Yellow Eye Mullet
The yellow-eyed mullet, Aldrichetta forsteri, is a coastal marine fish found in New Zealand and southern Australia. Known for its silvery body and distinctive yellow eyes, this species inhabits estuaries, bays, and shallow coastal waters. It is often targeted by anglers for its abundance and suitability as bait. Yellow-eyed mullet are schooling fish, making them easy to catch in large numbers, especially in shallow, sheltered waters.
Length~30 (max 40)
Weight~1 (max 1)
WaterFresh
Water Temp14-28° F
Depth50 ft
- Other names-
- Length~30 (max 40)
- Weight~1 (max 1)
- WaterFresh
- Water Temp14-28° F
- Depth50 ft
Popular lures for Yellow Eye Mullet
Regulation for Yellow Eye Mullet
- SeasonAlways open
- Bag limit60
- Vessel limit180
- Trophy limits-
- Max size-
- Min size21 cm
- Measurement-
- Prohibited methods-
Living Conditions
🐟 Habitat preferences
- Yellow-eyed mullet prefer shallow coastal waters, including estuaries and sheltered bays
- They are often found near sandy or muddy bottoms where they feed on small invertebrates and detritus
- This species forms large schools, particularly in areas with abundant food sources like seagrass beds
- They are surface feeders, frequently seen near the water’s surface, making them accessible to shore anglers
♻️ Life cycle and mating behavior
- Spawning occurs in coastal waters, usually in warmer months, with eggs released in open water
- After hatching, the juveniles move to shallow, sheltered waters, such as estuaries, where they find protection
- Young mullet grow quickly, staying in groups for safety and feeding efficiency
- As they mature, they continue to school in large numbers, a behavior that persists throughout their life cycle, making them an easy target for fishermen