Hiya Matt,
I got it on a Merkin, hook size 1. We chased the pod of permit up and down the mangrove shore, going through the fly box as we went. Gave it three good shots per angler per fly then swapped over and changed the fly. The guide said our best chance was if the fish moved in close, right up against the mangroves. They did and I was lucky enough to be standing on the pointy end of the boat at the time.
The fight was scary, several long searing runs, sometimes towards the mangroves or close in along the shore. I was convinced it'd get snagged and break me but I guess the fishing gods were smiling on me that day. I still don’t quite believe I actually landed (boated?) the fish.
cheers,
Phil