Adelaide’s Secret Spots: Uncovering the Best Squid Fishing Jetties
Adelaide, with its picturesque coastline and proximity to the sparkling waters of St Vincent Gulf, offers a surprising array of opportunities for anglers. While the city is known for its beaches and wine regions, a dedicated band of locals know about its ‘hidden’ gems: the squid fishing jetties. These often-overlooked spots provide fantastic access to some of the best calamari and squid fishing the region has to offer, often just a stone’s throw from the city centre.
Why Squid Fishing in Adelaide?
Squid, particularly the common calamari (Sepioteuthis australis), are abundant in the waters surrounding Adelaide. They are a popular target for their delicious taste and the exciting, acrobatic fight they put up on the line. Fishing for squid from jetties is an accessible and rewarding activity, requiring minimal setup and often yielding great results, especially for those in the know.
The Elusive Jetties: Where to Find Them
While many might think of the larger, more established jetties, the ‘hidden’ aspect comes from the smaller, less frequented ones that offer a more intimate fishing experience. Locations like the smaller jetties in areas such as Largs Bay, Semaphore, and even some of the lesser-known piers along the Lefevre Peninsula can be surprisingly productive. Keep an eye out for older, sometimes rustic structures that might not be on every tourist map. These spots often have less foot traffic, meaning more opportunities for you to snag a squid.
Essential Gear for Jetty Squid Angling
Squid fishing from a jetty is relatively straightforward, but having the right gear makes all the difference. You’ll want a light to medium-light spin rod, typically around 7-8 feet long, with a sensitive tip to detect the subtle bites of squid. A 2500-3000 size reel spooled with 6-10lb braided line is ideal. The key to squid fishing lies in your lures, known as ‘jigs’. These are typically small, colourful, and feature a series of sharp, backward-facing hooks. They come in a vast array of colours and patterns, and experimenting is part of the fun. A small landing net with a long handle is also essential for safely bringing your catch ashore.
Techniques for Success
The most common technique for jetty squid fishing is ‘jigging’. This involves casting your jig out and retrieving it with a series of short, sharp ‘jerks’ of the rod tip, followed by short pauses. The idea is to mimic the movement of small baitfish or crustaceans, enticing the squid to strike. You’ll often feel a distinct ‘thump’ or a sudden weight on your line when a squid attacks. When you feel a bite, lift the rod sharply to set the hooks, then reel in steadily. Avoid pulling too hard, as you don’t want to tear the delicate flesh. Another effective method is to simply cast the jig out and let it drift with the current, giving it occasional twitches.
Prime Times and Conditions
Squid are often more active during periods of low light. Dawn and dusk are prime times, as are overcast days. The changing tides can also influence their activity; the hour or two before and after high tide are often very productive. While squid can be caught year-round, their numbers tend to be higher during the warmer months, from spring through to autumn. Look for areas around weed beds or structures where baitfish might be present, as squid will be hunting there.
Discovering Adelaide’s hidden squid fishing jetties is an adventure in itself. It’s about exploring, experimenting, and enjoying the simple pleasure of fishing by the sea. So, grab your light gear, a handful of jigs, and head out to uncover these secret fishing spots. You might just surprise yourself with the bounty the waters around Adelaide hold.