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

From selling electrical breakers to sailing the seas on a luxurious Spencer Yacht - this captivating conversation reveals how passion, perseverance, and family bonds create a lifetime of maritime adventures.

Recorded live at the 22nd Annual Carolina Boat Builder Foundation Tournament in Manteo, North Carolina, this Season 4 premiere introduces us to a remarkable grandfather-grandson duo whose story embodies the spirit of fishing culture. The grandfather shares his journey from modest childhood beach weekends with his mailman father to eventually owning prestigious vessels, proving that dreams anchored in genuine passion can manifest through unexpected paths. His manufacturer's representative agency selling utility electrical equipment funded what would become his greatest joy – a Spencer Yacht he describes as having "the ride, the beauty...an incredible machine."

Meanwhile, twelve-year-old Jake radiates enthusiasm as he recounts catching sailfish in the Dominican Republic and his simple joy of "being out in the ocean." His presence represents what the boating community treasures most - passing down traditions to create "a new crop of anglers." Their vessel, splitting time between North Carolina waters and Costa Rica's pristine coastlines, serves as both a fishing platform and family bonding space. The conversation reveals how boating transcends mere recreation to become a multigenerational lifestyle where memories are crafted on open waters.

Subscribe to the Wards Way Podcast as we continue celebrating 75 years in business with more compelling stories from the boating world.

Have you introduced someone young to the joys of fishing? Share your story with us!

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

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

The spirit of Carolina boat building comes alive as we broadcast from the heart of Manteo during the 22nd Annual Carolina Boat Builder Foundation Tournament. Joining us are Rebecca Spencer and Lisa Howell, two women with unique perspectives on the Outer Banks maritime community through their connections to prominent boat building families.

Our conversation reveals the excitement surrounding the upcoming Pirates Cove Billfish tournament and Alice Kelly tournament, both supporting meaningful charitable causes. Rebecca and Lisa offer rare insights into what makes these events special – from the camaraderie among competitors to the community involvement that transforms fishing competitions into a celebration of heritage.

"If you know, you know" becomes the unofficial motto as we explore what makes Dare County the undisputed epicenter of sport fish building. The pride is palpable as they describe how Carolina builders have "paved the way" by blending traditional craftsmanship with cutting-edge innovation. What emerges is a portrait of an industry where multi-generational family businesses thrive alongside loyal employees whose children continue their legacy.

The conversation takes us beyond Manteo to favorite fishing destinations (with a unanimous vote for Costa Rica, though we're warned to "watch out for the monkeys"), and culminates in reflections on what makes a tournament winner: dedication, teamwork, and heart. As one guest perfectly summarizes, "Teamwork makes the dream work" – a philosophy that extends throughout this remarkable community, keeping American maritime traditions alive.

Subscribe to hear our follow-up episode where we'll get the full tournament results and discover which boat claimed the prestigious victory!

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

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

Have you ever wondered what makes a tight-knit community of competitors work together seamlessly? From the docks of Manteo, North Carolina, comes a rare glimpse into the world of custom boat building, where family traditions, craftsmanship, and community spirit create something truly special.

Bow Meekins of Blackwell Boatworks joins us against the backdrop of the 22nd Annual Carolina Boat Builder Foundation Tournament to share what he's learned from nearly three decades in the industry. Since joining the family business in 1996, Bow has witnessed the evolution of custom boat building while maintaining the core values that define these heritage companies.

"The boat is valued at how much joy it brings," Bow shares in one of the episode's most memorable moments. This simple philosophy cuts to the heart of why passionate boat owners invest in these floating masterpieces. It's not about the price tag – it's about the experiences and memories created on the water.

What truly distinguishes the Outer Banks boating community is the paradoxical relationship between fierce competition and unconditional support. As Bow explains, these builders "talk smack for a year" about whose boat performs best, yet in times of crisis, they'll walk into each other's shops without hesitation to lend expertise or materials. This culture of cooperation springs from deep roots – many grew up together, their fathers played sports together, and now their children are continuing these generational relationships.

