For decades, the Bahamas has been synonymous with world-class fly fishing for bonefish. Anglers from around the globe flock to its crystalline flats for reliable action and trophy-sized bonefish. But tucked into that narrative is a quieter story—one that’s only recently beginning to gain traction: permit fishing in the Bahamas.

Why Hasn’t Permit Fishing Been Popular in the Bahamas in the Past?

According to Joe Linscott, Frontiers’ Bahamas Destination Expert, permit have always been there. Guides and anglers have bumped into them for years. “I can count the number of permit landed by clients in the Bahamas on both hands over my first twenty years,” Joe recalls. The reason? Focus. “Guides are paid to put people on bonefish, and they know they can deliver. Why risk a slow day chasing elusive permit when bonefish are plentiful, reliable, and rewarding?”

That equation is starting to change. More seasoned anglers, those who have caught their share of bones, are seeking new challenges. Social media has perhaps played a role as well, as fisheries and lodges in Mexico and Belize have seen increased demand from anglers to chase after permit like they’ve seen in posted photos. Bahamian lodge managers and guides have taken note and are beginning to target the species that’s been there all along. “You’re not going to see the same numbers as in Mexico or Belize,” Joe says, “but the ones you do see may be bigger, less pressured, and maybe more willing to eat.” In other words, the fishing for bonefish in the Bahamas has been too damn good to chase after the often-frustrating permit.

Why Consider Fishing for Permit in the Bahamas?

One of the Bahamas’ hidden strengths is the ability to maximize your fishing time on the water. Meaning, make the most of the full tide cycle. In many areas in the Bahamas, anglers wading or poling the flats experience their best fishing for bones during lower tide stages. During high tide, when bonefish push deep into the mangroves and become inaccessible, many guides traditionally just waited it out. Now, more are beginning to use that time to look for permit—which are often cruising during higher water.

In other words, fishing for permit in the Bahamas need not be an exclusive endeavor. You can still enjoy the incredible bonefishing that fly anglers love about the Bahamas.  Talk with you guide about using some of the day’s time to look for permit as the conditions allow and your preferences align.  And if the permit don’t cooperate? You may have to wait for a receding tide, but you still have some of the best bonefishing in the world to fall back on. It’s a win-win for the strategic angler.

Where to Go: Best Islands and Lodges for Permit Fishing

Permit aren’t spread evenly throughout the islands. Here are some ideas about where to focus your efforts:

• Abaco: Historically fairly consistent sightings, and home to both Abaco Lodge and the Delphi Club.
• Grand Bahama: Excellent access, big bones, and seasonally consistent permit sightings. Lodges like H2O Bonefishing and North Riding Point Club are top picks.
• Berry Islands: An emerging hotspot, thanks to Soul Fly Lodge. One client saw permit daily in January—a surprise, as sightings are typically more seasonal.

Southern Bahamas (Crooked, Acklins): Less developed, more exploratory, large permit possibilities. Note: some of these islands suffered catastrophic damage due to Hurricane Joaquin in 2019. We recommend that DIY anglers plan and prepare carefully.

When to Visit the Bahamas to Fish for Permit

Typically, April through October is prime time for permit in most regions, though sightings and catches can happen year-round. Summer brings warmer water and more reliable permit activity, but this is the “offseason” when some lodges will close. Given closures, late spring and early summer, as well as fall months are perhaps the best times to target. Some lodges like Abaco Lodge even offer dedicated “Permit Weeks” in June.

Plan Your Bahamas Fishing Trip with Frontiers Travel

Planning a permit-focused trip to the Bahamas isn’t as simple as picking dates and booking flights. Joe and the team at Frontiers play a crucial role in:

• Personalized Recommendations: Work with the lodge/outfitter to determine the best tides, moon phases, and lodge tendencies to steer you toward the best timing and guides.
• Local Advocacy: Act as a liaison with the lodge, making sure your fishing goals (including permit) are clearly communicated.
• Full-Service Travel Planning: From flights and transfers to gear tips and expectations, Frontiers offers door-to-door support.

“In a perfect world,” Joe says, “you’d come to me before you even pick your dates. We can pick the right window, the right tides, the right place—and give you the best shot at a permit.”

And if the permit don’t show? Well, chances are the Bahamas’ bonefish will be there.

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