Fly Fish for Permit: Tips on Picking a Destination
Fly fishing for permit is one of the most exciting and challenging experiences in saltwater fly fishing. Permit are known for their elusiveness, picky eating habits, and strong fights. This makes them a prized catch for any angler seeking adventure. Fly fish for permit and picking a destination go hand-in-hand. Choosing the right location can make all the difference. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a first-timer, selecting the proper destination can greatly improve your chances of landing this prized fish.
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Understanding Permit
Before we dive into the destinations, let’s talk about permit. These fish are not called the “ghost of the flats” for nothing. Their incredible eyesight and sensitivity to noise mean you’ll need to approach with stealth. Permit are easily spooked and won’t hesitate to bolt at the slightest disturbance.
Picking Your Permit Destination
When considering where to fly fish for permit, there are several options that stand out. Keep in mind; each location has its peak season and unique characteristics. Research plays a key role in ensuring your trip aligns with the best time for permit fishing in that area.
Belize: A Permit Paradise
Belize often tops the list of sought-after permit destinations, and for good reason. This Central American country boasts the largest permit flats on the planet. It’s not uncommon to encounter large schools of permit in these nutrient-rich waters. You will find many experienced fishing guides in Belize
Permit Graphic Fishing Hoodie
Stalking Permit requires great sun protection. A UPF-50 Graphic Permit Fishing Hoodie is the perfect piece of saltwater fishing apparel.
Mexico: Yucatan Peninsula’s Bounty
Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula, particularly Ascension Bay, is another prime location. This area, often less crowded than some of its counterparts, offers great opportunities to find those elusive permit. You’ll find tailing permit here along with those cruising behind rays for an added challenge.
The Bahamas: Berry Islands
While many may think of bonefish when The Bahamas come up, permit actually call these waters home. Travis Sands, an experienced guide who spent years at Abaco Lodge (prior to Hurricane Dorian in 2018), now operates out of Soul Fly Lodge in the Berry Islands. Sands discovered a thriving permit fishery and seized the chance to create a haven for those seeking these challenging fish.
Soul Fly Lodge, being the sole fishing lodge in the entire Berry Islands chain, presents a singular opportunity for anglers to explore these waters. If you are looking to combine your fly fishing adventure with luxurious accommodations, consider Copal Tree Lodge in Southern Belize. This is a great place to target other species such as giant trevally.
Florida Keys
Don’t overlook the Sunshine State. The Florida Keys are known for hosting larger permit. While the numbers might not compare to places like Belize or Mexico, landing a trophy-sized permit is a real possibility here. The Florida Keys also provide opportunities for sight-fishing in shallow waters as well as fishing the deeper channels – techniques seasoned permit anglers employ. If proximity to the US is a factor, then this is your spot. Learn more about fly fishing in the Florida Keys and history of Key West.
Baja Mexico: Pacific Permit
Palapas Ventana is the ideal destination for Pacific Permit excursion.
Pacific Permit are smaller than Caribbean Permit ranging from 6 to 15 lbs., though larger Pacific Permit can be caught. While Caribbean Permit can reach 30 pounds.
On the Pacific Indo-Permit territory covers the Indian Ocean, Australia, and Southeast Asia.
In conclusion both are stalked by fly anglers. Pacific and Caribbean Permits off rewards and distinct challenges.
Gearing Up: Fly Selection and Equipment for Permit
A 9-weight rod is the generally recommended minimum, but many anglers prefer going up to a 10-weight saltwater fly rod, especially if wind is a factor. You will need a reel with a smooth drag and enough backing for long runs – remember those permit are known for their strength. You will also need to make longer casts.
Since permit are crustacean lovers, crab patterns are a go-to. Have a good selection of crab flies in various sizes and colors. Some anglers swear by realistic imitations while others prefer patterns with a bit more flash and movement to attract attention. It’s wise to experiment to see what the permit prefer in your chosen destination. You may even get a day where you get a permit close enough to your boat to be able to see its dorsal fins.
Essential Gear
Use the following table to help make sure you have everything you need before your trip:
| Essential Gear | Notes |
|---|---|
| Fly Rods | 9 or 10-weight fast action |
| Fly Reel | Saltwater resistant with a smooth drag and sufficient backing (at least 200 yards of 20 lb) |
| Fly Line | Weight-forward floating fly line matched to your rod weight |
| Leaders and Tippets | 9 to 12 feet leader with a 16 to 20-lb tippet |
| Flies | Crab patterns (Merkin Crab, Del Brown’s Permit Crab) as well as shrimp patterns |
| Polarized Sunglasses | Spotting those permit is critical |
| Wading Boots | Depending on your chosen destination |
| Sun Protection | Long sleeve shirts, hats and sunscreen are your friends on the flats |
Beyond the Hunt: Embrace the Experience
Fly fishing for permit, more than many other fish, requires patience. Don’t be surprised if you experience some frustration along the way. Remember though, success isn’t measured by how many fish you bring to the boat, but by moments like these. The excitement builds. The anticipation is high.
Then, a flash of silver, a tug on the line – and you are in the midst of a battle you won’t forget. Fly fish for permit and picking a destination is an adventure waiting for those ready to pursue the ghost of the flats. It’s about the experience of being on the water, making that perfect cast, and feeling the thrill when a permit takes your fly. Even if it doesn’t result in a catch, the pursuit itself is a reward.
FAQs about Fly Fish for Permit and Picking a Destination
Can you keep fish from fly fishing?
Generally no. It is standard practice in fly fishing to release all fish caught, especially when targeting species like permit, bonefish and tarpon. They are part of a fragile ecosystem and play an important role in keeping these fisheries healthy. This “catch and release” method promotes conservation and helps preserve the enjoyment of future generations.
What weight fly rod for permit?
Most experts agree that a 9 or 10 weight fly rod is the sweet spot for targeting permit. The extra backbone is key when fighting these fish – especially when they make powerful runs and challenge your gear to the limits.
What is the permit capital of the world?
Belize often gets dubbed this title by anglers. The vast, shallow flats and healthy permit population have solidified it’s place as a prime destination. If catching a permit is your goal, Belize should definitely be on your list. Many anglers experience “permit fever” after fishing here and are already planning their next trip back before even leaving.
Are permit fish hard to catch?
Well, they certainly have a reputation for it. Permit are very spooky fish. Combine that with their tendency to refuse a fly if the presentation isn’t perfect and landing one becomes a true testament to your angling skills.
Remember; every encounter teaches a lesson in pursuit of the “gray ghosts.” Even experienced fly fishermen will attest to how hard it can be to outsmart a permit on the fly. You will want to practice casting accuracy before your trip as that is a big factor in the success of catching permit. This is why many anglers refer to permit as the holy grail of fly fishing.
Conclusion of Fly Fish for Permit
Fly fish for permit and picking a destination is not as challenging as you might think, but selecting a known area with ample fish populations greatly increases your chances of success. Be sure to pick the right destination, pack accordingly, have a few extra flies on hand and you just might land your dream permit. Most importantly, relax, have fun and embrace the challenge because the memories are just as rewarding as the catch.
