World-Class Permit Provide Challenge

The permit in Ascension Bay are among the largest in the world – 16- to 30-lb. permit are frequently found here. The estuary here is a breeding ground for crabs, the permit’s main diet.

And they’re plentiful too. The smaller permit are in larger schools, while the big guys stay alone or with just a few other bruiser-size buddies. You’ll spot them cruising in erratic patterns in two- to eight-foot-deep water.

Permit are the most difficult fish to land in the bay.  You must move the fly exactly like a live a shrimp to entice them. Spinning fishermen have an advantage over fly fishermen since they can use live crabs for bait.

• Review the fly-fishing equipment recommendations

• Review the spinning gear and equipment recommendations

• Review our accessories checklist