The permit fish, a species of Carangidae, is found in the western Atlantic Ocean, Massachusetts to southeastern Brazil, and the Gulf of Mexico. They have a distinct shape, long snout, and small mouth, making them a valuable predator and prey in the marine ecosystem.
Permit fish are a unique, oval-shaped gamefish with a yellowish-brown back, fins, and eyes. They can grow up to 50 inches in length and weigh up to 35 pounds. They are highly sought after for their size, strength, and fighting ability. Permit fish are commonly found in shallow waters, coral reefs, mangroves, estuaries, and lagoons. Techniques for targeting permit include flats fishing, fly fishing, and popping cork fishing.
Permit fish, a larger and more powerful species, are often mistaken for pompanos. They can be ultra-suspicious, spooky, and difficult to catch on light tackle. In the western hemisphere, they are part of the big three inshore game fish, including bonefish and tarpon.
