halyard is not tangled or impinged by a butt cleat.