Quiet innovation is revolutionizing the world of sport fishing boats, and Reese Fullerton of Canyon Marine Solutions is at the forefront of this transformation. Recorded live at the 22nd Annual Carolina Boat Builder Foundation Tournament in Manteo, North Carolina, this enlightening conversation reveals how cutting-edge marine bearing technology is enhancing performance across multiple industries.

Founded in 2019, Canyon Marine Solutions has quickly established itself as a pioneer in shaft bearings and dripless shaft seals. What makes their proprietary polymer bearings extraordinary? They're significantly quieter than anything else on the market—a claim backed by submarine testing data—and typically last two to three times longer than competing products. For tournament fishing boats where every advantage matters, this difference can be crucial.

But the story extends far beyond recreational vessels. The same innovative materials powering championship sport fishing boats are also at work in aircraft carriers, Coast Guard vessels, and hydropower plants. This versatility speaks to the exceptional quality and reliability of Canyon's engineering solutions. As Fullerton explains, their success stems from a commitment to customization rather than off-the-shelf solutions. They evaluate each shaft line holistically, taking into account the specific needs of boat builders, captains, and owners.

The conversation takes an inspiring turn when discussing industry relationships, revealing how fierce competitors like John Bayliss and Paul Spencer maintain a spirit of collaboration that strengthens the entire boat building community. This mirrors Canyon Marine's own business philosophy centered on integrity and exceptional service—values that align perfectly with "the Ward's Way" of doing business.

Subscribe to hear more conversations with marine industry innovators as we celebrate 75 years in business and share insights from the water's edge. Have you experienced the difference quality bearings make in marine performance? We'd love to hear your story!

Wards Marine Electric
https://www.wardsmarine.com/

Wards Way YouTube Channel
https://www.youtube.com/@WardsWay75

There's a hidden gem on the Outer Banks of North Carolina that the world's most discerning boat owners have discovered - Wanchese, the quiet epicenter of custom sportfish boat building. When Michael Jordan wants a tournament-ready fishing machine, this is where he comes. But why?

We're broadcasting live from the 22nd Annual Carolina Boat Builder Foundation Tournament in Manteo with Justin Montes, CEO of D'Angelo Marine Exhaust. Together, we peel back the layers on what makes Carolina sportfish boats so special, exploring the stark contrast between the hustle of Fort Lauderdale's yachting industry and the authentic, multigenerational craftsmanship found in these small coastal communities.

Justin shares fascinating insights into the engineering challenges of creating custom exhaust systems for today's powerful engines, working within tight spaces while ensuring optimal performance for vessels that operate in remote locations worldwide. We dive into the knowledge transfer challenges both our family businesses face as master craftsmen approach retirement, and the importance of mentoring the next generation. The conversation reveals how this tournament does more than celebrate beautiful boats - it funds education programs that teach middle schoolers to build skiffs, creating a pipeline of talent that sustains the region's boatbuilding heritage.

What truly stands out is the collaborative spirit among these world-class builders. Despite being competitors, they freely share best practices and support each other's success, creating an environment where "high tide raises all boats." If you're fascinated by the intersection of craftsmanship, technology, and maritime tradition, this episode offers a rare glimpse into a world where handshake deals still matter and the quality of your work speaks louder than any marketing campaign.

Subscribe now and join us for more conversations with the people who make boating extraordinary.

Wards Marine Electric
https://www.wardsmarine.com/

Wards Way YouTube Channel
https://www.youtube.com/@WardsWay75

The salty air of Manteo, North Carolina, sets the perfect backdrop for our Season 4 opener at the 22nd Annual Carolina Boat Builder Foundation Tournament. As we mark 75 years of boat-building excellence, this episode captures the essence of what makes the Outer Banks fishing community truly special.

Our conversation with Justin Bateman, host of the Outer Banks This Week podcast, reveals how local media has evolved to serve both tourists seeking the perfect vacation spots and fishing enthusiasts hungry for the latest catch reports. With 124 episodes under his belt, Justin shares insights on what content resonates most with listeners – from practical bar etiquette to vital real estate trends in this coveted coastal market.

The heart of our discussion centers on Captain Marty, whose storytelling captures decades of Outer Banks maritime history. A former charter captain who transitioned from the helm to the airwaves, Captain Marty now preserves the oral history of Carolina boat building through his dedicated podcast channel. His deep friendship with renowned boat builder John Bayliss offers listeners authentic glimpses into the evolution of sportfishing in these waters.

You'll hear the heart-stopping tale of a deckhand – heir to the Coors Beer fortune – who went overboard miles offshore, only to be miraculously spotted by another captain hours later. These stories highlight not just the dangers of deep-sea fishing but the incredible bonds formed within this tight-knit community where captains look out for one another when the unexpected happens.

Whether you're a fishing enthusiast, boat-building aficionado, or simply love colorful tales from unique American communities, this episode offers a window into a world where tradition, craftsmanship, and unforgettable characters converge.

Subscribe now to catch the full season as we continue exploring the rich heritage of Carolina boat building and the people who've made it their life's work.

Wards Marine Electric
https://www.wardsmarine.com/

Wards Way YouTube Channel
https://www.youtube.com/@WardsWay75