what's the best size Jib for a Catalina 27?

[KenH]

So, my little boat that I use on the river is a 27' Catalina.
I getting a new jib, the old one is just falling apart.
I was wondering if any one can suggest what size would be the best?
135 140 or 150. now I know a 150 is a good size but, on the river it would help so I wouldn't have to change over to the Spinnaker.
Please give me your best thoughts.
Thanks.

[Sailmonkey]

What river?

What range of wind speeds?

[KenH]

Originally Posted by Sailmonkey

What river?

What range of wind speeds?

The Columbia, Oregon.
No more then 20 on the normal side and 10ish most the time. I don't usually go out until 10 to 15 mph in the afternoon.

[sandy stone]

If you're not racing, 135 is a handy size, easier to tack especially singlehanded. A high clew is nice for visibility, IF your jib lead track runs far enough aft.

[KenH]

Originally Posted by sandy stone

If you're not racing, 135 is a handy size, easier to tack especially singlehanded. A high clew is nice for visibility, IF your jib lead track runs far enough aft.

Thanks for your input Sandy Stone..

I know that the 130, 135 handles well. This is one of a few 27' Catalina's that has a wheel at the helm. the only time I have to step forward of the wheel is to raise the main. Everything is set up for single handed and the track runs just aft of the mast all the way to the stern. I have plenty of room for any of them.

[KenH]

Originally Posted by sandy stone

If you're not racing, 135 is a handy size, easier to tack especially singlehanded. A high clew is nice for visibility, IF your jib lead track runs far enough aft.

oh, just to mention on the racing thing.
Yes I do, just with a bunch of friends in the marina. Nothing fancy but fun times. Came in Second last Saturday only because I was letting a friend run the jib and he thought brute force HAHA.. could make it go faster.. Cost us 20 bucks for the loss... lol
Next Saturday, I'm single handing it.

[Captain Bucknut]

IMHO.... Go with a furling 150. That way you can decide how much jib you want depending on the conditions. Mine has a window cut in so I can see what's ahead to the lee as we are on a very busy lake. From the PO I also have a storm that will sleeve over the furler but I have never found the need to use it and by its condition, neither did the PO.

[thunderhoof]

I suggest you find a local sailmaker with a good reputation. Tell him how you sail and get his advice. Going to a cheap outside source is good only if you know exactly what you want.