Permit Tackle & Equipment

There are very few permit in the Bahamas. However, they are occasionally seen so if you want to have a rod rigged up, below is what we suggest. Permit in the Bahamas range in size from 3 – 30 pounds. Most often you will sight permit in deeper water (4 to 6 feet), along the edge flats or at the top of a high tide change. We recommend taking a 9 or 10 weight rod if you are after permit and having it rigged and ready in the boat.

Fly Rods:
We suggest 9’, 4 piece travel rods in 9 or 10 weights. We like fast tapered fly rods that generate high line speed. Rods that have been especially designed for the rigors of saltwater fly-fishing are the best choice. In that category we like rods built by Sage, Scott, and Winston.

Fly Reels:
Fly reels specifically designed for saltwater fly fishing are important. Features to look for in reels are smooth drags, plenty of backing capacity, and a sturdy, machined, aluminum, one-piece anodized frame. Large arbor reels are a great choice and take up line and backing very quickly. Reels to consider include those built by Hardy, Abel, Galvan, Ross and Hatch.

Fly Lines:
The Scientific Anglers and Rio saltwater floating lines are a couple of our favorite permit lines. They cast permit crab and shrimp flies with ease, and both are very accurate.

Leaders:
Fluorocarbon leaders are your best choice for permit as they are virtually invisible in water, and highly abrasion resistant. Fluorocarbon 9’ leaders and tippet in 16 & 20 lb. test are standard.

Permit Flies:
There are a lot of permit flies marketed these days, and here are a few of them that have hooked permit.