Dare County is recognized by offshore anglers from around the world for its rich boatbuilding and sportfishing heritage. Beginning in the late 1800s with a distinctive vessel called the shad boat, Dare County boat builders have earned a reputation for quality and craftsmanship that is legendary.
Today, many of the world's most accomplished boat builders continue this tradition along the northern Outer Banks and Dare County has evolved into the international center of custom boatbuilding.
-Neal Conoley, who together with his sons John and Jim, wrote Carolina Flare - Outer Banks Boat Building and Sportfishing Heritage
The Dare County Boat Builder's Foundation is pleased to offer scholarships to graduating high school seniors and current college students in Dare County, in addition to an annual gift for the College of the Albemarle in support of its boat building trade programs. For more information on how to apply, visit the scholarships section of our website.