What happens when you combine big boats, big fish, friendly competition, and a community that lives for the water? You get the 2026 Pirates Cove Billfish Tournament! On this episode of The Wards Way Podcast, we’re right in the middle of it.

Host Kristina Hebert sits down with Lisa Howell and Captain Marty at Pirates Cove to talk about the first day of fishing, the strategy behind the tournament, the incredible competition, and what makes this event such a special part of the Outer Banks community. Whether you're a serious offshore fisherman, a boating enthusiast, or simply someone who loves the marine industry, this episode gives you an inside look at what makes the Pirates Cove Billfish Tournament more than just a fishing tournament.

It's competition. It's tradition. It's community. It's life on the water.

#wardsway #piratescove #podcast #sportsfish

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

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

Seawater is everywhere, but fresh water determines how far a boat can truly go. Filmed at the 2026 Dare County Boat Builders Tournament, Host Kristina Hebert sits down with John Gabriel, Sales Director at FCI Watermakers, to explore how reverse osmosis systems transform seawater into clean, usable fresh water and give boaters greater independence from bottled water and dockside supplies. John explains how today’s systems support drinking, cooking, cleaning, spot-free washdowns, and everything from small recreational boats to large-scale marine operations, while offering varying levels of automation to meet each vessel’s needs. Host Kristina Hebert and John also discuss American boatbuilding, the Carolinas’ multigenerational craftsmanship, and how smarter system integration is expanding cruising range while reducing plastic waste.

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

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

Host Kristina Hebert sits down with Captain Kirk during the Dare County Boat Builders Tournament 2026 to explore what competitive offshore sportfishing really looks like beyond the weigh-in. From early mornings and meticulous preparation to the strategy, teamwork, and split-second decisions that define tournament fishing, Captain Kirk shares what it takes to compete at the highest level. Together, they discuss the Outer Banks' unique advantage, the economic impact of sportfishing tournaments, and the technology that helps today's teams perform offshore. The conversation offers an inside look at the dedication, resilience, and passion that continue to drive America's sportfishing community.

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

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