The Permit
Permit (Trachinotus falcatus) is a saltwater fish species commonly found in the shallow waters of the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico, including the Florida coast. Permit is known for its elusive nature, making it a highly sought-after species among sport fishermen.
The permit has a distinctive appearance, characterized by its silver-colored body with dark, vertical stripes and a large, triangular dorsal fin. They typically grow to a length of 30 to 50 inches and weigh up to 50 pounds.
Permit are bottom feeders and feed on a variety of crustaceans and mollusks, using their sharp teeth to crack open their prey. They are also known to consume small fish, making them opportunistic feeders.
In Florida, permit are commonly found in the shallow waters of the flats, mangroves, and grass beds. They are often seen swimming near structures such as wrecks and reef systems, where they can hide and hunt for food. Permit are also known to migrate to deeper waters during the winter months and return to the shallows during the warmer months, making them a seasonal target for sport fishermen.
Permit fishing in Florida is considered to be a challenging and rewarding experience, as the species is known for its strength, agility, and fighting ability. They are often caught using live baits such as crabs and shrimp, as well as artificial lures such as jigs and flies.
In recent years, permit fishing has gained popularity in Florida, and many guide services offer permit fishing trips for both novice and experienced anglers. Permit are also a highly regulated species, with strict size and bag limits set by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission to ensure the sustainability of the species.
Permit is a highly prized gamefish in Florida, offering anglers a unique and challenging fishing experience. With its distinctive appearance, powerful fighting ability, and elusive nature, permit is a species that continues to captivate sport fishermen and is an integral part of Florida's rich fishing heritage.
Best Spots to Catch the Permit
Permit are most likely to be caught in the shallow waters of the Florida Keys and the Everglades National Park. These areas are known for their vast flats, mangroves, and grass beds, which provide ideal habitats for permit and the crustaceans and mollusks that they feed on.
The Florida Keys is a chain of islands located off the southern coast of Florida and is considered one of the top destinations for permit fishing in the state. The shallow waters of the Keys provide a perfect habitat for permit, as they are able to feed and hide in the dense seagrass beds and mangroves. Additionally, the clear, turquoise waters of the Keys allow anglers to easily spot permit and cast their lines in the right direction.
Similarly, the Everglades National Park is known for its vast flats, which are home to a diverse range of species, including permit. The shallow waters of the flats provide ideal habitats for permit, as well as for the small fish, crustaceans, and mollusks that they feed on. The grass beds of the Everglades also provide excellent cover for permit, making them difficult to locate but rewarding to catch.
The Best time for Catching the Permit
The best time of year and time of day to catch permit in Florida will vary depending on several factors, including water temperature, tides, and feeding patterns.
In general, the warm months of spring and summer, from April to August, are considered the best time of year to catch permit in Florida. During this time, permit are known to migrate to the shallow waters of the flats, mangroves, and grass beds to feed and breed. As water temperatures warm up, permit become more active, making them easier to locate and catch.
The best time of day to catch permit is during low light conditions, such as early in the morning or late in the evening, when they are most active and feeding. Permit are known to feed near the surface during these times, making them easier to spot and cast to. Additionally, low light conditions can also help anglers to see permit tailing in the shallows, which is a common behavior during feeding.
Tides also play a crucial role in the success of permit fishing. During incoming tides, permit are more likely to be found in the shallows, feeding on the crustaceans and mollusks that are being washed in from the deeper waters. During outgoing tides, permit will move to deeper waters to feed on the small fish that are being displaced from their feeding grounds.
In conclusion, the best time of year and time of day to catch permit in Florida will vary depending on several factors, including water temperature, tides, and feeding patterns. However, the warm months of spring and summer, during low light conditions, and during incoming tides, are considered the best times to target this highly prized gamefish.
What is the Ideal bait for the Permit
The ideal bait for permit varies depending on the location, the time of year, and the permit's feeding habits. However, there are several baits that are commonly used and proven to be effective for catching permit.
Crabs: Crabs are a highly effective bait for permit, as they are a natural food source for the species. Live crabs, or freshly caught dead crabs, are often used as bait for permit, as they mimic the natural prey that permit feed on.
Shrimp: Shrimp is another effective bait for permit, as they are a common food source for the species. Live or dead shrimp, either fresh or frozen, can be used as bait for permit.
Squid: Squid is a versatile bait for permit and can be fished either fresh or frozen. Squid is a common food source for permit and can be rigged in a variety of ways, making it a highly effective bait.
