Pennsylvania native, Tom Wilson, is the owner of our Croswait Custom Carolina 21, Hull 4. A school teacher September through May, Tom and his family have been “Summering” on Hatteras Island for decades. Even his son, Trent, has grown to love our local waters, especially chasing reds and trout around the flats and sloughs.
After several years of beatings in his Carolina Skiff, Tom concluded it was time to sell and upgrade. While walking the docks at the OBX Marina touring the fleet from Wicked Tuna, Tom and Trent spotted a Croswait Custom Carolina 21 “looking gorgeous.” Tom found us on Facebook and called the next day to make an appointment to get a closer look and go for a demo ride.
“Jordan walked me through the facility showing me the molds and building process before taking a sea trial. During the trial, I was amazed when he ran across a flat where I could literally see a crab pot sitting just below the surface of the water. With the tabs down, it cut right through the chop. I was sold,” Tom reminisced.
Tom met Aaron shortly afterward. The two ran through a list of wants and needs for his ideal rig. Aaron readily agreed to come up with a solution for anchor storage and a swim platform that would compliment the beauty of the boat. They also made some adjustments in electronics and stereo packages to reflect Tom’s requests.
The gelcoat color Tom chose is a deep, sea foam green. She will cause a lot of rubber-necking on the water and the contrasting cover boards will enhance the hue. Tom also selected leaning post with 4 rod holders, console, forward Yeti® 45 console seat, 25-gallon live well and live well pump, helm pad, Bob’s Machine 12″ off-set backplate, and swim platform, an upgraded 150HP Yamaha engine (standard is 115HP), upgraded Baystar hydraulic steering package and second station package with 13.5″ stainless steel Schmitt Marine steering wheels with knobs, upgraded Powertech props, upgraded SEADOG stainless steel pop-up cleats and hardware, 13′ aluminum second station (street legal while trailering), upholstered cushions, ungraded electronics, and custom drop-in anchor locker.
Tom’s hull will be ready leave early in October. At Croswait, we provide owners with frequent pictures and status updates. Tom’s response? “I’m beyond excited to see pictures of my boat coming along. Thanks to the Croswait family and all of the other folks helping to make this buying experience so personal and ideal!” Pleasure is ours, Tom! Thank you for your trust, enthusiasm, and loyalty.
Tom & Trent Wilson fishing off the Outer Banks, Summer 2018.
Croswait Custom Carolina 21, Hull 04, cover boards. Both nonskid and toe rail is formed from the mold.
Croswait Custom Carolina 21, Hull 04, stringers installed.
A deep, sea foam green, Tom’s hull is popped from the mold and passes Aaron’s vigorous inspection with flying colors.