Red Mullet Fishing
Red mullet: way of life
Red mullet (surmullet) is a small bottom fish with distinctive barbels under the lower lip. It uses the barbels to probe the seabed for worms, crustaceans, and other small organisms. Fish hold on sandy or sandy-silt bottom near rocky areas, in bays, and in lagoons.
Where and when to fish
Prime season is summer and early autumn, when red mullet holds in the shallows. Early in the morning fish move to very shallow water. From a boat, fishing is done at greater depth — 5–20 m where there is fresh current. Schools are mobile as they search for food.
What triggers them
A bottom rig with natural bait is the primary method: marine worm, mussel, pieces of crustacean. Red mullet does not chase moving lures, so the bait is left to rest on the bottom. Small hooks and light line are key.
Tips
- Place the bait on the bottom and leave it still — red mullet seeks stationary food.
- A thin leader 0.14 mm and small hook increase hookups.
- Look for the sand-to-rock transition — a typical feeding zone.
- Fresh bait works best: change it every 20–30 minutes.
- Multiple traces on one rig improve your chances when fish are spread out.
Recommended gear
Light bottom tackle: rod 2.7–4.0 m, monofilament 0.18–0.22 mm, leader 0.14–0.16 mm. Hooks #10–14. Bottom sinker 20–50 g. For boat fishing — a short side rod with light terminal tackle.
