Permit
Food Quality:
Avg. Length
18-36in
Avg. Weight
10-25lbs
World Record
60lbs
FL Record
56lbs 2oz
View Regulations
Scientific Name
Trachinotus falcatus
Common Names
Round pompano, Great pompano
Description
The Permit is a rounded, snub-nosed fish with flattened sides. Its coloration ranges from dark blue on its back to bluish green on its side, blending to a silvery white. Its belly is often yellow as well as its fins. It has a broadly forked tail and a dorsal and anal fin that begin at the same area, midway back from the head. Although it resembles the Florida Pompano it can be distinguished by its larger size and prominent ribs that can be felt under the skin.
Habitat & Behaviour
Permits can be found in warm coastal waters often in channels or drop-offs located in reef, sandy bottoms and occasionally muddy bottoms as well. Before they mature, Permits are known to travel in a school, its only after they mature when they become solitary fish.
Natural Prey
Permits have a steady diet of crustaceans, invertebrates and other bottom dwelling creatures.
Handling Tips
Netting them is ideal. Grab by tail and then put hand underneath by head to hold. Depends on size – do not gaff in case you need to release. They lay on their side when they are tired.
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