What is Magnet Fishing?
Magnet fishing is the exciting hobby of using strong magnets to hunt for and collect metal objects in waterways. The magnets are usually attached to ropes and thrown into rivers, canals, lakes, and other water bodies to haul up all kinds of lost treasures.
This unique activity has become popular in recent years as more people discover the thrill of magnetic fishing. It allows anyone to feel like a treasure hunter unearthing century-old relics from right under the water’s surface. However, if you’re new to this hobby, there are some essential things to know before you get started.
How To Get Start As Beginner
The most essential piece of gear for magnet fishing is the magnet itself. For the best chance of success, you’ll need neodymium magnets, which are the strongest permanent magnets in the world. Look for magnets with at least 200 lbs of pulling force. Many magnet fishers connect two or more magnets together for maximum power.
You’ll also need a strong rope or paracord to attach the magnets securely. Use carabiners and other fasteners to connect multiple magnets and prevent loss. Wearing gloves helps grip the rope to haul up finds. Other useful gear includes a grappling hook to reach items further away and floating buoys to prevent losing your rig.
What Do I Need for Magnet Fishing
Here are the essential components for Magnet Fishers.
- Magnets – You’ll need strong neodymium magnets for magnet fishing. Usually with at least 200 lbs of pulling force. Many magnet fishers use two or more magnets attached together for more power. Read about best magnet for magnet fishing.
- Rope/Paracord – A strong rope or paracord is needed to attach your magnets securely. Use carabiners and knots to connect multiple magnets and prevent loss.
- Gloves – Wearing gloves helps grip the rope when pulling up heavy objects and prevents rope burn. Consider a pair that can get wet.
- Grapple Hook – A grappling hook helps retrieve items further away from shore/docks by dragging the magnet along the bottom.
As optional items, fishers can bring Waders/Boots to stay dry and comfortable for magnet fishing in deeper water. Consider a first aid kit, life vest if on boats, and rope/harness when magnet fishing from bridges or dams. Also, having bags, containers, and tape on hand to contain dangerous or valuable finds securely. Keep towels in your car or gear bag to dry off the equipment after magnet fishing. It can help to use the metal tools for a longer lifetime. If you plan magnetic fishing at noon or night, a waterproof headlamp helps you more.
The right magnets and rope are essential. However, taking some time to gather other helpful magnet fishing tools and accessories can enhance your experience and capabilities. Always prioritize safety.
Where Can I Buy These Accessories?
When buying magnets, focus on pounds of pull force rather than size alone. And be sure to check product details closely to ensure suitability for magnet fishing. Compare seller ratings and shipping fees if ordering online. With the right gear, you’ll be equipped to start hauling in some fantastic finds. As an online store, you can buy these equipment’s on Amazon, eBay, and other e-commerce stores. You can purchase local options from Hardware stores, Army/Navy surplus stores, Scuba/dive shops, and Marine/boating stores. When you are ordering online, Carefully review seller ratings and product details.
As a magnet fishing expert, we have found the best products you can purchase from Amazon based on our experience. Therefore, visit the magnet fishing gear section to purchase all kinds of necessary equipment for magnet fishers. All selling products are branded and high in durability.
Buy Best Magnet Fishing Accessories
Where Are the Best Places to Go Magnet Fishing
Magnet fishing can be done anywhere, but some spots lend themselves better than others. Focus on locations where metal objects may have accumulated over time. Rivers, canals, marinas, boat ramps, bridges, and beaches are all magnet fishing hotspots.
Researching popular fishing piers or historic sites near old infrastructure also improves your chances of hauling up treasure. Just be sure to get permission from the property.
Popular Places to Go Magnetic Fishing
Magnet fishing is gaining popularity as a fun hobby that can yield some surprising treasures from ponds, rivers, and other waterways. But what are the best places to cast a magnet and try your luck at finding sunken items?
Here are some top magnet fishing spots to consider:
Bridges and Overpasses
Bridges that span rivers, highways, train tracks, or other gaps are prime real estate for magnet fishing. As people accidentally drop items from bridges or things fall out of vehicles passing overhead, a multitude of metal objects accumulate in the waters below. Target bridges with lots of traffic, accidents, or areas where people may stop/congregate.
Marinas and Docks
These bustling boating hubs tend to attract dropped keys, tools, anchors, and other metal objects that settle on the bottom where boats are coming and going frequently. Search around rental slip areas, boat launches, boarding areas, and entry points where items may be more likely to fall in the water.
Spillways and Dams
The strong currents and turbulence around spillways and dams create a catchall for metal debris. Heavy objects tend to sink and accumulate in these areas. Be extremely cautious around fast-flowing water and slippery surfaces.
Historic Sites
Old bridges, factories, mills, and other historic infrastructure that once stood along rivers make for rewarding magnet fishing spots. You may unearth relics and antiques in areas that were bustling with activity decades or centuries ago.
Public Access Waterways
Rivers, creeks, and lakes that allow public access are great for magnet fishing since you can easily reach the water’s edge. Research public parks with shoreline access or use boat ramps. Be sure to follow the rules and get permits if required.
The key is looking for locations with “traps” where heavy metal objects will likely accumulate over time. With some scouting and research, you can identify promising magnet fishing hotspots in your area. Just be sure to magnet fish responsibly and safely.
Handling Finds and Treasures Properly
A successful magnet fishing trip can turn up all surprises – tools, car parts, nails, silverware, antique items, and more. While many finds are smelly junk, you may occasionally uncover real treasures like jewelry, safes, or historical relics.
Always inspect your finds cautiously and be ready to contact authorities if you reel in anything potentially dangerous, like guns or explosives. Proper cleaning and preservation keep your treasures in good condition. You can research findings to determine age, origin, or value.
Being a Successful Magnet Fisher
Like any hobby, magnet fishing requires following basic ethics and safety precautions. Be sure you understand and obey all magnet fishing regulations for the area. Avoid trespassing on private docks and property or protected historical sites. Follow a “pack it in, pack it out” rule and properly dispose of trash and junk.
Use extreme caution when fishing from bridges, shorelines, boats, or questionable structures. Tell someone where you’ll be and magnet fish with a partner when possible. With some common sense, magnet fishing can offer a fulfilling new hobby.
The surge in magnet fishing’s popularity is easy to understand. It taps into the thrill of discovery as you uncover lost artifacts and hidden treasures from otherwise inaccessible spots. Just make sure you go into the hobby informed and prepared. Follow these tips, and you’ll be hauling up finds quickly.