Surfcasting mullet fishing, equipment and tips for success

Mullet fishing © Laurent Duclos

Surfcasting for mullet is a fun and effective technique, suitable for beginners and experienced anglers alike. It relies on light tackle, precise preparation and a discreet approach to maximize the chances of success.

Hardware and assembly

We recommend using a light rod with good bite detection, such as a hybrid rod or a light surfcasting rod, easy to handle and sensitive to fine bites. A light reel fitted with 20 to 25 hundredths line is recommended, to preserve the lightness of the rig. The rig must be precise: a 35/40-centimetre line body, with 20-centimetre shanks fitted with n°8 hooks, and visible floating beads (yellow or white) in front of the hook to attract mullet.

The long bottom drag, 3 to 5 metres long, allows the bait to move around and be attracted by the current. Fluorocarbon is recommended for discretion, especially in clear water.

Choice of bait

The most popular baits are half-hard worms, such as red gravel or small pieces of sardine or sand worm. The presentation should be active, with several worms hooked together to form a natural, attractive cluster.

Les vers dures, de bons appâts pour rechercher les mulets.
Hard worms, good bait for looking for mullets.

Fishing technique

A discreet approach is essential, as mullet are wary fish. Avoid getting too close to the water or making noise. After casting at an intermediate distance (30-40 metres), wait patiently for the bite, paying attention to the slightest vibration of the rod.

Mullets are often found in areas close to the shore, especially during calm periods or at the end of the day. They can be found near sandbanks, in bays or along waves, taking advantage of water movement to feed.

Favourable times and conditions

The best times to fish for mullet are in the morning and evening, when the water is calm and light is low, limiting their distrust. Clear water is ideal, as it makes it easier to see the fish and observe their behaviour.

Slightly foggy or overcast weather is no obstacle, and the weather must be favorable, especially when currents carry the suspended particles that mules like to consume.

Le mulet, un poisson à rechercher en surfcasting.
Mullet, a fish to look out for when surfcasting.

Additional advice

  • Use floating or glow-in-the-dark beads to attract the attention of mullets on the surface, especially as they pass through the water.
  • Adapt the mounting depth to the behavior observed: on the bottom in calm waters or on the surface if the mullets are on the surface.
  • Respect the areas and avoid pollution or disturbance, as these fish are sensitive to the environment.

The key to surfcasting for mullet lies in the quality of the equipment, the finesse of the bait, discretion in the approach and patience in waiting for the fish to show themselves in their natural environment. This simple yet stimulating technique allows you to enjoy sea fishing to the full in a variety of conditions.

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