Minimum Landing Size 42cm
The grey mullet is a common and fascinating fish species found in UK waters. Renowned for its elusive nature and distinct appearance, the grey mullet holds a special place in the hearts of anglers, spearfishers, and marine enthusiasts alike. In this guide, we’ll explore the characteristics, varieties, behaviour, habitat, and distribution of the grey mullet in the UK.
Characteristics of the Grey Mullet
The grey mullet, known scientifically as Mugilidae, is a medium-sized fish that can often be identified by its streamlined body, silvery-grey scales, and slightly forked tail. On closer inspection, you’ll notice their blunt head and small, downturned mouth, which are well-adapted for grazing on algae and detritus on the seafloor.
Typically, grey mullets range in size from 30 to 60 centimetres, with larger specimens occasionally reaching up to 75 centimetres. Their scales are large and thick, providing them with some protection against predators. The dorsal fin is split into two distinct sections: a spiny front section and a softer rear section, which is characteristic of the species.
Varieties of Grey Mullet in the UK
In UK waters, there are three main varieties of grey mullet.
It can be tricky to know which species of Mullet you have speared, check out the video which shows the difference between the Mullet species.
- Thick-Lipped Grey Mullet (Chelon labrosus): The most common species in UK waters, the thick-lipped grey mullet is easily recognizable by its large, fleshy lips. This species is known for its adaptability to various environments, ranging from brackish estuaries to rocky coastal waters.
- Thin-Lipped Grey Mullet (Chelon ramada): As the name suggests, this species has much thinner lips compared to its thick-lipped cousin. The thin-lipped grey mullet is slightly smaller and is often found in brackish waters and estuaries, where it feeds primarily on small invertebrates and detritus.
- Golden Grey Mullet (Chelon aurata): The golden grey mullet is the rarest of the three varieties in UK waters. It can be distinguished by a small golden spot on the gill cover. Typically found in warmer, southern waters, the golden grey mullet tends to inhabit sandy and rocky shores.
Behaviour and Diet
Grey mullets are known for their schooling behaviour, often seen swimming in large groups close to the surface. They are highly adaptable and can be found in a range of habitats, from shallow estuaries and lagoons to rocky coastal areas and harbours. Despite their apparent abundance, grey mullet can be notoriously difficult to catch due to their cautious and skittish nature.
Grey mullet are omnivorous, feeding primarily on algae, detritus, and small invertebrates. Their diet consists of organic matter found on the seabed, which they scrape off with their specialized mouths. They are also known to feed on plankton and occasionally small fish. This varied diet helps them thrive in a wide range of environments.
Habitat and UK Distribution
Grey mullets are highly adaptable and can be found almost anywhere across the UK. They are most abundant in calm shallow waters, including sheltered bays, harbors, estuaries, and coastal lagoons. During the cold months, they are more likely to venture further offshore to feed and spawn. Spawning aggregations begin forming in October on the South Coast of England and by Spring most fish will have spawned to create future generations.
The thick-lipped grey mullet is the most widespread species in the UK and can be found along the entire coastline, from the southern shores of Cornwall to the northernmost reaches of Scotland. The thin-lipped grey mullet is more commonly found in the southern and western parts of the UK, while the golden grey mullet is primarily limited to the warmer waters of the south coast.
Grey Mullet and Spearfishing in the UK
For those interested in spearfishing, the grey mullet presents a unique challenge. Due to their skittish nature and preference for shallow, often murky waters, they can be difficult to approach and target. However, for spearfishers who are patient and skilled, landing a grey mullet can be a rewarding experience.
When targeting grey mullet, it’s essential to remain as stealthy as possible. These fish are extremely wary of disturbances in the water, and even the slightest movement can send them darting away. They are most commonly found in shallow coastal areas, particularly around piers, harbours, and estuaries, where they feed on algae and organic matter.
Hunting Grey Mullet
As the tide floods, Mullet will move into the shallows around the rocks to scrape algae off the rocks and filter the sand for invertebrates. An extremely exciting way of hunting these foraging Mullet is to stalk them, while snorkeling, in the shallows. A stealthy approach is essential, as schools of fish will be scraping the rocks and sand at high tide right up in a few inches of water. Calm seas are essential for this kind of hunting, as you quietly swim around a boulder and see a dozen mullet foraging right in front of you. If they see you, you might have a second to react as they will be off with a flick of the tail. Consider keeping the sun behind you as this helps conceal you and move slowly with your gun out in front of you, ready to take the shot!
Another worthy approach to hunt mullet is the shallow aspetto. By shallow we really do mean 2 or 3 meters, diving down and quietly waiting as they swim by, often in large groups. Have your gun ready in front of you and allow the fish to swim across it. Often they will keep a fairly steady course provided you keep still and stealthy.
Speargun Choice
Maneuverability is key when hunting Grey Mullet, because these fish often swim quickly. A 75cm speargun with a powerful single 16mm band and quick 6.5mm ultra hard shaft is perfect, as often if you miss you will hit the rocks behind! A closed muzzle can be a good choice, as these are quicker to reload.
Othe mullet hunting tips
- Mullet have very soft bellies and are extremely powerful. Your shaft needs to hit the mullet in the top half of the fish to land it, so a nice, close broadside fish is needed to ensure you land the fish.
- When targeting Mullet, avoid diving too deep as they prefer the shallows. Although they can turn up anywhere, they are happiest foraging in the shallows in calm waters on a sunny day.
- Mullet can be found all year round, especially in the South West. But you massively increase your chances of finding them when the water is calm. They cannot feed in the shallows when waves are crashing in.
Other Information:
The National Mullet Club
Grey Mullet Fish Recipes
Conservation and Sustainability
As with all marine species, it’s important to approach grey mullet fishing with a sense of responsibility. Although they are not currently listed as a threatened species, their slow growth rate and late maturity make them vulnerable to overfishing. Sustainable fishing practices, such as observing size limits and closed seasons, are crucial to ensuring that populations remain healthy and abundant in UK waters.