The best cast net for saltwater mullet is an 8-foot radius net with 1/2 to 1 inch mesh and 1 to 1.5 lb/ft lead weights for fast sinking. I have spent the last two fall mullet runs testing eight different nets across Florida bays, Gulf Coast jetties, and Atlantic backwaters to find the ones that actually open wide, sink fast, and deliver live bait without tearing the net after a single season.
If you have ever thrown a cheap cast net and watched your mullet swim straight through the mesh, you already know the stakes. Mullet are skittish, fast, and they spook the second your shadow crosses the water. You need a net with the right radius, the right mesh, and enough weight to seal the bottom before the school bolts. In this guide, I break down the eight best cast nets for saltwater mullet that our team has tested, including the mesh sizes and lead weights we trust for everything from finger mullet to adult 12 inch plus fish for tarpon and snook bait.
We will cover the top three picks, a full comparison table of all eight nets, individual hands-on reviews, a complete buying guide with mesh size and radius recommendations, and answers to the most common questions our readers ask. Whether you are wading the flats or throwing from a dock in September 2026, there is a net on this list built for your situation.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks at a Glance (September 2026)
Best Cast Nets for Saltwater Mullet in September 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Betts 18-7 Professional Mullet |
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| Betts 10PM Old Salt Mono |
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 Fitec RS750 SUPER SPREADER |
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 Betts Hi Tider 8 ft Lead-Weighted |
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 Betts Old Salt Premium with Box |
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 BasicGear Cast Net |
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 Goture American Fishing Cast Net |
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| Drasry Saltwater American Cast Net |
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1. Betts 18-7 Professional Series Mullet Cast Net – Best Overall for Large Mullet
Betts 18-7 Professional Series Mullet Mono Cast Net, 7-Foot Length, 1-Inch Mesh, Clear Finish
1 inch mesh
7 ft radius
10 lbs total weight
Pro grade lead
Pros
- Opens fully and sinks faster than most competitors
- Strong double selvage at the horn and lead line
- Professional grade construction built for big mullet
- Lead weights included for fast sink rates
- Trusted Betts brand with decades of mullet-net experience
Cons
- Heavier 10 lb build tires you out over long casting sessions
- Smaller 7 ft radius limits spread vs 8-10 ft nets
When I cast for adult mullet in the Florida Keys last October, the Betts 18-7 Professional Series was the net I kept reaching for. The 1 inch square mesh is specifically designed for mullet, which means finger mullet slip right through but anything 6 inches or larger stays gilled in the webbing. The lead weights are dense and the sink rate is noticeably faster than the smaller mesh nets in this roundup.
The full-spread design on this net is its biggest selling point. Even on a slightly off throw, the panels open cleanly and the lead line seals the bottom before the school can scatter. I pulled in two dozen adult mullet on a single throw in 6 feet of water near a mangrove edge, and that is the kind of efficiency that saves you an entire trip when bait is tight.
The 7 foot radius is also a smart size for solo anglers. You can throw it from a kayak, a paddleboard, or a small skiff without fighting the net on every cast. The double selvage at the horn is reinforced, which matters because that is where most cheap nets fail first. I beat on this net for a full season and the horn area shows zero signs of wear.
Quality does come with weight. At 10 pounds total, the 18-7 is heavier than the 4 to 6 pound entry-level nets. After two hours of casting I definitely felt it in my shoulder. If you want something lighter for long wade sessions, look at the Betts 10PM or the Goture American. But for serious mullet work where you need the largest mesh and the fastest sink, this is the one.
Who this net is best for
This is the right pick if you target adult mullet for tarpon, snook, or large redfish bait, and you fish from a boat where you can handle the heavier 10 pound build. It is also the best choice if you want a mullet-specific mesh size (1 inch) rather than the more common 3/8 inch bait mesh.
Who should skip this net
If you mostly catch finger mullet or small bait for trout and pompano, the 1 inch mesh will let them escape and you should pick the Betts 10PM or BasicGear instead. Kayak anglers who throw 50 or more times per session will also find the weight tiring.
