Michael Scarboro was “into” canoeing and kayaking before ever thinking about opening the NC Canoe Company.

Michael and wife Lynn had operated Norwood Hardware for almost eight years. With its location in downtown Norwood and less than a mile from Lake Tillery, items related to boating and watersports were staples of their business. In addition, the nearby bodies of water were recreational destinations for the family.

“With our store near Tillery and the Rocky, Uwharrie and Pee Dee rivers, we often enjoyed boating and kayaking trips, paddling away and taking in the breathtaking views,” Michael said.

But it was some fellow canoeists, and one in particular (Landon Stroupe), who sparked his interest in transitioning from canoeing participant to watersports entrepreneur.

“One of the things Landon eagerly talked about was an event called Canoecopia, the largest paddle sports consumer expo in the world,” Scarboro recalled, which resulted in him and Landon making a 15-hour overnight drive to Madison, Wisconsin to attend the event.

“That turned out to be the start of a journey that culminated in the NC Canoe Company,” he said. “I realized what an excellent opportunity it would be to sell canoes at our hardware store by the lake.”

The opportunity has turned out well for Scarboro, who has customers from as far away as Louisiana and Florida, as well as North Carolina.

One of those customers, Doug Edwards, who operates Edwards Outdoor Adventures in Knightdale, speaks highly of Scarboro’s products and services.

“When I need a new canoe or gear, the NC Canoe Company and Mike Scarboro have what I want with a collection of canoes in various materials and styles, and gear available,” Edwards said.

Edwards went on to add that a recent “test drive” of a canoe helped him decide on a purchase.

“To make an educated canoe choice, a short shuttle to Lake Tillery allowed me a test paddle to find the best fit for my style and desires,” he added. “The small-town hospitality and personalized service are a breath of fresh North Carolina outdoor air and make NC Canoe Company my go-to place.”

Scarboro noted that his inventory consists of brands well-known to outdoors enthusiasts.

“We are an official Nova Craft Canoe dealer, and we carry a variety of well-crafted and excellent quality canoes, including canoes made from fiberglass, from plastic and from advanced composite materials,” he said.

In addition to his dealership with Nova Craft, Scarboro also carries paddles made by Hunter & Harris and Bending Branches, as well as apparel and gear from NRS.

And, for those who may be canoe shopping, the business offers various models of canoes suited to the interests of the customer, with customizations such as color, trim and materials also available.

“We carry a variety,” Scarboro said. “Whether you want to paddle calm lakes, winding rivers or whitewater, we can help you find the canoe that fits your needs.”

Need more information?

info@nccanoecompany.com

704-738-3379

Store Location:

132 North Main Street

Norwood, NC 28128