Golden Grey Mullet Fishing UK

A slim, silvery mullet with a grey-blue back, faint dark stripes along the flanks and a pointed head. The key feature is a golden patch on the gill cover and cheek, which is often bright. The lips are thin and the pectoral fins are fairly short, and it has two dorsal fins, the first with spines. Thick-lipped mullet have a much thicker upper lip with rows of small bumps. Thin-lipped mullet are very similar but usually have a dark spot or bar at the base of the pectoral fin and a less pronounced golden patch. Bass have one large, spiny dorsal fin and a bigger mouth.

Golden grey mullet are found mainly along the south coast, in south-west England and around Wales, with some fish further north in summer. Unlike other mullet, they often feed in the surf on clean sandy beaches, just beyond the breaking waves. They are also caught from rocky coves, harbours and estuary mouths. Surf beaches with gentle waves, clear water and warm conditions usually offer the best chances.

Golden grey mullet feed on small worms, shrimps, tiny crustaceans and other invertebrates in the sand, along with some algae and organic matter. Ragworm works because it is a natural food that matches what they forage for in the surf and gives off plenty of scent. Small baits on small hooks suit their modest mouths and cautious feeding.

• Ragworm
• Small ragworm sections
• Harbour ragworm
• Lugworm
• Baited spoon

1. Jan – quieter
2. Feb – quieter
3. Mar – quieter
4. Apr – quieter
5. May – quieter
6. Jun – good
7. Jul – good
8. Aug – good
9. Sep – good
10. Oct – good
11. Nov – quieter
12. Dec – quieter

Typical best months for shore anglers in England and Wales. What's in season

Light leger tactics on surf beaches are most effective. Use a light bass rod, spinning rod or quivertip rod with a 1–2oz lead and a long, fine trace of 6–8lb line. Small size 8–12 hooks baited with a section of ragworm, threaded on neatly, are ideal. Some anglers also use small spoons or spinners tipped with ragworm, retrieved slowly through the surf. Fish just behind the breaking waves on a flooding tide, and look for calm or gently surfing conditions with clear water. Late afternoon into dusk is often productive, as is the top of the tide. Bites are a series of sharp knocks and twitches on the rod tip. Strike positively but gently. Golden greys fight hard for their size, with fast runs and twisting dives, so use a soft drag.

Mullet are slow-growing and can be delicate, so handle them with wet hands, support the body and keep them out of the water briefly. Use forceps for small hooks and avoid squeezing the fish or holding it by the jaw. Return fish quickly and gently, as many anglers practise catch and release with mullet to protect stocks.

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Where to fish in the UK · Fishing conditions today

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  Shimano Aerlex 425cx Tublar 3 Piece Beach / Surf Rod Fishing Rod

  £99.00

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  Korda Armakord extreme leader weedy green

  £10.00

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  Korda Armamord sinking leader

  £15.00

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  MAP quick change system frameless method mould small

  £2.00

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  Nash zig screw red

  £4.00

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  Nash hook link sleeve short

  £2.50

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  Nash silicone sleeve d_cam

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  Nash hook kickers

  £3.00

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