Crystal River Mullet Run
A spring-fed river famous for manatees, running out through marsh and islands to Crystal Bay and the Gulf.
Updated September 27, 2026
About Crystal River
Springs keep Crystal River's water temperature steady year-round, which makes the Gulf side the thing to watch. As fall fronts chill the shallow bay outside, mullet that summered in the river and marsh move offshore.
The river is heavily used by manatees and paddlers; slow down and follow the posted zones.
Why fish here during the run
- Big schools of mullet summer in the river and its marsh.
- The contrast between warm spring water and a cooling bay sharpens the exit.
- Redfish and trout feed along the islands at the river mouth.
Angler tips
- Focus on the river mouth and bay islands rather than upriver.
- Falling tides after a front are the best bet.
- Respect manatee zones — they are enforced.
Access & conditions notes
- Public ramps are available in town and near the river mouth.
- Wind, pressure, and water temperature come from the NOAA Cedar Key station.
- River data is read from the USGS Crystal River gauge (tidally averaged).
Map pin: 28.9050°N, 82.7200°W · Crystal River mouth and Crystal Bay; met via Cedar Key
Recent sightings
Eyewitness and attributed Instagram reports connected to this beach.
No sightings connected to Crystal River yet.
Nearby stations
Cedar Key & Suwannee River →
The Suwannee River mouth and the island town of Cedar Key — marsh, oyster bars, and a big river that sets the pace of the Big Bend run.
Homosassa River →
A spring-fed river winding through marsh to the Gulf — the southern end of the Big Bend, and a famous name in fall and spring tarpon lore.