Tag: ■ BY CAPT. VAN HUBBARD

Whidden’s Centennial: Like the good ole days

Saturday evening was wet, but the Whidden’s 100 anniversary fish fry was great. It was wonderful to see locals of all ages gathered to celebrate Whidden’s Marina’s century celebration. The Boca...

Mackerel are nice if you ice them, and eat them fresh

September 18, 2026
VAN HUBBARD
Columns, Sports & Outdoors

I’m about to complete another circle around the sun. Our days are getting shorter and my body says I’m getting older. I’m excited about our upcoming season change and looking forward to getting...

A business incubator that gave this captain a start back in 1981

Whidden’s Marina has given more to our traditions and heritage than we can ever repay. It provided the home port for generations of guides and clients. It’s the center of our local fishing...

Taking a child fishing and teaching respect for the outdoors

Consider your earliest memories, such as that first fish with your father or grandfather. Family memories created as a child are imprinted deep, lasting a lifetime. Early memories watching elders...

Fishing the heat; the back country challenges with lures

June 19, 2026
VAN HUBBARD
Columns

I advise early-morning or evening trips to avoid the heat. You can still catch fish during the day if you can take the sun. Shade helps! Our tarpon fishing has been all over the place. We’ve...

Fish stocks, growth and sharing the water

I remember as kids it was always “not me” when parents asked who did something. We are so busy blaming the other side and fighting over fish stocks, we can’t see the forest for the trees. Are fish...

The contrast between the large silver fish and the clear blue Gulf

I was able to enjoy up-close observations at this year’s tarpon fishing events. Smitty from Hudson’s was my teammate on our committee boat. Capt. Charley Coleman was generous and donated his 23...

Season begins: Ladies Day Tarpon Tournament this weekend

The Lady’s Day Tarpon Tournament is a big deal. Mother’s Day is an even bigger deal. Every one of us is here because of our mothers. Fathers are necessary but moms make it happen. Let’s all take...

Special time: Drone spoons, windy days and changing conditions

Spring fishing is peaking and our weather will continue to heat up. This is the short window to enjoy our transitional fishing. It was a colder winter and the fish are hungry. Summer’s heat will...

Van Hubbard: Mackerel, both Spanish and king, best in icy coolers

March leads us into our spring season. We did enjoy some spring-like weather last month, but each one should be weaker now. Spring has officially arrived, and I’m excited about all the fishing...