Manchester has over 100 miles of canals and rivers. This makes it one of the top magnet fishing cities in the UK. Read on to learn the best Manchester magnet fishing locations and finds.
Hot Spots for Magnet Fishing Manchester
Central Manchester has lots of canal spots to try magnet fishing. These are the best place to try on Manchester.
- River Irwell: Flowing through the heart of Manchester, the River Irwell is a key waterway in the region. Its banks offer scenic views and walking paths, contributing to the city’s charm.
- River Medlock: Another significant river in Manchester, the River Medlock, passes through the eastern part of the city, adding to its diverse water features.
- Bridgewater Canal: One of the most famous canals in the UK, the Bridgewater Canal connects Manchester to Worsley. It played a crucial role in the Industrial Revolution and is surrounded by historical landmarks.
- Rochdale Canal: Linking Manchester to the town of Rochdale, this canal is known for its picturesque settings, historic locks, and vibrant canal-side communities.
- Ashton Canal: Running through eastern Manchester, the Ashton Canal is a peaceful waterway with scenic towpaths, providing a tranquil escape within the urban landscape.
- Fletcher Moss Park and Botanical Gardens: While not a lake, the botanical gardens in Didsbury include ponds and water features, creating a serene atmosphere for visitors.
- Heaton Park Boating Lake: Heaton Park, one of the largest municipal parks in Europe, features a boating lake where visitors can enjoy paddle boating and scenic views.
- Sale Water Park: Although technically a reservoir, Sale Water Park offers water-based activities and a scenic environment. It’s a popular spot for sailing and birdwatching.
Note: These are the most common places in Manchester. There are many places we can find. If you have experience in specific areas, we would love to know about it. You can share it with a comment below or contact us.
Unexpected Treasures Found So Far
Manchester magnet fishers have discovered:
- Antique coins from the 1700-1800s near Castlefield locks
- An old musket barrel possibly from the English Civil War period
- Lost mobile phones and cameras around Canal Street
- Kids’ bicycles and scooters sadly dumped in Piccadilly Basin
As well as usual metal junk, Manchester magnets attract other random treasures.
When Did Magnet Fishing Get Going in Manchester?
Locals describe Manchester magnet fishing as: Rare pre-2020, with just a few lone magnet fishers and Popular since 2021 after YouTube made it a viral thing to try. Now various magnet fishing groups meetup most weekends. Some have over 300 members.
Responsible Magnet Fishing in Manchester
To keep the hobby fun for all, magnet fishers must:
- Ask Canal and River Trust for any needed permission
- Remove rubbish pulled from waterways
- Report weapons, explosives or bodies found to police fast
- Not damage vegetation or canal structures
Respectful magnet fishing benefits both hobbyists and Manchester’s historic waterway environment.
Read: Magnet Fishing Laws In UK
Magnet Fishing Groups of Greater Manchester
Connect with experienced local magnet fishers by joining a Manchester group.
- Mancs Magnets Social Club – Relaxed city centre trips. Suits all levels.
- Salford Magneteers – Friendly crew exploring Greater Manchester’s west.
- Stocky Magnets – Mostly fish rural Stockport and Macclesfield Canal.
- Rochdale Canal Detectives – Devoted to one canal outside the city.
Ready to Magnet Fish Manchester?
Hopefully, this article has shown Manchester has fantastic magnet fishing spots. From the city center outward, hidden finds are waiting in canal mud! Try it responsibly for a unique outdoor challenge. Just ask permission, follow safety rules, and have fun. Then, see what amazing discoveries your magnet attracts in Manchester’s waterworld.
