Has anyone ever had an experience or heard of any instance where a Hobie mast was struck by lightning (either on or off the water)? In summertime t'storms come up pretty quickly where I live. Besides obvious advice like not holding onto trap wires...what precautions do people here take?

Yes, There are a couple of reports in this forum about Hobie masts getting splintered by ligtning. I recall one on the beach. I would do a search.

I've often asked myself the same question. What the hell do you do when those black clouds suddenly pop up out of nowhere. Jump into the water and let the cat sail away?? Risk getting barbecued on a fine mesh tramp??

If you're really worried, then capsize the boat (and maybe turtle it if the water is deep enough.) Turns a 28' lightning rod into two 7' lightning rods (or two 22"-tall pieces of non-conducting fiberglass!) Ride out the storm on the lower hull / tramp and then right the boat when you think it's safe.

Better to head for shore if you see a storm coming up, though. Remember lightning can strike up to 5 miles from a cloud.

Many posts on these forums about lightning. Go to "Search" at the top of the page, ask for "Lightning" and designate "All posts."