Magnet fishing is a thrilling and entertaining outdoor activity. You can clean up the environment and find hidden treasures. However, if you have never been magnet fishing before, it is an intimidating hobby that you may have trouble picking up right away.
For that reason, we have put together this comprehensive guide for going magnet fishing. It starts with preparation and continues on to talk about finding your location and details of what to do when you are actually out there.
Table of Contents
Shopping For Your Equipment
The first step in any magnet fishing adventure is shopping for your magnet fishing equipment. If you want to be able to haul some impressive finds out of the water, then you need to invest in good equipment that is likely to yield results. In this section, we are going to review how you should shop for your equipment and what types of things you should be taking into consideration.
Budget
Your first major consideration should be your acceptable budget for acquiring your magnet fishing kit. The type of magnet you pick, the rope and any other accessories will all factor into your final cost. It is important to remember that you don’t need to buy the most expensive options on the market in order to be successful.
Magnet Strength (Neodymium Magnets Are Strongest)
Your second major consideration when shopping for a magnet should be its strength. While different magnets boast different strengths, the general rule of thumb is that the strength should be proportional to your expectations for what you want to find. To be safe, you may want to invest in a high-quality neodymium magnet, which is what most magnet fishers use. For instance, a magnet with 500lbs pull force would be suitable for small finds such as coins and jewelry but insufficient if you are looking to reel in larger items like safes or bicycles.
Rope Length
Rope length is a very important factor in the success of your magnet fishing activities. Different bodies of water will require different lengths depending on the depth of the water. A good rule of thumb is to opt for a rope length that is double the approximate depth of your fishing area.
Safety Measures
When it comes to magnet fishing, safety should always be your number one priority. You don’t want to take any risks while magnet fishing and the best way to avoid it is by wearing personal protective equipment such as gloves, waders, and a buoy. Additionally, consider bringing an emergency kit with you that includes items like a whistle and a first aid kit.
Where to Shop
The final factor that you'll have to put some thought into is where you want to get your magnet fishing gear from. There are a variety of online and brick-and-mortar stores that sell magnet fishing kits, so you’ll have to decide which one is best for you. Be sure to do your research on each store before making your purchase in order to ensure that the equipment is up to standard.
Steps For Going Magnet Fishing
Collect Your Tools
You'll need specific tools and supplies for magnet fishing. You will need a powerful magnet first and foremost. The magnet's strength should be adequate to attract and hold onto metal objects without making it impossible to release them.
Because of its powerful magnetic field and manageability, neodymium magnets are a great option. You'll also want gloves to protect your hands while handling the magnet, any sharp objects you uncover, and a rope or chain to attach the magnet to.
Find A Suitable Location
Magnet fishing is most fruitful in regions close to bridges, marinas, and other areas with a high concentration of metallic objects. Find a place with deep enough water to submerge the magnet entirely and stay away from areas with strong currents or obstacles below the water's surface.
Another consideration here is to make sure that you find out if there are any magnet fishing legal ordinances that you need to be aware of in your area. Some cities or counties ban the use of fishing magnets or even, in some cases, a strong double-sided magnet. A strong magnet can cause damage to areas, so make sure to check with local ordinances before you start magnet fishing.
Once you've located a good spot, lower the magnet into the water by tethering it to a rope or chain. Place the magnet above the water's floor to get the most coverage. Move the magnet back and forth across the seafloor in a slow, smooth motion.
Be sure to properly dispose of hazardous materials as you retrieve items from the water, including old batteries and sharp objects. These materials pose a hazard to humans and should be removed from the environment immediately.
After retrieving and disposing of potentially dangerous materials, you can examine and enjoy your finds. Coins, jewelry, tools, and even artifacts from bygone eras are just some things that are frequently recovered.
Catalog & Diagnose Your Finds
If you magnet fish enough, then you are bound to start reeling in some awesome finds. But what is the best way to catalog, diagnose and display them?
First, take pictures of your finds. This will help you keep track of what you have found and can also be used to show off your finds to friends or family.
Next, analyze any coins or jewelry that you find using a metal detector or other diagnostic device. Metal detectors and other devices can give you an idea of the age, origin, or value of a find.
