Permit is a fish with an identity crisis. Because it appears strikingly similar to the Florida pompano, many anglers mistake it for that more popular, commercially marketed fish. Even scientists have gathered little in-depth information on permit. However, among those in the know, the species has carved out a niche as a popular sport fish and prime table fare. To distinguish adult permit from pompano, one need only remember the saying "Size matters." Permit can grow to more than double the length of pompano and several times the weight. A 15- to 20-pound permit is a common sight, and the fish can easily exceed 3 feet in length. At smaller sizes, the distinction between the two species might not be as obvious. However, a good rule of thumb is a simple color check: Small permit have orange patches on their chins, fins, or bellies; pompano have yellow coloring in those areas. Permit can live long lives. In a study of specimens from Tampa Bay and the Florida Keys, a 3-foot permit was aged at 23 years. Because this species can grow about an additional foot, researchers believe its life span may be even longer. For a permit in Florida, life typically begins in spring or summer, though spawning in the Keys may occur year-round. Permit are multiple-batch spawners, meaning one fish can produce and shed eggs more than once a season. Reproduction typically takes place offshore over reefs 33 to 100 feet deep. Dorsal spines (total): 6 - 7; Dorsal soft rays (total): 18-21; Anal spines: 2-3; Anal soft rays: 16 - 18. Dorsal and anal fins have very long, dark anterior lobes (Ref. 26938). No scutes; a broad patch of orange-yellow on abdomen in front of anal fin; pectoral fins blackish