The popularity of magnet fishing has been increasing in recent years with many thousands a year participating in this popular hobby. As most would know, magnet fishing involves using a strong magnet to pull metallic (and sometimes valuable) objects from bodies of water. The thrill of discovering hidden treasures and the environmental benefits of removing debris from waterways have made it a favorite pastime for many.
Given it is home to a massive number of lakes and rivers, the USA is one of the best places in the world for magnet fishing. From historic sites to scenic locations with amazing views, there is no shortage of magnet fishing locations to explore across America.
In this article, we will take a look at 5 top magnet fishing locations in the USA. Whether you are a seasoned magnet fisher or a beginner, these locations are sure to provide you with a memorable experience. So grab your magnet, rope and get ready to discover some hidden treasures!
Top Magnet Fishing Locations in the USA
Given the huge number of quality waterways suitable for magnet fishing, this list could be a lot longer than 5 locations we have mentioned below. We’ve managed to narrow the best magnet fishing locations to 5 and below are our top 5 magnet fishing locations in the USA:
Lake Mead, Nevada
Lake Mead is a man-made lake located on the Colorado River, spanning across Nevada and Arizona. It is the largest reservoir in the United States and is a popular spot for fishing and other water activities. Magnet fishing in Lake Mead can yield many interesting finds, including old coins, fishing lures, and even car parts.
Mississippi River, Minnesota to Louisiana
The Mississippi River is the second-longest river in the United States, running from Minnesota to Louisiana. The river is known for its abundance of fish and maritime traffic, but it is also a great spot for magnet fishing. The river’s strong currents and historical significance make it an exciting location for treasure hunters, particularly down New Orleans way. .
Chesapeake Bay, Maryland
Chesapeake Bay is the largest estuary in the United States, stretching across Maryland and Virginia. The bay is known for its rich marine life and is a popular spot for fishing and boating. Magnet fishing in Chesapeake Bay can yield many interesting finds, including old anchors, ship parts, and even weapons.
Colorado River, Arizona
The Colorado River is a major river in the southwestern United States, spanning across several states, including Arizona, California, and Nevada. The river is known for its stunning scenery and is a popular spot for water activities. Magnet fishing in the Colorado River can yield many interesting finds, including old coins, antiques and a wide range of fishing equipment such as lures.
Hudson River, New York
The Hudson River is a major river in the northeastern United States, running from New York to New Jersey. The river played an important role in the development of the United States and is steeped in history. Magnet fishing in the Hudson River can yield many interesting finds, both valuable and also junk.
Overall, these top 5 magnet fishing locations in the USA offer a unique and exciting experience for anyone interested in the hobby. Whether you are a seasoned magnet fisher or a beginner, these locations are sure to provide you with many interesting finds.
Magnet Fishing Equipment and Gear
Choosing the Right Magnet
As we’ve mentioned in previous articles, if you have the means, you want a variety of magnets. Some locations are going to favor a smaller, less powerful magnet. Other locations will require a very strong magnet, particularly when targeting larger items.
Neodymium magnets are the most commonly used magnets for magnet fishing due to their strength and durability. The strength of the magnet is measured in pounds, and it is recommended to use a magnet with at least 1,000 pounds of pulling force. If you can afford it, go for a larger magnet, say 1,700 pounds plus a smaller double sided one with a strength of at least 500 pounds.
Also take the time to research whether your preferred location is suited to a single sided magnet or a dual sided magnet.
Essential Accessories
Aside from the magnet, there are a few essential accessories that are necessary for magnet fishing. A rope or cord is needed to attach the magnet to and retrieve it from the water. We recommend a reinforced polyester style rope and you’ll want a significant amount of length of at least 60 feet. A grappling hook can be very helpful for pulling in larger items that cannot be lifted with the magnet alone.
In addition to the magnet and rope there are a few other accessories that will improve your magnet fishing experience. Gloves are also recommended to protect your hands from sharp or rusty objects.
