Fishing for Permit in Biscayne Bay, Florida: A Light Tackle Angler’s Guide

The warm, clear waters of  Miami’s Biscayne Bay, Florida, are home to some of the most sought-after game fish in the world, including permit. Permit fishing is a challenge that many anglers dream of taking on, as it requires patience, skill, and a deep understanding of the fish and their habitat. In this article, we will explore the world of permit fishing in Biscayne Bay, discussing the equipment a light tackle angler would need, interesting facts about permit, the best time of year to fish for permit, and considerations for hiring a Miami flats fishing guide.

Equipment for Light Tackle Anglers

Permit fishing is often done with light tackle, as the fish are known for their agility and strength. A light tackle angler would typically use a 7- to 8-foot spinning rod with a fast action and a reel with a strong drag system. A braided line with a 10-20-pound test is recommended, along with a fluorocarbon leader of 12- to 20-pound test. Permit are also a challenged by fly fisherman all around, and Miami’s Biscayne Bay is one of the best areas in south Florida to target them. When it comes to bait, permit can be caught using a variety of live and artificial baits, including crabs, shrimp, and jigs. Fly fishing for permit require a 9 or 10 wt fly rods with a crab or shrimp pattern and 10 – 12 foot leaders.  

Interesting Facts about Permit

1. Permit are often referred to as one of the hardest fish to catch with a fly rod. 
2. Permit are known for their impressive size and strength, with the average adult fish weighing between 25 and 40 pounds.
3. Permit are a popular game fish in the Florida Keys and are often caught in shallow water flats.
4. Permit are members of the jack family and are closely related to pompano.

Permit fishing

Best Time of Year to Fish for Permit in Biscayne Bay

Permit can be caught in Biscayne Bay year-round, but the best time of year to fish for them is from mid February through April and mid June through October. During this time, the water temperature is warm and the fish are most active. It is also important to pay attention to the tides, as permit tend to feed during incoming and outgoing tides.

Considerations for Hiring a Fishing Guide in Miami

If you are planning to fish for permit in Biscayne Bay, hiring a fishing guide can be a great way to increase your chances of success. When choosing a guide, there are a few things to consider:

1. Experience: Look for a guide who has extensive experience fishing for permit in Biscayne Bay. A seasoned guide will have a deep understanding of the fish and their behavior, as well as the best techniques for catching them.
2. Equipment: Make sure your guide has top-quality equipment, including a well-maintained boat and fishing gear.
3. Reputation: Read reviews and ask for recommendations from other anglers to find a guide with a solid reputation for professionalism and success.

Fishing for permit in Biscayne Bay is an exciting and challenging pursuit for any angler. With the right equipment, knowledge of the fish, and a skilled guide, you can increase your chances of landing this elusive game fish. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a beginner, a day on the water in pursuit of permit is sure to be a memorable experience.