Preheat oven to 475 degrees. Place potatoes in a large bowl and cover with hot tap water. Let soak for 10 minutes.
Drizzle the oil onto a rimmed 18 by 13-inch baking sheet (preferably non-stick), tilt to evenly coat.
Drain potatoes well then evenly spread out onto several layers of paper towels. Spread more paper towels over top and pat and press to dry thoroughly.
Evenly sprinkle oiled baking sheet with 3/4 salt and 1/4 tsp pepper (if oil pooled in areas then tilt pan to spread even before salting).
Spread potatoes into an even layer onto prepared baking sheet leaving space between them. Cover baking sheet tightly with aluminum foil. Bake 5 minutes, then remove foil and continue to bake until spotty golden brown, about 15 minutes.
Scrape potatoes loose from pan with a thin metal spatula then turn to opposite side. Spread even. Continue to bake until fries are golden, about 7 - 10 minutes longer. Spread potatoes on paper towels to drain. Season with additional salt if desired.
Notes
Method adapted from Cook's Illustrated (I didn't leave peels on or cut into wedges).