Use this simple swordfish rig to catch a big broadbill.
Tony DiGiulian
Squid make up a good portion of a swordfish's diet, so it makes sense that a rigged squid is one of the most popular swordfish baits. To make this swordfish squid, start by crimping a J-hook (size 9/0 to 12/0) onto your leader and leave a 2.5-inch tag end sticking off the back of the crimp. Tutorial by FishTrack pro Tony DiGiulian.Photos by Charlie Levine
Using a rigging needle and some waxed floss, attach the squid's head to the mantle with a stitch or two. Secure the stitch with a half-hitch followed by an overhand knot.
Hold the hook over the squid to determine where you want the hook point.
The tag end of the mono will extend to the tip of the mantle, in between the wings. This bit of mono adds some stiffness to the top end of the bait to help you get a solid hook set.
Insert the hook into the mantle and pull the hook point back through the squid. You want the hook point about halfway down the mantle.
Pull on the hook so the eye of the hook enters the squid. The trick is to gently pull on the hook until that tag end enters into the squid. Then you can position the tag end up into the tip of the squid's mantle.
When the tag end is in position at the tip of the mantle, you can pull the hook back into position with the point of the hook extending out of the middle of the bait. When the hooks is position, use your rigging floss to secure the hook in place with a stitch.
Use the rigging floss to secure the eye of the hook in place as well. One stitch locked in place with an overhand knot and half-hitch will do the job.
Slide a glow-in-the-dark skirt onto the leader and place it over the top of the squid, but not covering the hook point. Secure the skirt in place with two stitches, one on each side of the skirt.
This squid is ready to head down into the depths to tempt a hungry swordfish. Make sure to check the latest water conditions at FishTrack.com before you head offshore.
