Thicklip Grey Mullet

Identification

The thick-lipped grey mullet is a slender, torpedo-shaped fish of 30 to 60 cm with a notably thick upper lip covered in small papillae. The body is silver-grey with a darker back and faint dark stripes. The two dorsal fins are widely separated. The mouth is small and toothless.

Behavior & ecology

Lives in coastal waters, harbours, and estuaries, regularly entering fresh water. Grazes algae from rocks, jetties, and harbour walls using its characteristic thick lip as a scraper. Schools are often visible at the surface in harbours and marinas.

Fishing techniques

A challenging sport fish due to its small mouth and algae diet:

• Bread dough: Small ball of dough on a fine hook (size 8-12), presented just below the surface.
• Seaweed: A strip of sea lettuce on a fine hook, effective near jetties.

In the Netherlands

Common along the entire Dutch coast, in the Oosterschelde, Westerschelde, and harbours. With 551 records, well documented. Large schools visible in marinas during summer.