Permit - Trachinotus falcatus
Florida Record 56lb. 2oz.

Feeding patterns and unique characteristics:
Permit, with out a doubt, have long been considered the ‘crown jewel’ of all of our flats species. They are by far the most finicky of feeders, the most tenacious of fighters and have a sense of smell that rivals most other fish. Permit prefer the deeper channels when not feeding, then venture onto the flats to forage on crabs, small clams and shrimp. Any well presented small crab will for sure get a look-see, this is the only vice they seem to have. The Permit have been gifted with exceptional eye-sight, more times that not, they will charge your bait, perform their circle dance around it and at the last second refuse it only to leave you holding the rod in utter shock.

What you and your guide are looking for:
When stalking your permit, there are a few things you and your guide want to look for.

"Fins & Tails" – When the Permit are in the skinny water feeding, they orientate their body so that their head can root through the grass, rousing up crabs and small shrimp. When they do this sometimes their tails and dorsal fin sticks through the water, like little black sticks. They usually do not move around to much, only a few inches at a time, this would be considered the ultimate opportunity to present your crab. If you can see which way they are orientated, place it three or four feet in front of them and let it drop to the bottom, if they don’t notice it right away, a few twitches should catch their attention.

"Cruisers" – When Permit are cruising the flats, they are looking for food, but are on the highest alert for predators. If you present the bait right on their heads, they will run from the attacking crab at warp speed, actually a sight that is pretty neat to watch. If you present the crab several feet in front of them and allow it to settle to the bottom, there is an excellent chance of a take. If for some reason they do not see the delicacy that has been offered, move it a little and hold your breath, if still no take, move the crab very lowly until he notices what its trying to get away.

When are they hungry?:
Like most flats species, Permit prefer water temps from the mid 70’s to the mid 80’s. The Permit fishing is great before they head offshore for their spring spawn. Mid January through the first full moon in April is great, then from the first full moon in June right on through the latter part of November.