Marlin Magic lures never fail to bring in fish of all kinds, and their lures have been the star of tournaments since the brand first started in 1981. Gary Eoff, the creator, and lure-maker, keeps his team around including Captain Marlin Parker to continuously innovate their famous handmade trolling lures. Kevin Hibbard’s story recently launched in social media, spreading news about a new lure that has a curious origin.
Kevin Hibbard, an avid marlin fisherman and captain, was looking for a new lure in 2007 to try out for a tournament and wanted something that was wider than the Marlin Magic Pear that was available at the time. Gary Eoff designed several prototypes for him, but one stood out. This new lure took in a fish that was 911 pounds and worth $98,000! This lure was named the “Captain’s Choice.”
This lure became one of Kevin’s most beloved lures to date, and he kept using it after its conception over the next 15 years. The Captain’s Choice also served Marlin Parker well, helping him catch the winning Marlin in the Bisbee’s Black and Blue Tournament, one of the most well-known and highest payout prize sportfishing tournament in the world.
Kevin eventually had to retire his Captain’s Choice that was made in 2007, as one of its eyes became filled with water and never ran the same after. He was devastated as it was one of his favorite lures.
Finally, in 2020, Kevin and Gary talked about this lure decided to bring it back for Kevin. They measured Kevin’s OG Captain’s Choice and remade the lure for him. Kevin was surely elated and could not wait to get her skirted and rigged, and the next morning the lure had a 300 lb. Blue Marlin crash onto her. Kevin and Gary wanted to share this lure with other anglers to experience its amazing performance. Gary dedicated this revamped lure after Kevin Hibbard and named it "The Hibby.”
The Hibby’s story proves that Marlin Magic lures are truly special and reliable, and each of them carry on the legacy of Gary Eoff’s unmatched handmaking skills. These meticulously crafted lures make a wonderful addition to any lure collection. You can find the Marlin Magic Captain Choice “Hibby” Signature Series Lures here. Supply is limited, so get yours now.
