Squid Fishing

Cool, calm evening on the island and looking for something to do between January and April?  Head over to the Okaloosa Island pier with your favorite fishing rod and a few dollars to purchase a squid rig for jigging.  Yes, I said squid.  Every winter here on the island the squid come to the lights on the pier to feed after dark.

I went out recently to see squid fishing in action. Upon approach I would have thought the pier was deserted.

I followed this guy out to where the action was...

Brian Higgins was fishing and advised that fishermen can jig the squid rig up and down off the bottom.  When the squid attack the lures they get hooked.

The pier takes on an entirely different mood on a cold, winter night.

In addition to watching people reel in squid, it was fun to just take in the textures and sounds of the pier.

Below you will see a squid that Brian caught. It is fascinating to watch them change colors before your eyes...from red to green to clear.

The squid are easy to clean and fantastic table fare.  Simply cut into pieces, toss in a little flour along with your favorite seasonings, and throw them in the fryer.

If you are thinking this rig is made with a straw...you are right. Brian had especially good luck with glow in the dark tubing the night I was on the pier.

The pier attendant was making these squid rigs when I arrived at the pier. 

If this sounds fun, head on out to the Okaloosa Island Pier to enjoy fishing or just to watch.