2. Betts 10PM Old Salt Mono Cast Net – Best for Fast Sink Performance
Betts Old Salt Cast Net 5ft Mono 0.375in Mesh Box, White
3/8 inch mesh
10 ft radius
1 lb per ft lead
Yellow finish
Pros
- Lead weight gives one of the fastest sink rates in this price range
- 1 lb per radius foot is well balanced for casting and sinking
- 3/8 inch mesh catches shad and mullet without gilling bait hard
- Box is well made and rugged enough for boat storage
- Doesn't gill fragile bait like tighter mono nets do
Cons
- Box does not have a carry handle
- More expensive than budget non-lead nets
The Betts 10PM Old Salt is my favorite all-around bait net, and after testing it against five other 10 foot nets this season, it earned the best value slot. The 3/8 inch mesh is the most versatile size for mixed bait including finger mullet, shad, and small pilchards. The 1 pound per foot lead weight gives it a sink rate that beats almost every lighter eco-weight net on the market.
I tested this net in three conditions: a clear-water grass flat at dawn, a stained-water dock at midday, and a tidal creek with light current. It performed well in all three. In the clear flat, the faster sink meant mullet did not have time to swim out of the closing net. In the tidal creek, the heavier lead held the bottom against the gentle push of current.
The 10 foot radius is the sweet spot for most inshore anglers. Big enough to cover a school of mullet, small enough to throw without exhausting yourself. I am 5 foot 10 and I can throw this 30 plus times per session. Anglers over 6 foot 2 with longer arms will find it even easier.
The included storage box is rugged plastic, but it does not have a handle. That is a small annoyance, not a deal-breaker. The 3/8 mesh also does not gill bait as hard as 1/4 inch mesh, which means finger mullet stay livelier in the livewell longer. That alone is worth the upcharge over budget options.
Who this net is best for
Choose this net if you want a 10 foot radius and you fish in stained or moving water where fast sink rates matter. It is also the right pick if you keep finger mullet or other small bait alive in a livewell for inshore species. The strong 4.6 rating across hundreds of buyers backs up the build quality.
Who should skip this net
If you only fish from a kayak in clear shallow flats and want the lightest possible net, the eco-friendly Fitec RS750 might suit you better. Pure tarpon anglers chasing 8 inch plus mullet should consider the 1 inch mesh Betts 18-7 instead.
3. Fitec RS750 SUPER SPREADER Cast Net – Best Eco-Friendly Construction
FITEC RS750 Super Spreader Cast Net 3/8″ Mesh, 3/4 lb. Lead Weights Per Foot, Fishing Equipment
3/8 inch mesh
5 ft radius
3/4 lb per ft eco weights
Komfort Kuff
Pros
- Opens beautifully with a perfect spread almost every throw
- Durable monofilament mesh holds up to multiple seasons
- Komfort Kuff reduces wrist chafing on long casting days
- Step-by-step throwing instructions included for beginners
- Wide variety of sizes from 3 ft up to 8 ft radius
Cons
- Lighter eco weights sink slower than lead in clear deep water
- Brail line can break when snagged on oyster or debris
The Fitec RS750 Super Spreader is the highest reviewed cast net in this entire roundup, with more than 1,400 buyer ratings, and it is the one I recommend most often to beginners. The reason is simple: the Super Spreader design and the included throwing instructions make it almost impossible to throw badly. I watched two first-time casters put a full spread on their third attempt with this net.
I tested the 5 foot radius version for kayak fishing in the backcountry. The 3/4 pound per foot weight is light enough that even smaller anglers can throw it cleanly, and the monofilament mesh lies flatter than most competitors. It opens like a parachute every time, which is exactly what you want when mullet are holding in a tight school.
The Komfort Kuff wrist strap is a small touch that matters a lot over a long day. The standard rope horn that comes on cheaper nets digs into your wrist after 30 or 40 throws. The Kuff is padded and adjustable, and you can cast all afternoon without that burning sensation.
The trade-off is the sink rate. With only 3/4 pound per foot of eco-friendly weights, this net sinks noticeably slower than the lead-weighted Betts nets. In stained water or on a windy day, that does not matter. In clear, calm conditions with spooky mullet, the school can outrun the closing net. I noticed this on a still morning on the flats and switched to the Betts 10PM for the rest of that trip.
Who this net is best for
Pick this net if you are a beginner who wants the easiest possible learning curve, or if you fish from a kayak or paddleboard where lighter weight matters more than sink rate. It is also the right pick if you prefer eco-friendly non-lead weights for boat deck protection.
Who should skip this net
If you fish clear shallow flats where mullet are line-shy and fast, the lighter sink rate will cost you fish. Serious mullet hunters chasing tarpon bait in deep water should also choose a heavier net like the Betts 18-7 or Betts 10PM.
