Go Fishing With Finger Mullet: Your Complete 2025 Bait Guide

By: Dave Samuel

Updated On: July 31, 2025

I'll never forget the morning I discovered finger mullet as bait. After three hours of throwing artificials at Lady Bird Lake without a single strike, an old-timer paddled up in his beat-up kayak. "Son, what you need is some of these," he said, holding up a bucket of silvery finger mullet. Twenty minutes later, I was fighting my first 30-inch redfish. That day changed everything about how I approach fishing from my kayak.

If you're tired of watching other anglers catch fish while you're still rigging your third different lure, finger mullet might be your game-changer too. These small, silvery baitfish are like candy to predatory species, and once you master catching and fishing with them, you'll wonder why you waited so long to try.

In this guide, I'll share everything I've learned about finger mullet fishing over the past decade - from netting your own bait at dawn to landing trophy fish by lunch. Whether you're fishing from a fishing kayak or working the surf, these techniques will put more fish in your boat.

What Are Finger Mullet (And Why Fish Go Crazy for Them)?

Finger mullet are juvenile mullet that got their name because they're typically about the size of your finger - usually 2 to 6 inches long. These small schooling fish inhabit coastal waters, bays, estuaries, and tidal rivers throughout the Atlantic and Gulf coasts. During late summer and fall, they move in massive schools, creating what we call the "mullet run."

What makes finger mullet such deadly bait? It's all about that flash and movement. Their silver sides reflect light underwater like tiny mirrors, and their natural swimming pattern triggers predatory instincts in game fish. Plus, they're a natural food source - predators are already programmed to hunt them.

The beauty of fishing with finger mullet is their versatility. Unlike shrimp that get picked apart by bait stealers, or artificial lures that fish might ignore, finger mullet occupy that sweet spot of being tough enough to stay on the hook while irresistible to target species. I've caught everything from 12-inch speckled trout to 50-pound tarpon on these little silver bullets.

Target Species: What You'll Catch with Finger Mullet

When I tell people about my finger mullet fishing success, they always ask the same question: "What can you catch?" The shorter answer would be listing what you can't catch. These baitfish are on the menu for nearly every predatory species in saltwater.

Redfish (Red Drum) are probably the most reliable targets. They absolutely demolish finger mullet, especially in shallow water. I've had reds hit so hard they nearly ripped the rod from my hands. The key is fishing them under a popping cork in 2-4 feet of water during moving tides.

Speckled Trout are another prime target, particularly around grass beds and drop-offs. They tend to be more finicky than reds, so a lighter presentation works best. I like to free-line finger mullet with minimal weight, letting them swim naturally.

Flounder require patience. They'll grab a finger mullet and hold it for several seconds before swallowing. Count to five after the initial hit before setting the hook - it's torture, but it works.

Bluefish and Spanish Mackerel will cut through schools of finger mullet like buzz saws. Use a wire leader for these toothy critters, and hold on tight - they fight like demons.

Other species I've caught on finger mullet include snook, tarpon, jack crevalle, black drum, ladyfish, sharks, and even the occasional cobia. Basically, if it swims and eats other fish, it'll eat a finger mullet.

How to Catch Finger Mullet: Cast Net Mastery?

Catching your own finger mullet is half the fun, and it'll save you serious money compared to buying bait. The key tool is a quality cast net, and after trying dozens over the years, I've learned what works.

For finger mullet, you want a 6 to 8-foot radius net with 3/8-inch mesh. This size is perfect for catching mullet from 3 to 6 inches while being manageable to throw from a kayak or shore. I use a Betts Super Pro - it's heavy enough to sink fast but not so heavy that you'll blow out your shoulder after 20 throws.

Finding Finger Mullet Schools

Location is everything. Look for:

Shallow flats during incoming tides
Creek mouths where fresh and saltwater mix
Grass bed edges in 1-3 feet of water
Marina basins early morning or late evening
Beach troughs where waves create a channel

The best indicator? Surface activity. Finger mullet create tiny splashes and ripples as they feed. Sometimes you'll see them jumping to escape predators. When you spot nervous water or birds diving, that's your cue.

Cast Net Technique from a Kayak

Throwing a cast net from a sit-on-top kayak takes practice, but it's totally doable. Here's my method:

Approach quietly - Use your paddle to drift toward the school, not your motor
Stand if possible - Stability is key, so only attempt this in calm water
Lead the school - Throw where they're heading, not where they are
Quick retrieve - Don't let the net sit; mullet escape fast

Pro tip: Practice throwing in your yard first. Set up some cans as targets and work on getting that perfect pancake spread. Your back (and your bait bucket) will thank you.

