Squid Jigs Buyers Guide: How to Choose a Squid Jig and Catch More Squid

Squid fishing is fun, easy to get into, and the reward is great eating or top-quality bait. The key piece of gear is the squid jig: a prawn-shaped squid lure with rows of fine, barbless spikes that catch the squid's tentacles when it grabs on.

This guide covers how to choose squid jigs by size, sink rate and colour, plus simple tips on how to catch squid. Browse our full range of squid jigs.

Squid jig sizes

Squid jigs are usually sold in sizes such as 2.0, 2.5, 3.0 and 3.5. The bigger the number, the bigger and generally heavier the jig. As a rough guide:

• Smaller jigs suit shallow water, calm conditions and smaller squid.
• Mid-size jigs (around 2.5 to 3.0) are the most versatile and a good place to start for most squid fishing.
• Larger jigs suit deeper water, windy days, current and bigger squid.

Sink rate

Many squid jigs come in different sink rates, often labelled as shallow, standard or deep. Choose one that lets you work the jig just above the weed or bottom where squid are feeding. Shallow jigs suit weed beds in skinny water, while deeper-sinking jigs help in deep water or current. Sink rates vary between brands, so check the packaging.

Best squid jig colours

There's no single best colour, and squid can be fussy from day to day, so it pays to carry a few. A common rule of thumb:

• Natural colours (browns, greens, greys) often work well in clear water and bright conditions.
• Brighter colours (orange, pink, red) often stand out better in dirty water, low light or overcast days.
• Glow or foil finishes can help at dawn, dusk and at night.

If one colour isn't working, change it before you change spots.

How to catch squid

Where to fish. When working out how to fish for squid, start with location. Look for weed beds, seagrass and reef edges, plus jetties and wharves, especially where lights shine on the water at night.

When to fish. Dawn and dusk are often productive, and squid are active around lights at night. Calm, clear water usually fishes best.

How to work the jig:

1. Cast out and let the jig sink close to the weed or bottom.
2. Give the rod a couple of sharp lifts to make the jig dart upwards.
3. Pause and let the jig sink again. Squid often grab it on the pause.
4. Repeat, winding in the slack as you go.
5. When you feel weight, keep steady pressure and wind smoothly. Squid jigs have no barbs, so don't give slack.

Lift squid carefully out of the water, and point them away from you and your gear to avoid a spray of ink.

Squid fishing FAQs

What rod and reel do I need for squid fishing?

A light to medium spin rod with a small to mid-size spinning reel works well for most squid fishing. Light braid with a fluorocarbon leader helps with casting and feel.

Can you catch squid from the shore?

Yes. Rock ledges, beaches near weed beds, and jetties are all popular land-based squid spots.

Are there rules on catching squid?

Bag limits and closures vary by state and area, so check your local fisheries rules before you go.

Ready to choose? Browse our full range of squid jigs.