Squid Fishing Basics

Equipment

• Fluorescent squid jigs (red, green, orange best) ($5 each)

• Fishing rod & reel with 10# test line ($25 and up)

• Strong light with clamps and battery ($75)

• 1-gallon bucket

License

Shellfish license required over 15-year-old (see WDFW pamphlet for fees - approx. $15).

Where/When to Go

Public saltwater docks around Seattle & Tacoma—some have lighting. Check the internet for locations. Some docks have lighting and electrical outlets. Best fishing October thru January when squid are spawning. Good docks have lots of people fishing during the best part of the season. Drive there and see how they are doing that day.

Technique - Daytime

Usually best during incoming and slack tides. Cast jig out and let it sink to the bottom, lift rod tip and lower as you take in line. When you feel extra weight lifting and/or see the line twitch, start constant reeling until the squid is at your feet. Lift lure and turn it upside down over the bucket and the squid will fall off—no barbs on the lure. Usually, squid come in schools, so when you catch one, cast again quickly before they leave.

Technique - After Dark

Attach a sliding float to the line to help you see the line, then tie 2 or 3 jigs in tandem about 1 foot apart with the heaviest jig at the bottom. Shine a light on jigs before lowering to help them glow. Fish near where the light stream is used. If you don’t bring your own, fish near someone that has lights. Lower jigs to the bottom and periodically lift 1-2 feet to see if you feel the weight of squid wrapping around the jig. Once you feel extra weight, reel, flip in your bucket, and go back down for more.

Dining

Several good videos on YouTube on how to clean and cook your squid.