Looking out at the quiet, moonlit waters of the Gulf of Mexico, it’s impossible to know what’s on the line, other than that it’s big. Word has spread around the deep-sea-fishing boat, and now a crowd has gathered on either side of you. You pull the fishing pole back and guide whatever is snagged on the other end of the line nearer and nearer toward the halo of light illuminating the large boat. The splashes gradually become louder, and then a large lobster-red tail emerges from the water. A few fellow fishermen help pull the creature onto the boat, and proudly hold it up for the crowd—a 38-pound cubera snapper.

There are countless deep-sea-fishing tales like this one to be told at Hubbard’s Marina. During its many day or night fishing trips, its crew and guest fishermen board the US Coast Guard–certified vessels for excursions into the Gulf to reel in fish of all sizes, including large sharks and adult mermen. They also captain sunset cruises, dolphin-watching cruises, kayak tours, and even take to the streets during segway tours.