SQUID CHARTERS
Southern calamari are found over the weed and reef of both bays all year. They are the best bait in the sea and even better on the plate.
Calamari, All Year
Squid, or southern calamari, are a highly sought-after species right across Port Phillip and Western Port. They live in most patches of weed and reef in both bays, all year round, and the big ones show up from September to December. Mal spends a lot of time on them, so when you come aboard the freshest bait in the bay is already sorted.
They are great fun on a jig, and they make excellent bait for snapper, gummy sharks and kingfish. Mostly, though, we catch them because they taste fantastic. Mal will always be in touch to let you know where your charter is departing from, Carrum or Hastings, depending on where the squid are.
Come prepared for around five hours on the water and be warned: you may end up covered in ink. There is a toilet on board. Read Mal's guide to catching squid before you come.
Duration
Up to 5 hours on the water
Capacity
No minimum, up to 8 passengers
Season
All year, biggest September to December
Departure
Carrum or Hastings
On the Weed Beds
Squid share their ground with some of the best-eating fish in the bay, so the esky rarely comes home with squid alone.
Southern Calamari
The target. Caught on jigs over weed and reef in both bays, all year. Big ones from September to December.
King George Whiting
Same weed beds, same tide. A whiting rig over the side while the jigs are out is standard practice.
Snapper
Fresh calamari is the best snapper bait there is. In season, a morning on the squid often turns into an afternoon on the reds.
Flathead
On the sand between the weed, flathead are a reliable bonus and the makings of great fish and chips.
The Schedule
- 1
Meet at the boat ramp at Carrum or Hastings
- 2
Hit the open waters of Port Phillip or Western Port Bay
- 3
Drift the weed beds and reef edges with jigs
- 4
Change location if required to find the squid
- 5
Head back home with a bag of calamari
Departure Time
5:00 AM in season
6:00 AM other times
Check your schedule when booking.
What to Bring
- Sunglasses and hat
- Drink bottles of water
- Sunscreen lotion
- Packed lunch and snacks
- Older clothes you do not mind getting ink on
- Esky in your car (we bag your catch)
Fishing Licence
A valid Victorian fishing licence is required unless you are exempt. Available online at vfa.vic.gov.au.
Common Questions
When is the best time for squid?
They are in the bays all year, which makes squid a great choice when other species are quiet. The biggest calamari show up from September to December.
Will I get covered in ink?
Quite possibly. Wear older clothes. Mal will show you how to handle them to keep most of it in the water.
Do you clean the squid?
We have them on ice straight away to keep them in the best condition and bag them for you at the ramp.
Do I need my own jigs?
No. All rods, reels, jigs and bait are provided.
What is the minimum age for children?
In the bays, we recommend children aged 5 and above. Squid on a jig is an easy and exciting first catch.
Do I have to wear a life jacket?
Life jackets are on board for everyone. In the bays it is your choice once we are under way; through the heads they are compulsory.
Ready to Fish?
Book a seat or take the whole boat. Calamari for dinner is a very good reason to get up early.
Bay Charter · Squid
From $200 per person
- All rods, jigs and bait included
- Up to 5 hours on the bay
- Catch iced and bagged on board
No minimum group size. Book for yourself or take the whole boat for up to 8 people for $1,550.
Want the lot? See the Mixed Bag charter →