Mullet Fishing in Melbourne & Victoria: Where to Catch, Tackle & Tips

Introduction

Mullet, belonging to the Mugilidae family, are commonly found in coastal waters around Victoria. These fish are characterized by their elongated, cylindrical bodies, small scales, and distinctive forked tails. Mullet have adapted to various environments and can be found in both saltwater and brackish waters, including estuaries, bays, and even some freshwater systems.

In Victoria, several species of mullet can be encountered, including the sea mullet, yellow-eye mullet, and flat-tail mullet. They are often seen swimming in large schools near the surface or in shallow waters. Mullet are known for their ability to jump out of the water, which is believed to be a method of escaping predators or dislodging parasites.

Mullet are omnivorous, feeding on small organisms, algae, and detritus. They play an important role in the ecosystem by helping to clean up waterways and serving as a food source for larger predatory fish. While not typically considered a premier sport fish, mullet can provide enjoyable fishing experiences, especially for novice anglers or those fishing from shore.

When targeting mullet in Victoria, focus on areas with sandy or muddy bottoms in estuaries, rivers, and coastal waters. Dawn and dusk are often productive times for mullet fishing. Light tackle and small hooks are recommended due to the fish’s small mouth and cautious feeding habits.

What restrictions are in place for Mullet fishing in Melbourne?

In Victoria, there are specific regulations for mullet fishing:

• There is no minimum legal size limit for mullet.
• The bag limit is a combined total of 40 for one or more species of mullet.
• Always check the latest Victorian Recreational Fishing Guide for any updates to regulations.
• Ensure you have a valid fishing license before fishing in Victorian waters.
• Respect the environment and practice responsible fishing.

How to catch Mullet

To catch mullet in Victoria, use light tackle with small hooks (sizes 6-10) to match their small mouths. A simple running sinker rig or a float rig can be effective. Berley (chum) the area with bread or bran to attract schools of mullet. Fish close to the bottom or near the surface, depending on where you spot the fish. Patience is key, as mullet can be cautious feeders. Try fishing in estuaries, river mouths, and along sandy beaches. Early morning or late afternoon are often the best times to target mullet.

What should you fish with for Mullet?

When it comes to fishing for Mullet, your choice of bait or lure can greatly impact your success. Based on the preferred fishing methods for this species, you will have a bit more success with baits when fishing for Mullet, but lure fishing is common too.

For the best chances of success, try using Bread as bait or fishing with a Soft Plastics. Remember to always check local regulations and adjust your fishing strategy based on the specific conditions and seasons in your fishing area.

The Top 7 Baits to Use for Mullet

For those who prefer bait fishing, here are the top 7 options that have consistently produced results for Mullet:

• Bread
• Dough Baits
• Maggots
• Garden Worms
• Earthworms
• Corn
• Prawns

The Top 3 Lures to Use for Mullet

If you're a fan of lure fishing, make sure to pack these top three performers for Mullet:

• Soft Plastics
• Flies
• Micro Jigs

Where to catch Mullet in Melbourne

Anglers in Melbourne and Victoria have numerous opportunities to catch Mullet. Our research has identified one standout location that consistently produces great results for Mullet enthusiasts.

Below, we've highlighted the top spot to cast your line for Mullet. Each location offers its own unique features and challenges, so be sure to research the specific conditions and best practices for each spot before your visit.

Other places to catch Mullet

While Mullet are not the main target at these locations, they can still be caught here. If you're looking for more of a challenge or want to try your luck in different settings, these spots might be worth exploring. Keep in mind that fishing for Mullet in these areas may require different techniques or patience, as they're not as abundant as in the primary locations. However, this can add an exciting element of surprise to your fishing experience.

Additional Secondary Locations

For the sake of brevity, we can't provide detailed descriptions for every location where Mullet might be found. However, to give you a comprehensive overview, here's a list of additional spots where anglers have reported catching Mullet, even though they may not be the primary target species in these areas:

• Lower Merri River
• Mallacoota Inlet
• Tarwin River estuary
• Yambuk Lake

FAQs about Mullet fishing in Melbourne