Keith Fraser of Alltackle requested I explain my "easy" procedure for rigging squid. Ballyhoo may be the primary rigged bait trolled in the mid-Atlantic, but I ask, "How many ballyhoo are found in the stomach of tuna or any other pelagic caught off the mid-Atlantic?" Do not get me wrong, ballyhoo are my number one rigged bait. However, squid are in the stomach of almost every fish caught. It stands to reason that squid should have a dedicated place in our spreads. Most pelagic are going to eat squid when properly presented. Then why are squid not in most trolling spreads? The answer is easy, they are a pain to rig in the conventional method. I despise the time consuming process of sitting in the pit each evening sewing up squid for the next day. This caused me to come up with my own quick rigging method. I am not saying there is anything wrong with the time proven rigging technique of using a float, crimp, wax thread and sewing needle. However, the rigging method I am about to explain is quick and produces results. Also, I find that by using a sinker in place of the float, the squid runs under water producing better results when targeting tuna and does not wash out as when skipping around on the surface. There are times you may want a squid trolled on the surface, but if that presentation is not required in your trolling application, give my method a try.
Try to obtain local squid caught in the mid-Atlantic region, it is meaty, unlike the thin flesh of California squid. Although, a couple boxes of frozen California squid can be used and is one of the least expensive baits that can be carried onboard.

I like to use a short shank hook appropriate for the squid's size. Typically a 7/0 to 9/0 fits the bill. Begin constructing the rig by sliding a 1/2- to 3/4-ounce egg sinker onto the leader and crimp on the hook. Crimp a wind-on swivel to the other end of the leader. The rig is complete! That's all there is to it with the exception of a piece of rubber band. Before rigging the squid, take a measurement so the egg sinker will be located just inside the squid when the hook is inserted in the head. The measurement needs to be correct and assure the squid is straight once rigged. A piece of the rubber band is tied around the leader tightly to prevent the egg sinker from sliding down the leader.Take a piece of number twelve wire and using pliers, bend a very small hook into the end just large enough to hook the swivel. This is used to fish the leader through the squid.