The conversation touches on everything from adapting to new technologies ("It's going to happen, so you better get on board with it") to the perfect boat name ("All In" gets Bow's vote), offering listeners both practical wisdom and a heartwarming look at an American craftsmanship tradition that continues to thrive against all odds.

Whether you're a boating enthusiast or simply appreciate the value of community and craftsmanship, this episode captures the spirit of what happens when passion and purpose align.

Subscribe now to catch more conversations that celebrate the people and stories behind America's finest maritime traditions.

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

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

Standing on the docks of Manteo, North Carolina, surrounded by gleaming boats and generations of craftsmanship, we witness something extraordinary happening at the 22nd Annual Carolina Boat Builder Foundation Tournament. This isn't just about fishing competitions and prizes – it's about how a community comes together to build pathways for its young people.

The tournament's impact extends far beyond the water. Last year alone, it generated $1.2 million in scholarship funds for Dare County students. But what truly captured our attention was "First Class" – a fully functional skiff designed and built entirely by seventh-grade students over five months. These 12 and 13-year-olds worked from blueprints to finished product, guided by dedicated teachers and local boat builders who shared generations of knowledge.

Dare County has created something remarkable: a seamless educational pathway that honors traditional craftsmanship while preparing students for meaningful careers. Middle schoolers build boats that become high school projects, which connect to pre-apprenticeships with local manufacturers like Bayliss. Some students follow in the footsteps of parents and grandparents who built boats before them, creating powerful connections across generations.

"We believe education is about providing options for students," explains one educator, capturing the philosophy that drives this approach. Rather than pushing every student toward college, Dare County Schools recognizes the value of trade skills and hands-on learning. From boat building to culinary arts programs, students discover passions that can translate directly into viable careers.

Known as "The Land of the Beginning," Dare County demonstrates how education can both honor heritage and build futures. The partnership between schools, local industry, and community creates educational experiences deeply rooted in place and tradition while providing students with skills relevant in today's economy.

Want to see how communities can transform education through meaningful partnerships? Listen to our full conversation with educators from Dare County Schools and discover how boat building is creating waves of opportunity for the next generation. Share your thoughts on how schools in your community are connecting classroom learning to real-world skills!

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

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

The deep-rooted tradition of Carolina boat building comes alive in this special on-location episode from Manteo, North Carolina. Host Kristina Hebert sits down with John Bayliss, founder and chairman of the Carolina Boat Builder Foundation Tournament, now in its 22nd year, to uncover the remarkable story of how tragedy sparked a community legacy.

What began as an impromptu fundraiser for the children of boat builder Taylor Harrison, who lost his battle with cancer in his mid-40s, has flourished into a thriving charitable foundation. The tournament now provides educational opportunities across three local high schools, with an impressive 91-92% of all funds raised going directly to scholarships. Beyond financial support, the foundation fosters hands-on learning—evidenced by the stunning skiff built entirely by seventh graders that will be auctioned to support future programs.

Bayliss offers rare insights into the evolution of Carolina's legendary boat-building industry, tracing its origins from collaborative six-month charter boat projects to today's sophisticated custom sportfishing yachts requiring years of design and construction. The conversation reveals how the region became one of the world's premier boat-building hubs, where craftsmanship is passed down through generations and builders maintain a friendly competition that drives innovation while preserving tradition.

"We have the opportunity, if we work hard and we're diligent, to be the best in the world at what we do," Bayliss shares, encapsulating the philosophy that has guided his company through decades of creating custom vessels. His reflections on building relationships with clients that transcend business arrangements highlight the personal connections at the heart of this unique industry.

Whether you're fascinated by maritime craftsmanship, community philanthropy, or the inner workings of elite custom yacht building, this conversation captures the spirit of a region where fishing and boat building aren't just industries—they're a way of life.

Subscribe to hear more stories of craftsmanship and community as we celebrate 75 years of the Wards Way legacy.

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

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