The Magnificent Mullet Run: A Coastal Fishing Phenomena
Last Updated on August 7, 2024 by Boatsetter Team
Every year, as summer fades into fall, a spectacle unfolds along the Atlantic and Gulf coasts of the United States. Millions of mullet, sleek silvery fish with blunt heads, embark on a journey that sets the coastal waters abuzz with activity. This is the mullet run, a natural event that transforms the fishing scene and attracts a host of predators, from tarpon to sharks.
The mullet run typically begins in August, peaks in September and October, and can last through December. As water temperatures cool, these baitfish move southward in massive schools, hugging the coastlines and estuaries. Their presence ignites a feeding frenzy among larger game fish, creating prime conditions for anglers seeking trophy catches. Let’s dive into some of the best destinations to experience this piscine parade.
Florida’s East Coast
Best time: Mid-August to late November
The sheer volume of mullet along Florida’s East Coast is staggering. Predators like tarpon, snook, and jack crevalle put on acrobatic displays as they chase mullet through the surf. On calm days, you might witness the water’s surface erupt as massive schools of mullet attempt to evade their pursuers.
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Georgia’s Golden Isles
Best time: Early September to early November
The vast salt marshes and tidal creeks of the Golden Isles provide a labyrinth of waterways where mullet and their predators play a high-stakes game of cat and mouse. Redfish and speckled trout are the stars here, often found tailing in shallow water as they hunt mullet.
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South Carolina’s Lowcountry
Best time: Mid-August to late October
South Carolina’s numerous inlets and bays create bottlenecks where mullet schools concentrate, attracting a diverse array of predators. Bull redfish, in particular, show up in force, providing anglers with chances at trophy-sized catches.
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Texas Gulf Coast
Best time: Late September to mid-December
The mullet run in the Texas Gulf Coast coincides with the arrival of bull redfish and speckled trout in the bays and passes. The clear, shallow waters of the Laguna Madre offer sight-fishing opportunities rarely found elsewhere.
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Guided Fishing Experiences for the Mullet Run
Whether you’re after a center console to chase schools in the open water or a stealthy solo skiff to prowl the backwaters, Boatsetter Fishing has you covered. Their platform connects you with local captains who know the waters intimately and can put you on the fish when the mullet are running.
With Boatsetter Fishing, you’ll have access to top-notch fishing gear and the expertise needed to land that trophy catch. From novices looking to learn the ropes to seasoned anglers seeking to refine their techniques, a guided experience through Boatsetter Fishing can elevate your mullet run adventure to new heights.
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