When is the best time to catch red mullet?

The productive window for red mullet runs May–October. May–July is the spawning period; releasing your catch during these months is strongly advised.

What water temperature does red mullet feed in?

Red mullet is most active between 10 and 22 °C. Outside that band its feeding rate drops off.

The baits that stand out: Ragworm, Lugworm, Shrimp, Small squid strips.

Common methods: Bottom rig, light surfcasting.

Mullus barbatus

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Active periodSpawning period — release what you catch

In the Mediterranean, the best shore and inshore fishing is from late spring to autumn (May–October), when the fish move onto shallow sandy and muddy ground.
In winter, red mullet move deeper and are rarely caught from shore.
Calm, clear days are best. After storms, wait until the water settles.
In the UK and northern Europe, the related striped red mullet shows up along southern coasts mainly in late summer and early autumn.

Red mullet (Mullus barbatus): a steep, almost vertical head profile and a plain first dorsal fin. Prefers muddy and sandy ground.
Striped red mullet (Mullus surmuletus): a less steep head, a striped first dorsal fin and often yellow lines along the flank. Prefers rocky and mixed ground.
Both have two long barbels under the chin, which they use to search the seabed for food.

Mediterranean: sandy bays, harbour entrances and soft ground from Spain and Italy to Greece, Turkey and Egypt.
Canary Islands and Madeira: sandy patches between rocks.
Southern UK and France: summer beaches and harbours, mostly striped red mullet.

A light two-hook flapper rig with small hooks (size 8–10) and fine snoods (0.16–0.20 mm).
Use just enough lead to hold bottom, and drag it slowly now and then to leave a trail in the sediment.
The bite is a series of fast, gentle taps. Wait for a steady pull before lifting.
Red mullet is one of the most prized eating fish in the Mediterranean. Pan-fry it whole and fresh. Check local size limits, which exist in many countries.

When is the best time to catch red mullet?: The productive window for red mullet runs May–October. May–July is the spawning period; releasing your catch during these months is strongly advised.
What water temperature does red mullet feed in?: Red mullet is most active between 10 and 22 °C. Outside that band its feeding rate drops off.
What bait works for red mullet?: The baits that stand out: Ragworm, Lugworm, Shrimp, Small squid strips.
How do you fish for red mullet?: Common methods: Bottom rig, light surfcasting.