Best months
May–November
Where
- Sandy beaches
- Rocks
- Seagrass
Best time
- Daytime
Conditions
- Calm sea
Usual size
15–30 cm
General guidance for the Mediterranean and the nearby Atlantic; local seasons can differ.
How to catch it
Methods
- Bottom fishing
- Float
Baits
- Sea worms
- Shrimp
- Mussel
The angler's tip
Grubs in sand next to rocks by day: a small worm on a fine hook laid on the bottom, light lead, and patience.
Legal minimum size
| Country | Minimum size | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Morocco | ≥ 15 cm | Source Checked 2026-10-25 |
Rules change. Check the official source before you keep a fish; this table is not legal advice.
About this fish
The striped red mullet or surmullet is a species of goatfish found in the Mediterranean Sea, eastern North Atlantic Ocean, and the Black Sea. They can be found in water as shallow as 5 metres (16 ft) or as deep as 409 metres (1,342 ft) depending upon the portion of their range that they are in. This species can reach a length of 40 centimetres (16 in) SL though most are only around 25 centimetres (9.8 in). The greatest recorded weight for this species is 1 kilogram (2.2 lb). This is a commercially important species and is also sought after as a game fish.
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time to catch Striped red mullet?
The best months are May–November. Best time of the day: Daytime.
What bait or lure works for Striped red mullet?
Sea worms, Shrimp, Mussel · Bottom fishing, Float.
What is the legal minimum size of Striped red mullet?
Morocco: 15 cm.
These are estimates, not guarantees. Always look at the sea yourself before going out, do not go alone and wear a life jacket.