Alternative Methods: No Cast Net? No Problem

Not everyone can throw a cast net, especially if you have shoulder issues or fish from a kayak where standing isn't safe. I've helped plenty of anglers who physically can't cast net still catch finger mullet using these methods:

Sabiki Rig Method

This is my favorite alternative. Rig a sabiki (tiny multi-hook setup) with small pieces of shrimp or bread balls. Add a small float about 18 inches above the top hook and a 1/2-ounce weight at the bottom. Cast near structure or grass beds and jig gently. Finger mullet will hit the tiny baits, especially early morning.

Hook and Bobber Technique

My fishing buddy's 75-year-old mom taught me this one. Use a size 10 hook with a small piece of white bread rolled into a ball. Set a small bobber 2 feet above the hook. Cast into channels or creek mouths and wait. The mullet will nibble the bread, and you can catch them one at a time. It's slow but effective.

Trap Method

Minnow traps work for finger mullet in tidal creeks. Bait with bread, oatmeal, or canned cat food (seriously). Set the trap at high tide in areas where mullet congregate, then retrieve at low tide. Not as productive as cast netting, but it's passive - set it and forget it.

Keeping Finger Mullet Alive: The Secret to Success

Dead finger mullet catch fish, but live ones catch more. After losing countless baits to poor aeration, I've perfected my live bait system for kayak fishing.

For short trips (2-3 hours), a simple 5-gallon bucket with a quality aerator works fine. Don't overcrowd - I keep no more than 2 dozen finger mullet per bucket. Change out 1/3 of the water every hour with fresh seawater.

For all-day trips, I upgraded to a flow-through bait bucket that hangs off my kayak. The constant water exchange keeps mullet frisky all day. Just make sure the holes are small enough that your bait can't escape but large enough for good flow.

Water temperature is critical. Finger mullet stress out fast in warm water. During summer, I add a frozen water bottle to the bucket. It slowly melts, keeping the water cool without shocking the bait.

Signs your mullet are stressed:

Swimming at the surface gasping
Laying on their sides
Red noses from hitting the bucket
Loss of scales

If you see these signs, change the water immediately or use the stressed ones first before they die.

Rigging Finger Mullet: Three Proven Methods

After years of experimentation, I've narrowed down to three rigging methods that consistently produce fish. Each has its place depending on conditions and target species.

Carolina Rig (My Go-To Setup)

This is money for redfish and flounder. Here's how I rig it:

1/2 to 1-ounce egg sinker (depending on current)
18-24 inches of 20-pound fluorocarbon leader
Size 2/0 Kahle hook
Small bead between weight and swivel (protects knot)

Hook the mullet through both lips from bottom to top. This lets them breathe and swim naturally while keeping the hook point exposed for solid hooksets.

Free-Line Rig (For Spooky Fish)

When fish are finicky, less is more:

3 feet of 15-pound fluorocarbon leader
Size 1/0 circle hook
No weight or just a small split shot if needed

Hook through the lips or just behind the dorsal fin. Let the mullet swim freely - the lack of weight makes for a super natural presentation.

Popping Cork Rig (Attention Getter)

This setup calls fish from distance:

Popping cork (I like the Cajun Thunder)
2-3 feet of 20-pound leader below cork
Size 2/0 kahle or circle hook

Hook the mullet through the nose bridge (between the eyes). This keeps them alive longest and creates erratic action when you pop the cork.

Where to Hook Finger Mullet (Location Matters)?

Hook placement can make or break your presentation. Here are the four methods I use:

Through the Lips: Best for bottom fishing with weight. Allows natural breathing and swimming. Pierce from bottom jaw up through top lip.

Nose/Eye Socket: My favorite for drift fishing. Thread hook through the clear cartilage between the eyes. Mullet stays alive forever and swims naturally.

Behind Dorsal: Creates erratic wounded action. Hook about 1/3 back from head, just behind dorsal fin above lateral line. Great for aggressive predators.

Tail Hook: Unusual but deadly in strong current. Hook through meaty part near tail. Mullet swims frantically against current, driving predators nuts.

Seasonal Patterns: When Finger Mullet Fishing Peaks

Understanding seasonal patterns transformed my success rate. Here's what to expect throughout the year:

Spring (March-May): Finger mullet start showing in warming shallows. Fish them in back bays and creeks during afternoon high tides when water warms.

