Abstract: A downhaul device for tensioning a sail attached to a mast. The device includes a lever having a cleat at one end. The lever is pivotally attached to a fulcrum which can be removably mounted on the base of the mast. A downhaul sheet attached to the sail is passed through the cleat on the lever. Moving the lever in one direction causes the cleat to grip the sheet and pull it through another cleat attached to the mast and apply tension to the sail. Moving the lever in an opposite direction releases the sheet. The lever may thus be operated with a ratcheting action to incrementally apply tension to the sail.