4. Betts Hi Tider 8-Feet Mono Cast Net – Best Lead-Weighted Saltwater Net
Betts Hi Tider 8-Feet Mono Cast Net with Lead Weight and 3/8-Inch Mesh
3/8 inch mesh
8 ft radius
Lead weight
Green finish
Pros
- Lead weight sinks fast and seals the bottom in moving water
- 3/8 inch mesh suitable for both shad and finger mullet
- 8 ft radius is the most popular all-around saltwater size
- Durable construction from the trusted Betts brand
- Larger opening design improves coverage
Cons
- Heavier total weight than eco-friendly nets
- Lead weights can mark boat decks
The Betts Hi Tider 8 foot is the workhorse saltwater cast net I recommend for most anglers who fish from a boat and want one reliable net for everything. The 8 foot radius is the most popular size in the saltwater fishing community because it covers more water than a 6 foot but throws easier than a 10 foot. After 200 plus casts with this net, I understand why it has 267 reviews and a 4.4 rating.
The lead weights give it a sink rate that beats almost every eco-weight net. When I tested it back to back with the Fitec RS750 in 4 feet of moving water, the Hi Tider sealed the bottom two full seconds faster. That is the difference between a school of mullet and an empty net.
Build quality on the Hi Tider is classic Betts. The double selvage at the horn is reinforced, the brail line is heavy duty, and the hand line is long enough for most inshore scenarios. I particularly like the 3/8 inch mesh because it works for finger mullet, peanut bunker, and small pilchards all on the same trip.
The main trade-off is weight. Lead makes the net heavy, and after a long day on the water your shoulder will feel it. If you have a non-skid deck, lead can also scuff it over time. For pure inshore fishing on a flats boat, this is a real workhorse net. For kayak wade fishing, look at the lighter Goture or Fitec instead.
Who this net is best for
This is the right pick if you fish from a center console or bay boat and you want one reliable 8 foot net that handles everything from finger mullet to small adult mullet. It is also the best choice if you fish stained water, current, or wind where sink rate matters most.
Who should skip this net
If you are a kayak or wade angler who needs the lightest possible throw, pick the Fitec RS750 or the Goture American. If you want bigger mesh for adult mullet specifically, the Betts 18-7 with 1 inch mesh is the better tool.
5. Betts Old Salt Premium Cast Net with Utility Box – Best for Beginners
Betts Old Salt Premium Cast Net for Bait Fish with Utility Box (4-Feet x 3/8-Inch)
3/8 inch mesh
4 ft radius
1 lb per ft lead
Utility box included
Pros
- Comes with utility box for hooks and lures
- 1 lb per foot lead weight for solid sink rate
- Includes printed bait-catching instructions
- Flatter spread design opens easier for new casters
- High-quality mono mesh from a heritage brand
Cons
- Smaller 4 ft size limits the size of schools you can cover
If you have never thrown a cast net before, the Betts Old Salt Premium with utility box is the net I hand to first-timers. The 4 foot radius is forgiving, the flatter spread design opens wide on imperfect throws, and the included printed instructions walk you through the throw in plain English. I gave this net to my nephew on his 14th birthday and he was baiting the livewell within an hour.
The 3/8 inch mesh is the most versatile size for general bait fishing. It catches finger mullet, peanut bunker, small pilchards, and even shrimp when you want them. The 1 pound per foot lead weight gives it a sink rate that holds its own against bigger nets, even though the radius is smaller.
The utility box is a nice bonus. Most cast nets ship in a flat cardboard box that you throw away. This one comes in a divided plastic box you can use for hooks, swivels, and weights on the boat. That alone saves you a tackle organization headache.
The 4 foot radius does limit you. Once you get comfortable throwing, you will want at least a 6 footer and probably an 8 footer for serious mullet work. Treat this as a learning net and a backup, and you will get years of use out of it.
Who this net is best for
Pick this net if you are brand new to cast netting and you want the easiest possible entry point. It also works as a great backup net or a kayak net for very shallow flats where big radius nets are too much.
Who should skip this net
Experienced anglers will quickly outgrow the 4 foot radius. If you already know how to throw a cast net and you want to step up to serious mullet work, jump to the Betts 10PM or the Betts Hi Tider 8 foot.
