Hey, you ever heard of a squid jigging machine? Now, I know it might sound fancy, but it’s actually just a tool to make catching them squids easier, you see. These machines, well, they do all the jiggin’ for you! No more standing around, waving your arm up and down all night – it’s all done by the machine. Folks out there on the water use this when they’re out in them big boats looking for squids. And let me tell you, squids don’t come up easy; you need a bit of smart gear for it.
Why Use a Squid Jigging Machine?
Now, first things first – why bother with a machine, you might ask? Well, the thing is, squids, they’re quick little fellas, and they love the deep waters, especially when it’s all dark and quiet. These jigging machines have, oh, maybe 20 to 25 jigs hanging from each line! Imagine trying to jig that many lines by hand! So, this machine can go up and down all night without getting tired, pulling up them squids like it’s nobody’s business.
How Do They Work?
The trick here is the lights. Squid jigging boats have these big, bright overhead lights, lighting up the water all around. Squids, they’re curious creatures and love the light. So, they swim up, hangin’ around under the boat, and that’s where the jigs come in. These lures look like little prawns, pink or purple mostly, and the squids can’t resist. The machine moves the lines up and down, just like you’d jig by hand, but way faster and stronger. And since these jigs don’t have barbs, the squid can be caught, released if needed, or kept for a nice catch.
Best Times to Use Squid Jigging Machines
Now, you don’t just take these machines out anytime you please. Squids, you see, come out at night. Some folks say it’s like a magic hour just after sunset when them squids start showing up. So, you go out there, turn on the big lights, and wait for the squids to come swarming in. And with the right machine, well, you’re catching one after another. Timing is key, though – go too early, and you won’t see much, but go at the right time, and you’re set for a good night of jigging.
Setting Up Your Squid Jigging Machine
Setting these machines up ain’t rocket science. You just need to make sure all the jigs are tied on properly, usually about 20-25 jigs, like I said. Sizes matter here, too – a lot of folks go for 2.5 to 4.0 sizes on them jigs. These numbers, they’re talking about the length, not the weight, so don’t get mixed up. The bigger jigs, like the 4.0, they sink faster, so if you’re out in deep waters, maybe go for the bigger ones. And let’s not forget – check your lights. Bright lights make all the difference out there.
Choosing the Right Jig for Your Machine
Now, not all jigs are the same. The ones that work best for squids are shaped like prawns – don’t ask me why, but squids just love ‘em. You’ll see most folks using pink, purple, and even green jigs. These colors work real nice, especially with them bright lights over the water. And here’s a tip: stick to the cheaper plastic ones if you’re just starting out. They work fine, and you won’t feel bad if you lose one to a big catch or a snag.
Where to Find Squid Jigging Machines
Now, these machines ain’t something you pick up at the grocery store. No, you gotta go to a specialty shop or look online. Places like eBay have ‘em, but you gotta know what you’re looking for. Some folks even buy secondhand ones if they’re just getting into the squid jigging game. Just make sure it’s in good working condition – these things are pricey, but if you’re serious about squid jigging, it’s worth it. And don’t forget to get extra jigs and good quality lines to go with it.
Squid Jigging Tips and Tricks
- Time it right: Best right after sunset and into the early evening.
- Use bright lights: The lights bring the squids closer to your boat.
- Pick the right jigs: Prawn-style jigs in pink, purple, or green work wonders.
- Adjust jig sizes: Go for 2.5 to 4.0 sizes depending on depth and current.
- Check your machine: Make sure everything’s working right before you set out.
And there you have it, a good ol’ guide to the squid jigging machine! Ain’t nothing too complicated, but let me tell ya, if you’re serious about catching squids, it’s a game-changer. Now go out there, get yourself set up, and maybe you’ll come back with a boatload of them squids!
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