Summer (June-August): Prime time begins. Mullet are everywhere - beaches, flats, rivers. Early morning and evening are best to avoid heat. This is when I stock up for the freezer.

Fall (September-November): The legendary mullet run. Massive schools migrate south along beaches. Predators go into feeding frenzies. If you only fish finger mullet once a year, make it October.

Winter (December-February): Mullet school in deeper channels and holes. Harder to catch but still effective. Fish them slow and deep for lethargic predators.

Advanced Techniques: Level Up Your Mullet Game

After mastering the basics, these advanced techniques will separate you from the weekend warriors:

Chumming with Finger Mullet

Cut a few mullet into chunks and toss them upcurrent from your spot. The scent trail brings predators running. I'll sacrifice 3-4 mullet to chum, then drift live ones through the zone. Deadly for bull reds and big trout.

Night Fishing Under Lights

Dock lights attract finger mullet, which attract predators. Free-line mullet just outside the light's edge. Snook and tarpon can't resist. Wear a good headlamp for rigging in the dark.

Match the Hatch Sizing

Pay attention to the size of local mullet schools. If most are 3 inches, don't fish a 6-incher. Predators key on the prevalent size. I keep different sizes separated in my bait bucket.

The Wounded Mullet Trick

For stubborn fish, clip one pectoral fin with scissors. The mullet swims in circles, triggering strikes from neutral fish. Seems cruel, but it works when nothing else will.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even experienced anglers make these finger mullet fishing mistakes:

Overcrowding the bait bucket kills more mullet than anything. Three dozen mullet in a 5-gallon bucket = dead bait in an hour. Less is more.

Wrong hook size ruins presentation. Too big and the mullet can't swim properly. Too small and you'll miss fish. Match hook to bait size.

Fishing dead mullet like live ones doesn't work. Dead mullet need different presentation - cut them for chunks or fish them on bottom for catfish and sharks.

Throwing cast net directly on mullet schools spooks them for hours. Lead the school and let them swim into the falling net.

Essential Gear for Finger Mullet Fishing

Beyond basic tackle, specialized gear makes finger mullet fishing more productive:

Must-Have Items:

Quality cast net (6-8 foot, 3/8" mesh)
Aerated bait bucket or livewell
Long-nose pliers for deep hooksets
Bait net for transferring mullet
Polarized sunglasses for spotting schools
Cast net bucket for storage

Kayak-Specific Gear:

Bait tank that attaches to your kayak's track system
Stability outriggers for standing to cast net
Rod holder for multiple setups
Small cooler with ice for backup

Budget-Friendly Alternatives:

DIY flow-through bucket (drill holes in standard bucket)
Battery-powered aerator from Walmart ($15)
Mesh laundry bag as makeshift cast net storage

Safety Considerations for Kayak Anglers

Fishing with finger mullet from a kayak presents unique challenges:

Standing to cast net is risky. Only attempt in flat calm conditions. Consider outriggers for added stability.

Handling multiple rods with live bait gets chaotic during hot bites. Secure spare rods to prevent tangles and lost gear.

Bait bucket placement affects kayak stability. Keep it low and centered. A tethered floating bucket works better than deck-mounted in rough water.

Sharp hooks and thrashing fish are hazardous in confined spaces. Keep pliers handy and consider a fish grip tool for safer handling.

Storing and Preserving Finger Mullet

Sometimes you catch more mullet than you can use. Here's how to preserve them for future trips:

Freezing for Later:

Rinse mullet in clean saltwater
Pat dry with paper towels
Vacuum seal in meal-sized portions (dozen per bag)
Lay flat in freezer
Use within 3 months for best quality

Brining for Toughness:

Mix 1 cup salt with 1 quart water. Soak mullet for 2 hours, then freeze. The brine toughens them up and adds scent. Perfect for surf fishing where you need distance casting.

Quick Salting Method:

For immediate use, roll fresh-dead mullet in table salt. Let sit 10 minutes, then rinse. Firms up the bait for better hook holding.

Troubleshooting Common Problems

"My mullet die too fast" - Check water temperature, reduce bucket density, increase aeration, change water frequently.

"Can't find mullet schools" - Try different tides, look for bird activity, check temperature breaks, scout new areas at dawn.

"Fish won't eat my mullet" - Downsize hooks, lengthen leaders, reduce weight, check if mullet size matches local baitfish.

"Mullet won't stay on hook" - Adjust hook placement, use bait thread for extra security, check hook sharpness, avoid old/soft bait.