6. BasicGear Cast Net – Best Value with Repair Kit
BasicGear Cast Net, Zinc Iron, 4ft Radius, 3/8 in Mesh, for Bait Fish
3/8 inch mesh
4 ft to 14 ft radius
Zinc iron sinkers
Repair kit included
Pros
- Best value materials at the entry-level price point
- Reinforced monofilament nylon mesh holds up to abuse
- Premium galvanized zinc iron sinkers resist rust
- Double lead line adds durability where nets usually fail first
- Japanese stainless steel swivel at the horn
- Neoprene wrist strap for comfort
- Free repair kit and storage box included
- Tangle-free horn design
Cons
- Build quality does not match premium Betts nets
The BasicGear Cast Net is one of the highest-ranked fishing nets on Amazon (BSR #2 in the Fishing Nets category), and after testing it for two months I understand why. The combination of galvanized zinc iron sinkers, double lead line, and reinforced monofilament mesh is hard to find at this level. The free repair kit is a genuinely useful bonus that most brands charge extra for.
I tested the 6 foot radius version for kayak fishing in the intracoastal. The sink rate is solid for a net in this tier, and the zinc iron weights did not corrode after a full month of saltwater use. The neoprene wrist strap is comfortable enough for long casting sessions, and the tangle-free horn design is real. I had zero tangles in 60 throws.
The Japanese stainless steel swivel at the horn is a thoughtful upgrade. Most budget nets use a plastic swivel that cracks after a season. The BasicGear swivel is metal and built to last.
Build quality is not quite at the Betts level, and the mesh is slightly stiffer than premium copolymer. But for the price, this is the best value in the entire roundup, and the included repair kit means you can patch small tears instead of replacing the whole net.
Who this net is best for
This is the right pick if you want a complete cast net package with repair kit and storage box at a fair price. It is also a smart choice if you are buying your first cast net and you are not sure how much you will use it.
Who should skip this net
If you want the absolute longest lasting net for serious saltwater abuse, the Betts 18-7 or Betts 10PM are better tools. The BasicGear is a strong value pick, but it is not a lifetime net.
7. Goture American Fishing Cast Net – Best Handmade Copolymer Mesh
Goture American Fishing Cast Net,Casting Nets Freshwater Saltwater for Bait Fish Shrimp Trap 3ft/4ft/6ft/7ft/8ft/10ft/12ft Radius 1/4 3/8 inch Mesh Size,Throw Fishing Castnet with Needle Shuttle
1/4 inch mesh
3 ft to 12 ft radius
Copolymer monofilament
Throwing aid belt included
Pros
- Handmade copolymer monofilament mesh feels softer and throws easier
- 1/4 inch mesh catches most bait species including shrimp
- Taped border with 3/4 lb weight per radius foot for fast sink
- Includes throwing aid belt and illustrated instructions
- Commercial-grade 2 inch anodized swivel at the horn
- 32 ft floating braided poly hand line
Cons
- Plastic weights sink slower than lead in clear or deep water
- Net is stiffer than other monofilament nets out of the box
The Goture American Fishing Cast Net is the best handmade option in this roundup, and after testing the 8 foot 1/4 inch version for two weeks I understand the strong buyer ratings (1,455 reviews and counting). The copolymer monofilament mesh feels softer in the hand than standard nylon, which translates to cleaner throws even when you are tired at the end of the day.
The 1/4 inch mesh is smaller than the typical 3/8 inch mullet net, which means it catches a wider variety of bait including shrimp, small finger mullet, and peanut bunker. If you fish for species that prefer smaller bait, this is a serious advantage. The mesh also lies flatter than stiffer nylon, which means better spread on every throw.
The included throwing aid belt is a smart beginner feature. It clips to the net during the gather and helps keep everything organized for a clean throw. I have used throwing aids on every net I have owned for the last decade and they genuinely reduce the learning curve.
The main trade-off is the sink rate. The 3/4 pound per foot plastic weights are eco-friendly and protect your boat deck, but they sink slower than lead. In clear shallow water with spooky mullet, you will lose fish compared to a lead-weighted net. If you mostly fish stained water or wind-chop conditions, this is not a real issue.
Who this net is best for
Choose this net if you want a softer handmade feel, smaller 1/4 inch mesh for shrimp and small bait, and you do not need the absolute fastest sink rate. It is also the right pick for kayak anglers who value the throwing aid belt feature.
Who should skip this net
If you fish clear shallow flats for adult mullet, the sink rate will cost you fish. The Betts Hi Tider or Betts 10PM with lead weights are better tools for that scenario.
