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Mullet Net Mesh Size NZ — MPI Rules + What Actually Works
What mesh size do you need for a mullet net in New Zealand? It depends on where you fish and what type of net you use. Get it wrong and your net is illegal — or it simply won't catch fish. This guide covers the MPI rules and practical advice from experience.
The Short Answer
100mm mesh is legal everywhere in NZ for mullet set nets and drag nets. It's the safest choice if you fish in multiple areas.
90mm mesh is legal for drag nets in some areas (mainly North Island). It catches more fish but check your local rules first.
MPI Mesh Size Rules for Mullet (2026)
| Net Type | Minimum Mesh | Where Legal |
|---|---|---|
| Set net | 100mm | All of NZ |
| Drag net | 100mm | All of NZ |
| Drag net | 90mm | Some North Island areas only (check locally) |
| Drag net | 85mm | Very limited areas — drag only (check locally) |
⚠️ Important: These are minimum mesh sizes measured as stretched mesh. That means the mesh is pulled taut and measured corner to corner. Always check the current MPI rules for your specific area: MPI Fishing Rules →
What Mesh Size Actually Catches the Most Mullet?
100mm Mesh (4 inch)
- Pros: Legal everywhere, good all-round size, catches medium to large mullet (30cm+)
- Cons: Smaller mullet swim through
- Best for: Set nets, anywhere in NZ
→ Mullet Net 90mm & 100mm from $115
90mm Mesh (3.5 inch)
- Pros: Catches a wider range of mullet sizes, higher catch rate
- Cons: Not legal for set nets — drag net only in some areas
- Best for: Drag netting in North Island estuaries
→ Mullet Drag Net 90mm from $145
85mm Mesh (3.25 inch)
- Pros: Highest catch rate — catches smaller mullet too
- Cons: Very limited legal areas — drag only
- Best for: Specific North Island areas where permitted
→ MUD-1 40m Mullet Drag 85mm $299
Mono vs Multi-Mono — Does Mesh Type Matter?
Yes. The mesh material affects both catch rate and durability:
| Mono | Multi-Mono | |
|---|---|---|
| Visibility | Nearly invisible — better in clear water | Slightly more visible |
| Catch rate | Higher in clear conditions | Better in murky/dirty water |
| Durability | Good | Excellent — lasts longer |
| Price | Lower | Slightly higher |
| Holding power | Good for average mullet | Better for large mullet |
→ Multi-Mono Mullet Nets from $126
Common Mistakes
- Using the wrong mesh size for your area — always check MPI rules before you buy. A 90mm net that's legal in Kaipara might be illegal in your local harbour.
- Not measuring correctly — mesh size is measured as stretched mesh (pulled taut, corner to corner), not the opening size.
- Buying imported nets with non-standard sizes — some imported cast nets and set nets from overseas have mesh sizes that don't comply with NZ regulations. Always buy from a NZ manufacturer who knows the rules.
- Using a cast net for mullet — cast nets with 25mm (1-inch) mesh are NOT legal for targeting grey mullet. You need minimum 100mm mesh.
What We Recommend
If you're buying your first mullet net:
- Set net: 30m x 100mm mono — legal everywhere, easy to manage, great catch rate → from $133
- Drag net: 30m x 90mm mono — higher catch rate for drag netting where legal → from $145
Shop Mullet Nets
🇳🇿 NZ Made in Auckland. Free shipping. Best prices — direct from the manufacturer. Feed the Family.
Action Outdoors Limited | 348 Rosebank Road, Avondale, Auckland | 09 820 8023 | actionoutdoors.kiwi
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