This paper introduces a humpback whale hunting behavior inspired whale optimization with differential evolution (WODE) technique-based tracking algorithm for the maximum power point tracking in the dynamic as well as the steady-state conditions of a partially shaded solar photovoltaic (PV) system. This "WODE" technique is used for quick and oscillation-free tracking of the global best peak position in a few steps. The unique advantage of this algorithm for maximum power point tracking in partially shaded condition is as, it is free from common and generalized problems of other evolutionary techniques, like longer convergence duration, a large number of search particles, steady-state oscillation, heavy computational burden, etc., which creates power loss and oscillations in output. This hybrid algorithm is tested in MATLAB simulation and verified on a developed hardware of the solar PV system, which consists of multiple peaks in voltage-power curve. Moreover, the tracking ability is compared with the state-of-the-art methods. The satisfactory steady-state and dynamic performances of the new hybrid technique under variable irradiance and temperature levels show the superiority over the state-of-the-art control methods. © 2017 IEEE.