Hailing is often but not always best practice, and is not required. The spin you give above would probably not hold water with the judges in my area.

When I'm in a situation like above (especially in a drifter), if I'm not on the wire I will put the Hot Stick on the rail or tramp and hold it in place with my leg. This keeps me on a very straight course, and it will be really obvious to me if I have to avoid.

Mike