We used to do this all the time on the C&C 25. We wouldn't leave it hooked up all the time, but it means you can hook up the guy, uphaul, downhaul and clip the pole to the mast but leave it on the deck so you can tack over it on final approach to the mark (or gybe-set). We still hook everything up, but now the inboard end of the pole is 4' off the deck, so the chances of getting something caught are far greater.
