On this hunter’s Far North adventure, the reward was far greater than simply taking game

 

I’m standing grim-faced in the open bow of Peter Aqqaq’s 18-foot Silver Dolphin, with the well-honed tip of a homemade harpoon dancing in the wind just centimetres from my chest. As we bounce across the Arctic waters at near full-throttle, balancing precariously might be a more accurate description than standing. At least the harpoon is serving to help me keep my footing, much like a tightrope walker’s balancing pole. But speed is necessary if we’re going to catch up to the bearded seal that’s the object of our quest. It comes up for air only periodically, and we’re attempting to get within harpoon distance before it disappears again. Each time the seal goes under, there’s no telling how far, or in what direction, it will swim before resurfacing.

There are actually three boats in all-out pursuit of the massive seal, with various members of Peter’s extended family taking part in the chase—hunting here is traditionally a family or community-based affair. After several failed attempts by the others to close the distance, our boat finally manages to be in the right place at the right time. The seal breaks the surface just off our starboard bow, then quickly dives again when it spots our looming boat. Just before our quarry gets too deep, I throw the harpoon with everything I’ve got. Miraculously, it’s a hit, and I toss the attached rope and large red float overboard to avoid getting tangled in it all. Peter shouts that we’ve connected, and the hunters in all three boats break out in raucous cheering. It’s hard to say who’s more surprised that I was successful on my first attempt, me or my Inuit hunting companions.

To watch Ken Bailey’s successful seal hunt, go to www.outdoorcanada.ca/harpoon.