Umpqua Del Brown's Permit Crab Fly

Overview

The Permit Crab is Del Brown's crab pattern, better known as the Merkin, which he and Captain Steve Huff developed in the Florida Keys in the mid-1980s. Decades later it is still a standard permit fly.

Permit eat crabs more than anything else, and a fleeing crab dives for the bottom. This fly has a yarn body trimmed flat, splayed rubber legs and heavy lead eyes, so it lands, tips forward and sinks quickly like a crab heading for cover. Once it hits the bottom it sits nose down, which is often when a permit tips up and eats.

How to Fish It

• Lead the fish: cast far enough ahead of a cruising permit that the fly reaches the bottom as the fish arrives.
• Let it sink: after the cast, let it drop. A crab that dives and hides is what permit expect.
• Small strips: if the fish follows without eating, a short strip or two can trigger it. If it tips down on the fly, stop moving and strip set when you feel weight.
• Gear: a 9 or 10 weight rod and a 10 to 12 foot leader with 16 to 20 lb fluorocarbon tippet are typical for permit.

Choosing Color and Size

Choose 1/0 for larger permit, deeper water and wind, where the extra weight helps it get down. Choose 2 for shallow flats, tailing fish and bonefish, where a quieter landing matters.