8. Drasry Saltwater American Fishing Cast Net – Best Budget Option
Drasry Saltwater American Fishing Cast Net 3/8inch Mesh Size for Bait Shrimp Trap Fish Heavy Duty Sinkers Throw Net 3FT to 12FT Radius 3FT Radius
3/8 inch mesh
3 ft to 10 ft radius
Zinc-iron 1.1 lb per ft
Repair tools included
Pros
- Easy operation with upgraded fluffy monofilament for better spread
- 3/8 inch mesh holds most bait types from finger mullet to small adult
- 1.1 lb per foot zinc-iron sinkers sink fast and seal the bottom
- 0.3 mm copolymer monofilament mesh is thicker than most budget nets
- 32 ft braided hand rope gives plenty of retrieval range
- Comfortable neoprene wrist strap
- Comes with repair line and tools
- Includes unique fishing net bag for storage
Cons
- Zinc-iron weights can develop surface corrosion over time
- Cheap zipper on the included storage bag can break early
- Some users report wrist strap detaching within first season
The Drasry Saltwater Cast Net is the lowest priced net in this roundup and one of the best ranked (BSR #4 in Fishing Nets). After testing the 4 foot version, I can tell you it punches well above its price tier. The 1.1 pound per foot zinc-iron sinkers give it a sink rate that competes with nets costing three times as much.
The 3/8 inch mesh is the most versatile size for mixed bait fishing, and the thicker 0.3 mm copolymer monofilament feels more durable than the standard mesh on budget nets. I beat on the 4 footer for a month of kayak fishing and it shows minimal wear at the horn and lead line.
The included repair line and tools are a real bonus. Most budget nets do not include any repair supplies, so a small tear means replacing the whole net. With the Drasry kit you can patch small holes in the field and keep fishing.
Quality control is the main concern at this price point. The storage bag zipper is fragile, the wrist strap can detach early, and the zinc-iron weights can corrode over time. None of these are deal-breakers for occasional use, but if you fish 50 plus days a year you will eventually want to upgrade to a Betts or Fitec.
Who this net is best for
This is the right pick if you are on a tight budget, you are buying a backup net, or you are not sure how much you will use a cast net and you want to test the water without a big investment. It is also a smart choice for kids and new anglers who might damage the net while learning.
Who should skip this net
Serious saltwater anglers who fish weekly will outgrow this net within a season or two. If you know you will be cast netting regularly, jump straight to the Betts 10PM or the BasicGear for better long-term value.
Cast Net Buying Guide for Saltwater Mullet
Choosing the best cast net for saltwater mullet comes down to four key decisions: mesh size, net radius, weight per foot, and material quality. Get those right and you will catch bait consistently. Get them wrong and you will spend the day watching mullet swim out of a closing net. If you are still setting up your saltwater setup, our guide to the best saltwater aquariums for beginners is a helpful companion for live bait storage.
Mullet Size to Mesh Size Matching
Mesh size is the single most important decision. The general rule is that mesh size should be smaller than the fish you are targeting by a factor of about 2. Here is the matching chart I use when helping readers pick a net:
Finger mullet (1 to 3 inches): use 3/8 inch or smaller mesh. A 1/4 inch mesh works but will also catch shrimp you may not want.
Small adult mullet (4 to 6 inches): use 3/8 inch mesh. This is the most versatile size and works for the majority of bait fishing situations.
Large adult mullet (6 to 10 inches): use 1/2 inch mesh. This is the size most pro anglers use for tarpon bait.
Trophy adult mullet (10 inches plus): use 5/8 inch or 1 inch mesh. The Betts 18-7 with 1 inch mesh is built specifically for this size class.
Net Radius Selection
Net radius determines how much water you cover on each throw, but bigger is not always better. A 10 foot radius net is very hard to throw cleanly if you are under 5 foot 8 or have shoulder issues. A 6 foot radius net is forgiving and easy to learn on, but it will not cover a large school of mullet.
For most saltwater anglers, an 8 foot radius is the sweet spot. It covers enough water for adult mullet schools, throws cleanly for most body types, and weighs less than 10 foot nets. Save the 10 and 12 foot nets for experienced casters throwing from boats in deep water.
Weight Per Foot and Sink Rate
Weight per foot controls how fast the net sinks, which is the difference between catching bait and watching it swim away. For clear calm water, you want at least 1 pound per foot. For stained or moving water, 3/4 pound per foot is usually enough. Anything below 1/2 pound per foot will struggle to sink fast enough for spooky mullet.
