Flathead Grey Mullet
The flathead grey mullet, Mugil cephalus, is a cosmopolitan fish found in coastal waters worldwide. Known for its stout body and adaptability, it inhabits marine, brackish, and freshwater environments. This species is significant in fisheries and aquaculture, providing food and bait. It is also popular among anglers for its sporting qualities.
Length~50 (max 100)
Weight~4 (max 8)
WaterSalt, brackish, fresh
Water Temp8-24° F
Depth120 ft
- Other namesFlathead mullet, Striped mullet, Black mullet, Bully mullet, Common mullet
- Length~50 (max 100)
- Weight~4 (max 8)
- WaterSalt, brackish, fresh
- Water Temp8-24° F
- Depth120 ft
Popular lures for Flathead Grey Mullet
Regulation for Flathead Grey Mullet
- SeasonAlways open
- Bag limit60
- Vessel limit180
- Trophy limits-
- Max size-
- Min size21 cm
- Measurement-
- Prohibited methods-
Living Conditions
🐟 Habitat preferences
- Flathead grey mullets thrive in coastal waters, estuaries, and rivers
- They prefer sandy or muddy bottoms, often forming schools in shallow waters
- Their diet includes detritus, algae, and small invertebrates
- Juveniles are found in sheltered coastal areas and estuaries, feeding on plankton
♻️ Life cycle and mating behavior
- Spawning occurs at sea, typically in warm months
- Females lay large numbers of eggs, which are fertilized and float freely until hatching
- Larvae migrate back to coastal and estuarine areas to grow
- These fish exhibit strong site fidelity, often returning to the same spawning grounds annually