harpuner

A harpooner is an individual who traditionally hunts large marine animals, such as whales, seals, and sharks, using a harpoon. The harpoon is a specialized spear-like tool, often with a barbed head, designed to penetrate the thick blubber and hide of these creatures and secure them for retrieval. Historically, harpooners were crucial members of whaling and sealing crews.

The role required considerable skill and bravery. Harpooners would often stand at the prow of a small boat, known as a whaleboat or seal boat, and expertly throw or launch the harpoon when the opportunity arose. The initial strike was vital, aiming to embed the harpoon deeply enough to attach the animal to the boat via a rope. This process, known as "making fast," would then allow the larger vessel to approach and complete the kill.

Modern whaling and sealing practices have largely replaced the traditional harpooner with mechanical harpoon guns and other advanced technologies. These systems are mounted on larger vessels and can fire explosive-tipped harpoons from a distance, which are more efficient and considered by some to be more humane than older methods. However, the term "harpooner" may still be used informally to refer to individuals operating such equipment, or in historical contexts to describe the skilled individuals of past maritime traditions.