Whisker Pole

A light pole used to hold the clew of a headsail out when sailing downwind.

A whisker pole supports the headsail on the side opposite the mainsail in a goose-winged arrangement or keeps it filled when wind and vessel motion would otherwise collapse it. It is commonly adjustable in length and is normally lighter than a spinnaker pole designed for different loads and geometry.

The pole must be connected, controlled and loaded according to its design. Crew should keep clear of the pole and sheets and manage the risk of an accidental gybe or sudden collapse of the sail.