Finally, be sure to store your finds in protective containers so they are not damaged over time. This will also help keep them safe from theft.
Equipment Required For Magnet Fishing
You'll need a few essential tools to go magnet fishing. Take a look at this list for a rundown of the basics you'll need to get going:
Magnet
A magnet is an essential tool you'll need when going magnet fishing. A powerful magnet with the ability to attract and retain metal objects is required. Because of its powerful magnetic field and manageability, neodymium magnets are a great option.
If you want to use a rope or chain to attach to the magnet, you'll need one of those, too. If you're going to use a magnet to pull something out of the water, the rope or chain must be strong enough to support the magnet and whatever it pulls out, as well as the forces exerted when lowering and raising the magnet from the water.
Gloves
These are essential for preventing cuts and scrapes while handling the magnet and any other sharp objects you may come across. Try to find gloves that can withstand repeated washings, have a firm grip, and shield your hands from cuts and abrasions.
A bucket can help stow away items discovered and transport away potentially dangerous substances. Also, have a first aid kit on hand whenever you go outdoors because you never know when an accident might happen. So always have a first aid kit on you in case of emergencies.
Rope
Having good rope is an essential part of having success magnet fishing. The rope or chain must be strong enough to support the weight of the magnet and whatever it pulls out, as well as the forces exerted when lowering and raising the magnet from the water. It should also be long enough for you to lower the magnet in deep waters.
Safety Gear
When going into a body of water, safety gear is a must. This includes a life jacket, waders, and waterproof flashlights. Having these items will help keep you safe in deep waters, especially at night when visibility is reduced.
Clothing
Put on garments and footwear suitable for the climate and task. Layer your clothes for warmth, and choose sturdy footwear with a good grip for navigating wet or slick surfaces. If these items are on hand, you'll be prepared for a productive day of magnet fishing. Safe and fruitful waterway exploration is possible with the right gear.
Magnet Fishing's Objectives
When people go magnet fishing, they're usually on the lookout for a few specific things:
- Magnet fishing is a popular pastime because it is a relaxing way to spend time in nature. It's a chance to get out and about in the water, discover new places, and appreciate the splendor of nature.
- Magnet fishing has the potential to aid in environmental cleanup efforts. Metal trash, like abandoned shopping carts and bike parts, can clog up waterways. Magnet fishers contribute to clean and healthy waterways by removing trash and debris from rivers and lakes with the aid of magnets.
- Magnet fishing's other purpose is to unearth buried treasures like coins, jewelry, and even ancient artifacts. The thrill of magnet fishing lies in never knowing what you might uncover.
Magnet fishing's primary goals are entertaining and beneficial to preserve natural ecosystems and waterways. Magnet fishing can be fun and fulfilling, whether trying to help the environment or just looking for something new to do in your free time.
How To Magnet Fish Safely
To have a safe and satisfying experience with magnet fishing, you must observe certain precautions. Here are some safety precautions you should take:
- Protect yourself by wearing sturdy shoes for navigating slippery or uneven surfaces and gloves to protect your hands from sharp objects when magnet fishing.
- Find a spot with water deep enough to completely submerge the magnet and away from dangerous currents or submerged objects.
Stick to these safety measures to ensure a fun and risk-free day of magnet fishing. Exploring your local waterways and finding hidden treasures can be fun if you use common sense and caution.
Finding The Best Spots For Magnetic Fishing
Magnet fishing is best done near bridges, marinas, and other locations with a high concentration of metals. Also, inspect public areas like boat ramps and swimming hotspots where people are likely to have lost or discarded metal items.
The magnet and any objects it attracts should be placed in an easily accessible and well-lit area. By keeping these things in mind, you can zero in on a magnet fishing spot that is secure, convenient, and rich in potential metal finds. Identifying excellent magnet fishing spots in your area is easy with some investigation and exploration.
Here is a rundown of the various locations that you can go magnet fishing at and what kind of finds they can yield.