A bucket or bag is recommended to hold the items you retrieve, a waterproof flashlight (particularly if night magnet fishing or in low-light conditions) can be helpful for searching the water.
Finally, a quality pair of boots and a pair of waders can be useful for accessing deeper water and protecting your clothing from getting wet.
Choosing the right magnet and having the essential accessories will take your magnet fishing experience to another level and make it a more rewarding experience.
Legal and environmental concerns when Magnet Fishing
One important note that all current and future magnet fishing participants must adhere to is local laws and regulations. Never go magnet fishing without checking all local rules, laws and regulations. Never go magnet fishing on private land unless you have explicit (and in most cases written) permission to use this land for magnet fishing.
When using state or federal land when magnet fishing, perform a thorough check on the legalities of this activity. It would be heartbreaking to find a valuable magnet fishing haul only to have this confiscated if you were illegally magnet fishing.
Check federal, state and local laws, rules and regulations and always maintain safe magnet fishing practices.
Permit requirements for magnet fishing
After checking the local laws and regulations regarding fishing and metal detecting you may find that a permit is needed on some federal or state lands/waterways. Some states require a fishing license or permit to engage in magnet fishing, while others prohibit it altogether. In addition, some cities and municipalities may have their own regulations regarding magnet fishing.
It is critical to obtain any necessary permits or licenses before engaging in magnet fishing to avoid fines, legal issues or the confiscation of any valuable finds. Always respect private property and leave any land and water in a better place than before you arrived.
Environmentally responsible practices when magnet fishing
Aside from enjoyable outdoors adventures, another benefit that magnet fishing provides is a way to clean up the environment. Decades of littering and dumping rubbish in waterways across the world has led to many environmental issues, magnet fishing can act as a way to reverse this.
Many magnet fishing enthusiasts trawl popular waterways in their towns and cities to clean up metallic junk items dumped in rivers and lakes. Even if you aren’t out magnet fishing to clean up the waters, it is important to practice environmentally responsible practices to minimize any negative impact on the environment.
Properly dispose of any trash or debris that is collected while magnet fishing, including any fishing line, hooks, or other items that may be harmful to wildlife. Also, avoid disturbing any natural habitats or ecosystems while magnet fishing. This includes avoiding areas with sensitive plant or animal species, and avoiding disturbing the bottom of bodies of water.
Joining the magnet fishing community and finding helpful resources
Online forums and groups
Magnet fishing enthusiasts can find a wealth of information and resources online through various forums and groups. These communities provide a platform for individuals to share their experiences and knowledge, ask questions, and connect with like-minded individuals.
One popular online forum is Reddit, where there are several magnet fishing communities, including r/magnetfishing and r/magnetfishingfinds. These forums have active members who share their finds, tips, and tricks. FaceBook is another great online resources that has many large or local groups, you can join such as Magnet Fishing USA or Magnet Fishing America,
These groups offer a platform for members to share their experiences (and photos of their hauls) as well as allowing you to connect with other magnet fishing enthusiasts.Many of these online communities also offer state or city focused options that can give you even more ideas to go magnet fishing at a place close to you.
Local magnet fishing events
Attending local magnet fishing events can be a great way to connect with other enthusiasts and learn more about the hobby. These events can range from informal meetups to organized competitions.
One example of a popular magnet fishing event is the annual onlinemagnets.co.uk Magnet Fishing World Championship, which takes place in the United Kingdom. This event attracts participants from all over the world and offers a chance to compete and connect with other magnet fishing enthusiasts.
In the United States, local magnet fishing events can be found through online resources such as Facebook groups or by contacting local fishing clubs. These events provide an opportunity to meet other enthusiasts, learn new techniques, and explore new magnet fishing locations.
Once a magnet fishing organization is formed the growth of the sport of magnet fishing will likely explode.
We hope you enjoyed our 5 top magnet fishing locations in the USA. Let us know if you have tried any of the above suggestions or if you have a great magnet fishing location of your own that you think should be on this list!