Those tempted to take a fish for the table would do well to dwell on the species' lifestyle. A fish of many years, spent sucking mud from estuaries polluted with PCBs, pesticides and heavy metals. A fish that favours feeding at sewage outfalls, may make a potent dish. It is growing recognition of the vulnerability of this long-lived species that has moved the NMC to promote catch and release. All NMC competitions, fish ins and trophies demand that any fish caught is returned unharmed.
Any member attempting to sell their catch faces certain expulsion.
But it is recognised that these restrictions on individual members do little to counter the growing exploitation of mullet, as commercials, having depleted other stocks, turn to mullet to make up the gap in their income. Like BASS members before them, the NMC knows that it must take all possible steps to publicise the plight of their favourite species, or perhaps become the last generation to enjoy such sport.