How to Choose the Right Cast Net for Mullet Fishing

Mullet are one of the most popular live baits for inshore and nearshore fishing across the Gulf Coast, Atlantic Coast, and beyond. They're hardy, swim naturally, and drive predators like redfish, snook, tarpon, and striped bass absolutely wild. But catching mullet consistently with a cast net takes the right gear and the right approach. Here's exactly how to set yourself up for success.

What Mesh Size Do You Need for Mullet?

Mesh size is the single most important factor when targeting mullet. The right mesh depends on the size of the mullet you're going after:

• Finger mullet (2–4 inches): Use 3/8" square mesh. This is the standard choice for catching small mullet to use as live bait.

• Juvenile mullet (4–7 inches): Use 1/2" square mesh. This is the most versatile choice and the most popular mesh size for mullet fishing overall.

• Larger adult mullet (7+ inches): Use 5/8" square mesh. Larger mesh holds bigger fish while letting smaller ones escape.

What Radius Net Should You Use for Mullet?

Mullet often school in large, tight pods close to the surface. This means you want a net with enough radius to cover the school in a single throw. For most situations, an 8–10 ft radius net is the sweet spot. It opens wide enough to surround a school but is still manageable for a confident intermediate thrower.

If you're fishing from a dock, bridge, or tight shoreline spot where you have limited swing room, a 6 ft net is a smart choice. You'll catch fewer per throw, but you'll get clean, full-circle opens in confined spaces.

Lead Weight: Why It Matters for Mullet

Mullet are fast and spooky. Once the net hits the water, you want it to sink immediately and close before the fish can dart underneath the lead line. Heavier lead per foot (1.0–1.5 lb/ft) is strongly recommended for mullet fishing. Our Pancake Premium Cast Net with 1.25 lb/ft lead is a top choice for experienced mullet anglers — the flat lead design sinks evenly and rapidly, giving fish virtually no escape window.

Where to Find Mullet Schools

• Look for surface disturbances: Mullet frequently jump and ripple the surface, especially in the early morning and late afternoon.

• Flats and grass beds: Mullet graze along shallow grass flats, particularly near the edge where they meet deeper water.

• Passes and inlets: Mullet school heavily in passes during tidal movement. Time your throws with the current for maximum bait-catching efficiency.

• Under lights at night: In coastal areas, mullet (and other baitfish) are drawn to dock lights and bridge lights at night. This is one of the easiest situations to load up on fresh bait.

Recommended BasicGear Nets for Mullet

• Consumer Series (1/2" mesh, 8 ft): Best all-around option for recreational anglers targeting mullet. Available on Amazon at amazon.com/basicgear.

• Pancake Premium Cast Net (1.25 lb/ft, 1/2" mesh): Best for serious bait fishermen who need fast-sinking, maximum-coverage performance.

Not sure which size is right for your fishing spot? Visit our Find Your Net page for a full selection guide based on your bait, environment, and experience level.