Squid Fishing in New England

Squid Fishing in New England

Squid fishing is a popular pastime for many anglers in the New England region, and for good reason – not only is it an exciting and challenging form of fishing, but it can also yield delicious results.

About Squid

Before we get started, let’s talk a bit about squid themselves. Squids are cephalopods, which means they’re part of the same family as octopuses and cuttlefish. They’re found all over the world, in both warm and cold waters, and can range in size from just a few inches to over 60 feet long. In New England, the most common species of squid are the longfin and shortfin squid.

Be Ready to Get Inked

One thing to keep in mind when squid fishing is that it can be a messy and potentially smelly affair. Squid produces ink as a defense mechanism, and if you’re not careful, you can end up covered in the stuff. The boat certainly does.

By the time you’re done, you could be a Clorox® commercial.

To avoid getting inked, try to leave the squid on the line until it has released most of its ink into the water. It’s also a good idea to wear old clothes that you don’t mind getting dirty, as well as a pair of gloves to protect your hands.

The saying is, “if you’re not getting inked, you’re not having fun”!

Squid Jigs

Now, let’s talk about squid fishing. The first thing you’ll need is a good set of squid jigs. Squid jigs are designed to mimic the movements of small baitfish, which squid are known to feed on. They typically feature a series of sharp, barbed hooks attached to a weighted body, and are designed to be jigged up and down in the water to attract squid.

When selecting a squid jig, it’s important to consider the size and color of the jig. In New England, squid jigs are typically between 2.5 and 4 inches in length, and come in a variety of colors, including pink, red, green, and white. Some anglers prefer to use jigs with a more natural coloration, while others find that bright, flashy jigs are more effective.

Fishing for Squid

Once you have your squid jig, it’s time to head out on the water. Squids are typically found in shallower waters, so you’ll want to look for areas with a depth of at least 10-15 feet. Squid are also attracted to light, so it’s a good idea to fish at night or during periods of low light.

To fish with a squid jig, simply cast your line out and let the jig sink to the bottom. Once it’s on the bottom, begin jigging the rod up and down in short, sharp motions. This will cause the jig to dart and dance in the water, which will attract the attention of any nearby squid.

When a squid strikes the jig, you’ll feel a sudden, sharp pull on the line. It’s important to be ready for this, as squid are known for their fast, aggressive strikes. Once you feel the strike, quickly raise the rod tip to set the hook, and begin reeling keeping an even tension on the line. Once you’re to the side of the boat, let the squid let out the ink it’s got stored in its ink pouch, then pull it aboard.

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