Eging is a specialized fishing technique designed specifically for targeting squid, cuttlefish, and other cephalopods using special artificial lures known as egi (squid jigs).


What Is the Eging Technique?

Essentially, eging is a fishing method where an egi squid jig is cast into the sea and retrieved using a specific action that imitates the natural movement of a squid’s prey, triggering the strike.

Unlike other techniques such as spinning or jigging, eging focuses heavily on the correct retrieval and presentation of the lure, making it as attractive as possible to cephalopods.


Basic Elements & Equipment for Eging

Rod & Reel

To practice eging effectively, you will need:

  • Eging Rod: A long rod (usually around 2.40–2.70 m) with a specific parabolic action that allows precise control of the egi and helps absorb the squid’s pulls.
  • Reel: A small spinning reel (size 2500–3000) with smooth line lay and progressive drag, ideal for the thin lines commonly used in eging.
  • Line & Leader: Braided line is preferred, combined with a thin fluorocarbon leader for a more natural presentation in the water.


Egi Squid Jigs — The Heart of the Technique

Egi are specially designed artificial lures that imitate a squid’s natural prey, usually shrimp. They vary in:

  • Size: From smaller sizes (e.g. 1.8–2.5) for light eging, to larger ones (3.0–3.5) for deeper waters or strong currents.
  • Weight & Sink Rate: Determines how quickly the egi reaches the bottom.
  • Colors & Features: Natural or bright colors, with special features such as glow or sound to better attract cephalopods.

Choosing the right egi can make a huge difference in your fishing success.


Shore Eging — Fishing from the Coast

In Greece, eging has become extremely popular, especially during autumn and winter when squid and cuttlefish move closer to the shoreline.

With shore eging, there is no need for a boat. You simply cast your egi from rocks, beaches, or piers and retrieve it with rhythmic, controlled movements to attract cephalopods.


Why Try Eging?

  • Interactive technique: Eging offers an active and exciting fishing experience — not just “cast and wait.”
  • Wide range of equipment: From light shore eging setups to advanced gear and specialized squid jigs.
  • Effective for multiple species: Besides squid, you can also target cuttlefish and even octopus.


Conclusion

The Eging technique, and especially Shore Eging, is one of the most popular and effective methods for catching squid and other cephalopods from the coast. With the right equipment, the proper egi selection, and correct retrieval technique, you can enjoy an active and highly rewarding fishing experience.