Species
Sea Mullet
Mugil cephalus
Also known as bully mullet · river mullet · hardgut mullet
Tier 1Eating6/10light tackleNSWVICQLDSAWANT
0 waypoints30–50 cm (max 80 cm) typical
Regulations
NSWbag 20
| State | Size | Bag |
|---|---|---|
| NSW | — | 20 |
Regulations change. Always verify with the relevant state fisheries authority before fishing.
Overview: about sea mullet
The big mullet of east-coast estuaries and surf gutters, with autumn schools running north up the NSW and QLD coast forming one of the great annual fishery events. Targeted with bread, dough and small flies in estuaries; also one of the best bait species going for jewfish and flathead.
Biology: Sea Mullet size, diet & habitat
- Habitat
- Beach, Estuary, Inshore
- Typical size
- 30–50 cm (max 80 cm)
- Weight
- 0.6–3 kg
- Depth range
- 0–20 m
- Diet
- algae, detritus, plankton
- Global range
- Cosmopolitan
How to target: Sea Mullet angling strategies
Generally fished with light tackle — match gear to the conditions and the size of fish you expect.
- bread or dough on small hooks in shallow estuary water
- berleyed with bran for fly fishing
- cast nets in tidal creeks
Best season: when to catch sea mullet in Australia
- NSW
- Mar-Jun (annual run)
- QLD
- Mar-Jun
Seasons shift with water temperature and local conditions, so check recent reports before a trip.
Recent community catches: anglers who caught sea mullet
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More information: sea mullet references & sources
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