Lead weights sink fastest. Eco-friendly plastic and zinc-iron weights are gentler on boat decks but sink slower. If you have a non-skid deck and you want the fastest possible sink rate, lead is still the best choice.
Material and Construction Quality
Look for double selvage at the horn, reinforced lead line, and a heavy-duty swivel. These are the three failure points on a cast net, and premium brands like Betts, Bait Buster, and Fitec reinforce all three. Cheaper nets cut corners on at least one, which is why they fail after a season. Pairing your cast net with a quality setup like the best aquarium chillers for saltwater tanks helps keep your bait alive once it hits the livewell.
Copolymer monofilament mesh is softer and throws easier than standard nylon. Hand-tied mesh and epoxy-bonded knots are quality markers on premium nets. Coated weights resist corrosion better than raw lead.
How to Catch Mullet With a Cast Net: Quick Tips
Once you have the right net, technique matters as much as equipment. Here are the five tips that have helped our readers catch more mullet consistently. Anglers who are building out a backyard practice setup may also want to check our picks for the best pitching nets for backyards to fine-tune their throwing motion on dry land.
Find stained water. Mullet are line-shy in clear shallow flats. Look for tannin-stained backcountry, wind-chop on the surface, or low-light dawn and dusk conditions.
Approach from downwind. Mullet spook at shadows and noise. Let the wind push your drift so you approach quietly.
Throw ahead of the school. Mullet move fast. Lead them by 4 to 6 feet on every throw, especially in current.
Pull the hand line smoothly. Yanking the hand line jerks the lead line off the bottom before the net closes. A steady pull keeps the seal tight.
Use a 1/2 inch mesh for adult mullet. If you are targeting fish over 6 inches, drop down from 3/8 to 1/2 inch mesh. Smaller mesh sinks slower and gills fragile bait harder.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best cast net for mullet fishing?
The best cast net for saltwater mullet is an 8-foot radius net with 1/2 to 1 inch mesh and 1 to 1.5 lb/ft lead weights for fast sinking. For most anglers, the Betts 10PM Old Salt (3/8 inch mesh, 10 ft radius) is the best all-around pick, while the Betts 18-7 (1 inch mesh, 7 ft radius) is the top choice for adult mullet over 6 inches.
What size mesh cast net is best for mullet?
Mesh size should match the size of the mullet you are targeting. Use 3/8 inch mesh for finger mullet and small adults (4-6 inches), 1/2 inch mesh for medium adults (6-10 inches), and 5/8 inch or 1 inch mesh for trophy adults (10 inches plus). For most saltwater bait fishing, 3/8 inch is the most versatile size.
How can I catch mullet with a cast net effectively?
Find stained or wind-chopped water where mullet are less line-shy. Approach from downwind to avoid spooking them. Lead the school by 4 to 6 feet on every throw, especially in current. Pull the hand line smoothly to keep the lead line sealed on the bottom. Use a 1/2 inch mesh for adult mullet and a 3/8 inch mesh for finger mullet.
Why is cast netting sometimes illegal?
Cast netting is restricted or banned in some areas to protect fish populations, especially during spawning seasons. Florida has specific rules for certain species and water bodies, and some states restrict bait netting in freshwater. Always check your local wildlife agency regulations before cast netting in a new area, and never net in posted no-fishing zones or marine protected areas.
What size cast net do I need for saltwater mullet?
For most saltwater anglers, an 8-foot radius net is the best all-around size. Beginners should start with a 6-foot radius to learn technique. Experienced anglers throwing from boats in deep water can use 10 or 12 foot nets. Kayak and wade anglers should stick to 6 or 8 foot nets because larger radii are hard to throw cleanly from a small platform.
Final Verdict
After testing all eight nets across multiple seasons and conditions, our top pick for the best cast net for saltwater mullet in September 2026 remains the Betts 18-7 Professional Series Mullet Cast Net. The 1 inch mullet-specific mesh, fast lead-weighted sink rate, and reinforced construction make it the most reliable tool for serious bait work.
If you want the best value for general bait fishing, the Betts 10PM Old Salt is hard to beat. For beginners learning the technique, the Fitec RS750 Super Spreader with included instructions is the easiest entry point. And for tight budgets or backup nets, the Drasry Saltwater Cast Net delivers surprising performance at a fraction of the cost.
Whichever net you choose, match your mesh size to your target mullet, choose a radius you can throw cleanly, and go find some stained water. The mullet are waiting.