The Tampa Bay Times
Offshore wrecks and artificial reefs are holding large schools of permit. Reliable coordinates are the main concern when heading offshore to locate permit. I have a network of friends, along with coordinates of my own that I can count on and trust to put me on fish. Permit will feed off the structure, eating barnacles, shrimp, and crabs. Before I head offshore, I will fill the well full of crabs the day before and keep them alive overnight with a portable aerator. The strongest outgoing tides towards the end of the day are the most productive way to locate crabs. The grass lines formed by the current will usually hold crabs. Once I get to my wreck of choice, I will anchor up using my new High Definition GPS trolling motor. All I have to do is put the trolling motor in the water and hit the “Anchor” button on the remote control. If I am off my mark a little, I can “Jog” the boat left or right with the touch of the arrow buttons. I do not have to worry about dropping a clunky anchor again. Due to the size of Permit; I like to use a little heavier tackle. Ten-pound gear will not work in deep water; it is just to light to pull large fish from deep water. Thirty-pound braid with a long thirty-pound fluorocarbon leader is needed to land these strong creatures. Permit have large eyes and will become leader shy if you use anything heavier than thirty-pound fluorocarbon. A large 6000 series reel capable of holding three hundred yards or better of line is needed. Permit will peel off line in seconds when first hooked.
Captain Rob Gorta
727-647-7606
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