Squid Jigs
Squid jigs, or egi, for catching squid from wharves, rocks and boats around New Zealand. Our range is led by Yamashita, alongside Daiwa and Shimano, in sizes and colours for all conditions.
Squid jigs sink slowly and dart when twitched, mimicking a prawn or small fish. Fish them on a light spin rod with fine braid, and keep the ink off your deck with an ikejime tool from our terminal tackle extras. Fresh squid also makes outstanding snapper bait rigged on circle hooks.
See the latest colours at our Grey Lynn concept store, or order online for fast, tracked delivery across New Zealand.
Frequently asked questions about squid jigs
What size squid jig should I use?
Squid jigs are sized by numbers such as 2.0, 2.5, 3.0 and 3.5, which relate to length and sink rate. Size 2.5 to 3.0 is the most versatile for squid around New Zealand wharves and shallow weed beds, while 3.5 suits bigger squid, deeper water and wind. Smaller jigs sink slower and suit shallow water and smaller squid. Many anglers carry a few sizes to match the depth, wind and size of squid around.
When and where is the best squid fishing?
Squid are often most active at dawn, dusk and at night, especially around wharf lights that attract baitfish. Shallow bays with weed beds, reef edges and calm, clear water are productive, and many anglers fish from wharves and boats at anchor. Calm conditions and a moving tide help. Keep an eye out for squid ink on wharves, which shows where others have been catching them.
What colour squid jig works best?
Natural colours such as brown, olive and prawn patterns work well in clear water and daylight, while bright orange, pink and glow jigs suit murky water, low light and night fishing. Many squid jigs have a reflective under-layer, such as red, gold or rainbow foil, that changes how they look in different light. Carry a few colours and change regularly until you find what works.
How do I fish a squid jig?
Cast the jig out and let it sink for a few seconds, then give the rod two or three sharp upward jerks so the jig darts, before letting it sink again on a semi-slack line. Squid usually grab the jig as it falls or pauses. When you feel weight, wind steadily without stopping, keeping constant pressure so the squid stays on the barbless prongs. Use a net for big squid.
How do I avoid getting covered in squid ink?
Keep the squid in the water for a few seconds to let it squirt most of its ink, then lift it out pointing away from you and others. Use an ikejime tool or spike to quickly dispatch it, which also keeps the flesh fresh and stops it inking. Have a bucket ready to drop squid straight into. Rinse the deck or wharf afterwards so the ink does not stain.
What rod and line are best for squid fishing?
A light spin rod around 7 to 8 feet, paired with a 2500 size spin reel and fine braid around PE 0.6 to 0.8, is ideal for squid fishing. Light braid casts small jigs further and lets you feel the subtle weight of a squid. Add a 1 to 2 metre fluorocarbon leader of around 8 to 15 lb. Dedicated egi rods have a responsive tip for working the jig. Keep the drag fairly light.