Swimming Lakes & Rivers
Magnets fishing at rivers and lakes where people swim can be a great way to find hidden treasures. The magnet is able to pull up items that have been lost over time, such as rings, coins, jewelry and other metal objects. It’s not uncommon to find rare valuable items when magnet fishing in these kinds of locations. The strong currents in rivers and lakes can drag objects far away from the spot where they were originally dropped or lost. This means that you could uncover something that nobody has seen in a long time by using a magnet to search for it.
It’s important to take safety precautions when magnet fishing at these locations, as the magnets can be powerful enough to trap swimmers underwater. So make sure you are aware of any swimmers present before dropping your magnet into the water. If you do decide to magnet fish at these spots, it’s best to use multiple magnets with different weights attached so that you don’t accidentally trap someone in your search area. With careful consideration and strategic placement of your magnets, you could uncover some truly amazing finds while magnet fishing in rivers and lakes where people swim.
Bridges
Magnet fishing at bridges is a fantastic activity for those looking to uncover hidden treasures. Not only can you find some interesting items, but you also get the chance to explore these bridges and see some beautiful views.
When magnet fishing at bridges, there is a wide variety of finds that can be discovered. Copper coins and ornate jewelry from long ago are common finds when magnet fishing at bridges, although it is not uncommon to find other metals such as nails, bolts, coins, keys and more.
It is also possible to uncover discarded tools or rare artifacts like buttons, buckles, and military memorabilia. Besides smaller finds like these, larger objects such as old bicycles, car parts, anchors and even large safes may be uncovered.
All of these finds could be quite exciting for the magnet fisher! Magnet fishing at bridges provides an interesting way to explore the history of these structures and learn about what the past held in terms of lost treasures. Even if you don't uncover any valuable items from your exploration, it's still an enjoyable and worthwhile experience that allows one to appreciate the beauty of nature while seeking out new discoveries.
Boat Ramps
Boat ramps are one of the most popular spots for magnet fishing. Here, you can often find a large variety of items that have been lost or discarded in the water.
At boat ramps, you may be able to snag some interesting finds such as coins, keys, jewelry and even tools. If your magnet is strong enough, you may even be able retrieve items made of steel or iron that have sunken to the bottom of the lake or river.
Boat ramps are a great spot to explore due to their shallow depths and because they’re often located near docks and piers with more traffic. While magnet fishing at boat ramps, it’s important to keep an eye out for things like snags which can cause your line to get tangled up and thrown off course.
Additionally, since these areas are so popular with boaters, it’s also important to be mindful of other people’s safety by avoiding any items that may potentially be hazardous. With patience and a bit of luck, boat ramp magnet fishing can yield some pretty exciting finds over time!
Fishing Spots
Fish are not the only amazing find that can be discovered at popular fishing spots. Magnet fishing at these areas can be a great way to uncover some unique items that have been lost or discarded in the water.
When magnet fishing at fishing spots, it’s important to keep an eye out for anything that may potentially be hazardous, such as hooks and lures. Additionally, since these areas are popular with anglers, it’s also important to be aware of other people’s safety and take care not to disturb any fish that may be present.
By using multiple magnets with different weights, you can increase your chances of uncovering some interesting finds while magnet fishing in these areas. Coins, jewelry, tools and even rare artifacts like buttons and buckles can all be found in these waters. With careful consideration and strategic placement of your magnets, you could uncover some truly amazing finds while magnet fishing at popular fishing spots.
These are just a few ideas for where to go when beginning your magnet fishing journey. With so many great locations to explore and discover, the possibilities are virtually endless! So don’t be afraid to get out there and start your hunt for treasures! You never know what you might uncover.
Let's Recap
Magnet fishing is an increasingly popular activity that allows adventurers to uncover some amazing things from the depths of rivers, lakes and oceans. Popular locations for magnet fishing include bridges, boat ramps and fishing spots. Bridges are often home to lost coins and jewelry from long ago, while boat ramps can provide a wealth of interesting finds such as keys, tools and even steel objects. Fishing spots provide a great opportunity to uncover lost lures and hooks, as well as rare items like buttons and buckles. With so many amazing potential finds out there, it’s no wonder why magnet fishing is becoming such a popular activity! So get out there and start your hunt for treasure today!
