Squid are one of the most reliable and fun targets in Aussie saltwater, and they’re also top-tier table fish. They hit jigs hard, fight with quick bursts, and turn up around plenty of easy-access land-based spots.
In Australian waters, squid are common around southern and south-eastern coasts, especially in bays, harbours, inshore reefs and weed beds. You’ll usually find them over broken ground, ribbon weed, seagrass and kelp edges from shallow water out to a few dozen metres. Jetties, rock walls and reefy points are all worth a look.
Squid hunt by sight and smash small baitfish, prawns and other little squid with fast ambush attacks. They like to hover over weed or structure, then dart out and grab prey. Feeding is often best when bait is active and the water is clean enough for them to see a jig properly.
Tide changes usually fish best, especially the run-in and run-out when water movement gets them hunting along weed edges and reef patches. Low light around dawn, dusk and even overcast periods can really fire them up, though clear bright days still produce if the water is clean. Light to moderate wind is ideal because you can work a jig properly, while strong wind makes it harder to stay in touch and kills lure control. Small swell can help wash food across shallow reef and weed, but too much swell dirties the water and pushes squid off the edge.
A light egi outfit around 7–8 foot with a 2500-size reel, light braid and a fluorocarbon leader is spot on for most squid work. Size 2.5 to 3.5 jigs cover most situations, with natural colours in clear water and brighter patterns when it’s dull or dirty. Long pauses, slow lifts and keeping the jig near weed tops usually gets the bites.
Squid can change colour in a flash, which is handy when they’re hunting, hiding or getting cranky beside the net.