How to Get Started Squid Fishing in New England with Captain Max Dispoto

As the water warms and the saltwater season kicks off, there's one fishery that signals the start of spring in New England: squid. Whether you're on a boat, a pier, or even a public dock, squid fishing is one of the most accessible and exciting ways to get back on the water after a long winter. In this guide, Captain Max Dispoto of East Coast Charters breaks down everything you need to know to get started.

Why Squid Fishing?

Squid are some of the first arrivals to our local waters in spring, and there are plenty of reasons to target them:

• ✅ Accessible: Fish from shore, a headboat, or your own boat—no long runs required.

• ✅ Abundant: A sustainable and delicious option for the dinner table.

• ✅ Multipurpose: Freeze them for bait later in the season.

• ✅ Fun: A great social trip with friends after months of cabin fever.

Essential Squid Fishing Gear

You don’t need much to get started. If you already fish inshore for stripers or albies, you’re halfway there.

✅ Rod & Reel Setup

• Rod: Shimano Talavera Type J 6'0" Light

• Reel: Shimano Spheros 5000 (or 3000/4000 if it balances well)

• Line: 20 lb PowerPro Super Slick V2 in Moonshine—it glows under UV light, making it easier to see at night.

Max zip-ties UV light strips to his T-top and uses underwater lights to attract squid and light up his glowing braid.

What Makes a Great Squid Jig?

Unlike traditional lures, squid jigs use prongs—not hooks—to latch onto the tentacles. There are many shapes and colors, but the standout this season is the Shimano Sephia Clinch Jig.

⭐ Why Max Swears by the Shimano Sephia Clinch:

• Built-in Flash Boost Technology: A suspended reflective plate shimmers constantly, mimicking lifelike prey.

• Ideal for day or night fishing—light reflection triggers instinctive strikes.

• Slim profile and variety of colors for matching conditions.

🎣 Pro Tip: Fish it alongside an older “confidence jig” on a high-low rig to build trust—then watch the Sephia Clinch out-fish everything else.

How to Rig for Squid: The High-Low Setup

The traditional setup uses a high-low rig with two jigs and a sinker. Here’s the step-by-step:

✳️ Components:

• Small swivel (to prevent line twist)

• 8–12 lb fluorocarbon leader

• Two dropper loops (12–18 inches apart)

• Bottom loop for sinker

🧵 How to Tie Dropper Loops:

1. Double the leader line and twist 4–5 times.

2. Pass the end of the loop through the middle and pull tight.

3. Keep the loops small to prevent tangles and improve jig action.

Alternate colors on your jigs to see what works best that night. Start with one solid and one translucent.

Squid Jigging Technique

No matter where you're fishing—pier, dock, or boat—the technique is simple:

1. Drop your rig to the bottom.

2. Lift slowly to imitate lifelike movement.

3. Sometimes, add a slow retrieve to explore different depths.

🎯 Key Tip: Don’t set the hook! Squid bites feel like extra weight or a soft tick. Just reel up slowly to avoid tearing the jig from their tentacles.

Casting with a Single Jig

Max also uses a single Sephia Clinch Jig on a fluorocarbon leader for a more active approach. This method works great when squid are high in the water column and visible in the lights.

• Rod: Light 7' Rod

• Reel: 3000-5000 size inshore reel

• Technique: Cast, let sink (count it down), and twitch back like a walk-the-dog retrieve.

This method mimics traditional lure fishing and is especially deadly when squid are up top.

Where to Go Squid Fishing

You don’t need secret intel to get started. Try public docks, piers, or bridges in your area. Fish the night lights. Respect others’ spots. And most importantly—get out there and explore!