Squid Jigs
Squid jigs are lures with rings of fine spikes in place of a normal hook, worked with lifts and pauses to catch squid and cuttlefish from harbours, piers and boats in salt water. We stock wood shrimp squid jigs, including a glow model for night fishing, a glow umbrella jig, and squid and octopus soft baits that copy squid for the sea fish that hunt them. Shrimp jigs come in 9.5g and size 4, the umbrella jig is 10cm and the soft baits run from 6.5cm to 22cm, from $5.99.
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How Squid Jigs Work
Squid attack with their tentacles and wrap their arms around prey. A jig copies a small shrimp or fish, and the spikes catch in the arms when the squid grabs it. Most takes come while the jig sinks, not while you wind it in.
Because the spikes have no barbs, keep steady pressure on the line from the take until the squid is in your hand or net.
How to Fish a Squid Jig
Cast out, let the jig sink and count as it falls. Lift the rod sharply two or three times, then let the jig sink back on a tight line. Repeat this all the way back.
- Watch the line as the jig falls; a pause or a twitch can be a take.
- Change your count until you find the depth where the squid feed.
- Use slow, smooth lifts for cuttlefish, which often hold near the bottom.
When and Where to Find Squid
Squid feed most after dark, and harbour walls, piers and marinas with lights are good places to start. The light draws small fish, and the squid follow them. Calm, clear water is usually easier than rough, stained water.
In many areas squid come close to shore at certain times of year, so check local reports and fishing rules before you go.
Rod and Line for Squid Jigs
A light spinning rod and a small reel handle most shore squid fishing. Thin braid casts far and shows small takes, and a short fluorocarbon leader helps the jig sink naturally.
Squid and Octopus Soft Baits
Many sea predators feed on squid. Our squid and octopus soft baits copy that prey, and you can fish them on a jig head or a sea rig. Glow models help the bait show up in deep or dark water.
Squid Jigs FAQ
When should I fish squid jigs?
Dusk and the hours after dark are often the most productive, especially near lights on harbour walls and piers. Squid can feed in daylight too, but they often stay deeper, so let the jig sink further before you start to lift.
Why use a glow squid jig?
A glow jig is easier for squid to see at night and in deep or cloudy water. Many anglers carry one glow jig and one natural colour, and swap them until one gets more takes.
Can I catch cuttlefish on squid jigs?
Yes. Cuttlefish take the same jigs, but they usually feed close to the bottom. Let the jig sink all the way down, then use slow, short lifts and longer pauses to keep it near the seabed.