The Florida Mullet Run: A Guide to Safety and Fun

The Florida mullet run is the annual migration of mullet along the Florida coast from late summer thru November. It’s a spectacle not to be missed during the Florida-mullet-run. The mullet leave their summer homes off the coast of Carolina and Georgia to head to South Florida to school up and spawn. The large schools of mullet always attract big groups of larger predators. You will see Bluefish, Jack Cravelle, Tarpon, Snook and of course a variety of Sharks. The surfing lineups are full of activity during the Florida-mullet-run and the schools of fish are generally in the surf zones. You will have some amazing views and close calls with our local wild life during the Florida-mullet-run. The Space Coast to Miami will be the most active coastal zones.

DO’s and DON’T’S:

Do: Always watch the beach closely before paddling out—especially during the Florida-mullet-run.

Do: Be aware of changing conditions. The mullet will be calm one minute and super active at a moments notice. The increased activity generally indicates the presence of predatory fish ready to feed during the exciting Florida-mullet-run.

Do: Remove yourself from the feeding frenzy quickly. Give it a few minutes for the action to subside before deciding to paddle back out.

Do: Learn how to fish :). The mullet run will provide memories for a lifetime. Frenzied fish exploding out of the water will have your heart pumping and lines tight around Florida’s mullet movement.

Do: Invest in a Shark Banz shark deterrent. Shark Banz work by utilizing a magnetic field to deter sharks. Peace of mind during the Florida-mullet-run, but still remain vigilant.

Don’t: It is a bad idea to paddle out if there is a lot of action in the water. Feeding fish will often mistake your foot for a mullet.

Don’t: Wear shiny watches or jewelry. The flash of light may resemble a mullet and cause a reaction from bigger fish, especially during the Florida-mullet-run.

Don’t: Surfing sunrise or sunset should be avoided. Fish are most active at those times and can mistake you for food.

Be aware and stay safe during the mullet run, especially throughout the Florida-mullet-run period. This is my favorite time of year as a native Floridian. The ocean gives you lots of chances to enjoy memorable experiences that can last a lifetime!

Stop by Snook Nook in Jensen Beach for the best fishing gear and local knowledge. www.snooknookfl.com