Jigs: Jigs are artificial lures that are designed to mimic the swimming action of small baitfish. Jigs can be tipped with a variety of natural or artificial baits, such as soft plastics or shrimp, making them an effective option for catching permit.
Flies: Flies are a popular and effective bait for permit, especially for fly fishing enthusiasts. A variety of fly patterns can be used to imitate the natural prey of permit, such as crabs or shrimp, making them a highly effective option.
The ideal bait for permit varies depending on the location, the time of year, and the permit's feeding habits. However, crabs, shrimp, squid, jigs, and flies are all commonly used and proven to be effective baits for catching this highly prized gamefish.
Suggested gears for catching the Permit
The right gear and fishing techniques for catching permit will vary depending on the location and the angler's preferred style of fishing. However, there are some general tips and techniques that can be followed to increase the chances of landing this highly prized gamefish.
When fishing for permit, it is important to have the right gear:
Fishing Rod
A lightweight, fast-action rod with a sensitive tip and a strong backbone is ideal for permit fishing, as it allows for accurate casting and the ability to quickly set the hook when a permit bites.
Fishing Reel
A reel with a good drag system and a strong backing is also important for fighting permit, as they are known to be strong fighters.
Fishing Line
A variety of fishing lines, from fluorocarbon to braided, can be used for permit fishing, depending on the fishing conditions and the angler's preference.
Fishing Techniques for Catching Red Snapper
There are several techniques that can be used to catch permit, including:
Live bait fishing: Live bait, such as crabs or shrimp, can be fished on the bottom or under a float to imitate the natural prey of permit.
Jig fishing: Jigs, tipped with soft plastics or shrimp, can be cast and retrieved to mimic the swimming action of small baitfish.
Fly fishing: Fly fishing is a popular technique for permit, and a variety of fly patterns can be used to imitate the natural prey of permit, such as crabs or shrimp.
Sight fishing: Sight fishing is a popular and effective technique for permit, especially in the shallow waters of the flats. During low light conditions, anglers can look for permit tailing in the shallows, and cast to them with a variety of baits or lures.
Presentation: Presentation is critical when fishing for permit. It is important to pay attention to the water depth, the speed of the retrieve, and the way the bait or lure is moving in the water. Permit are known to be wary, and a natural and realistic presentation of the bait or lure can make all the difference in getting a bite.
The right gear and fishing techniques for catching permit will vary depending on the location and the angler's preferred style of fishing. However, a lightweight rod, a good reel, a variety of fishing lines, and a range of techniques, including live bait fishing, jig fishing, fly fishing, and sight fishing, can all increase the chances of landing this highly prized gamefish.
Florida’s Rules and Regulations for the Permit
The rules and regulations for permit fishing in Florida are set by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) and are designed to protect the species and maintain sustainable populations. Some of the key regulations for permit fishing in Florida include:
Size Limits: In Florida, there is a minimum size limit for permit of 18 inches fork length, with a maximum of one fish per person per day.
Season: There is no closed season for permit fishing in Florida, but certain areas may have seasonal restrictions. Anglers should check the FWC website or consult with a local bait and tackle shop for up-to-date information on seasonal restrictions.
Methods of Take: In Florida, permit may be taken by hook-and-line, gig, spear, or bow and arrow. However, there are restrictions on the use of certain gear, such as gill nets and traps, in certain areas.
Bait and Lures: In Florida, live or dead bait, artificial lures, and flies may be used to catch permit. However, there are restrictions on the use of certain types of gear, such as multiple hooks or hooks with live or dead bait, in certain areas.
Bag Limits: In Florida, there is a bag limit of one fish per person per day for permit.
Size and Creel Limits: In Florida, there are size and creel limits for permit, and anglers are required to possess a valid fishing license and follow all FWC regulations.
Summary
The permit is a highly prized gamefish that is found in Florida waters. It is a challenging species to catch and requires the right gear, fishing techniques, and bait. The ideal time to catch permit in Florida is typically from spring through fall, during low light conditions and incoming tides. The most effective baits for permit include live bait, such as crabs and shrimp, as well as jigs, soft plastics, and flies. When fishing for permit, it is important to have the right gear, including a lightweight rod with a sensitive tip, a good reel with a strong drag system, and a variety of fishing lines. The rules and regulations for permit fishing in Florida are set by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) to protect the species and maintain sustainable populations. Anglers should be aware of size and bag limits, as well as seasonal restrictions, and possess a valid fishing license.
