54 



DIVISION OF FISH AND GAME 



Figure 27 



MULLET 

 Mugil cephalus 



Relationship: The only member of the mullet family, Mugilidae, found in 

 California. 



Distinguishing Characters: The two Avell-separated dorsal fins, the first com- 

 posed usually of four slender spines ; the minute teeth ; the absence of a lateral line ; 

 the very broad space between the eyes which is almost one-half the length of the head ; 

 the large scales. Length to about 2} feet. Color: Deep olive-gray on the back becoming 

 silvery on the sides and belly ; distinct dark stripes along each row of scales on the 

 sides and back. 



Distribution: Warm seas throughout the world; from Central California to 

 Chile on our coast. Not common north of Los Angeles County. A schooling fish, 

 usually found in bays and lagoons along the coast ; also occurs in the lower Colorado 

 River and the Salton Sea. 



Fishing Season: Throughout the year in the ocean. Taken commercially only 

 under permit at specified times in the Salton Sea. 



Importance: A good food fish but not the object of a heavy fishery in California. 



Fishing Gear: Beach seines, gill nets, dip nets. Contrary to popular belief, they 

 can be taken on a fly rod with either bait or a fly. 



