Squid chains are one of the most effective teasers for tuna, mahi, and billfish. You can buy them ready-made, but building your own is simple, saves money, and lets you customize colors and length.
Materials
- Soft plastic squids: usually 6 to 9 inches, in matching or mixed colors
- Heavy mono leader: often 300 to 400 lb so the chain holds its shape
- Beads or egg sinkers: to keep squids spaced and add a little weight
- Crimps and sleeves sized for the leader
- A swivel at the front
- Optional: a bird teaser at the front for extra splash
Step by step
- Cut the leader to the length you want. Many chains are 6 to 10 feet long with four to eight squids.
- Crimp a loop at the front and attach a swivel.
- Add an optional bird so it sits at the front of the chain.
- Slide on the first squid, followed by a bead or small egg sinker to hold it in place.
- Crimp a stop or use a bead and crimp combination behind each squid to keep it from sliding.
- Space squids evenly, often 10 to 18 inches apart.
- Finish the end with a crimped loop or a final squid.
Colors
Popular combinations include all pink, all green, rainbow, and natural brown or clear. Mixing in one different color at the end can make the chain stand out.
Hooked or hookless?
Most chains are run as hookless teasers. Some anglers add a hooked stinger lure at the end, similar to a daisy chain. See how to rig a daisy chain.
How to run it
Run squid chains close to the boat from the corners or outriggers, where they splash and bubble in the wake. Keep hooked lures nearby to catch fish raised by the chain. See our squid chain trolling setup guide.
Maintenance
Rinse chains after each trip and replace torn squids. Store them stretched out or loosely coiled so they do not tangle.