Regional Variations and Tips

Finger mullet fishing varies by region:

Texas Coast: Fish them under popping corks in shallow bays. Bull reds crush them over shell beds.

Florida Keys: Free-line around mangroves for snook and baby tarpon. Bridge fishing at night is phenomenal.

Carolina Coast: Carolina rig in inlets for flounder and drum. Surf fishing during mullet run is legendary.

Louisiana Marsh: Sight-cast to redfish in skinny water. Mullet under cork catches everything.

Making the Most of Every Trip

Success with finger mullet isn't just about technique - it's about maximizing opportunities:

Scout at low tide to find structure and channels where mullet congregate at high tide.

Keep a fishing log noting successful patterns - moon phase, tide, location, mullet size all matter.

Network with locals at boat ramps and bait shops. The mullet bite changes daily, and local knowledge is gold.

Experiment constantly with presentations. What worked yesterday might not work today.

FAQ

How many finger mullet can I catch legally?

Most states don't have limits on finger mullet for personal bait use. However, cast net size restrictions apply in many areas. In Florida, for example, cast nets can't exceed 14 feet in radius. Always check current regulations for your specific area.

What's the best time of day to catch finger mullet?

Dawn and dusk are prime times, especially during summer. Mullet move into shallows to feed as light changes. During cooler months, midday sun warms shallow flats, concentrating baitfish.

Can I catch finger mullet in freshwater?

While adult mullet tolerate freshwater, true finger mullet are primarily saltwater fish. However, in brackish rivers, you'll find them miles upstream from the ocean, especially during spring spawning runs.

How long will finger mullet live in a bucket?

With proper aeration and water changes, finger mullet can survive 4-6 hours in a 5-gallon bucket. The key is not overcrowding - I never put more than 2 dozen per bucket, less in summer heat.

Do I need a fishing license to catch finger mullet?

Yes, most states require a fishing license for cast netting baitfish. Some states also require a specific cast net permit. Check your state's regulations - fines for fishing without proper licenses aren't worth the risk.

What's the difference between finger mullet and mud minnows?

Finger mullet are silver with streamlined bodies and swim in schools. Mud minnows are darker, bottom-dwellers that tolerate poor water quality. Both make good bait, but finger mullet's flash and schooling behavior trigger more strikes.

Can I use frozen finger mullet effectively?

Frozen mullet catch fish, but not as well as live ones. They work best for bottom species like catfish and sharks. For gamefish, thaw slowly in saltwater and fish them like cut bait rather than trying to imitate live action.

Why do my hooks pull out when using finger mullet?

Usually from setting the hook too early with circle hooks, or too much drag pressure. With circle hooks, let the fish run and slowly tighten - don't jerk. With J-hooks, wait for the second thump before setting.

Should I use a steel leader with finger mullet?

Only when targeting toothy species like bluefish, mackerel, or sharks. For redfish and trout, fluorocarbon gets more bites. If losing fish to cut-offs, switch to heavier fluorocarbon (30-40 lb) before going to wire.

How do I keep finger mullet from flying off during casting?

Hook placement is crucial - through the lips or nose holds best. Lob cast instead of whipping. Consider using bait thread to secure the mullet to your hook. Some anglers use small rubber bands, though I find it unnecessary with proper technique.

Bottom Line: Your Finger Mullet Fishing Journey

Twenty years ago, that old-timer at Lady Bird Lake changed my fishing life with a simple bucket of finger mullet. Since then, these little silver baitfish have helped me catch more species, in more places, than any artificial lure in my tackle box.

The beauty of finger mullet fishing lies in its simplicity. Sure, there's technique involved, but at its core, you're presenting natural bait that predators are hardwired to eat. Master the basics - catching them, keeping them alive, and presenting them properly - and you'll catch fish consistently.

Start simple. Get a decent cast net, find some mullet schools, and experiment with basic rigs. As you gain confidence, try advanced techniques and different presentations. Most importantly, pay attention to what works in your local waters and adapt accordingly.

Whether you're kayak fishing your local bay or wading the surf, finger mullet will up your game. They're readily available, relatively easy to catch, and absolutely deadly on everything from palm-sized panfish to tackle-busting tarpon.

Now get out there and load up that bait bucket. The fish are waiting, and with finger mullet on your hook, they won't be waiting long. See you on the water!

Remember - the best anglers aren't necessarily the ones with the most expensive gear or secret spots. They're the ones who understand the fundamentals and execute them consistently. Master finger mullet fishing, and you'll join their ranks.