What is magnet fishing and how can you engage in it

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By Car Brand Experts

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While most forms of fishing are centered around catching dinner, magnet fishing presents a unique twist. It offers the thrill of treasure hunting combined with the tranquility of fishing, all while enjoying the great outdoors. For individuals traveling via RV, it’s an excellent hobby to adopt as it requires minimal gear that takes up little space. Are you familiar with this activity?

For those who might be new to the concept, magnet fishing is exactly as it sounds – fishing using magnets. However, instead of reeling in fish, you’re capturing any metal objects that are attracted to the magnet.

What might you discover while magnet fishing?

Enthusiasts have stumbled upon a diverse range of items, spanning from historical relics to discarded tools, weapons, bicycles, scooters, keys, and occasionally even valuable treasures. In one notable instance back in 2018, an individual unearthed a safe filled with jewelry, watches, and medals on their inaugural attempt. You can explore more about this fascinating find The Sun

If you’re seeking inspiration, take a look at the Bondi Treasure Hunter below.

What is the method of engaging in magnet fishing?

In essence, you attach a sturdy magnet to a rope and cast it into the water. With any luck, it will latch onto something, allowing you to reel it in.

What motivates individuals to participate?

The primary allure lies in the prospect of unearthing valuable or peculiar items. Additionally, it serves as an enjoyable means to get children outdoors and acts as a valuable endeavor to cleanse local rivers and water bodies, enhancing safety for everyone.

Essential items for commencing

If you’re eager to give it a try, the beauty of magnet fishing is that minimal equipment is needed to start. In fact, most people possess the essentials and simply require a magnet. Here’s what you’ll need:


A HIGHLY potent magnet

magnet fishing
© AMF Magnetics

We’re talking about a neodymium magnet with considerable attraction force here. Additionally, the magnet should feature an eyelet for attaching a rope; otherwise, retrieval will be challenging.

There exist two primary types: single-sided and double-sided magnets. Single-sided magnets offer firmer adhesion, whereas double-sided ones are better for scanning the bed of the water body where you’ve deployed it.

Robust rope

You’ll need a robust nylon rope to pull both the magnet and any treasures. Opt for a lengthy rope with a high weight capacity. If possible, select one that is dry-treated to prevent it from becoming heavy when wet.

Hand protection

Gloves are indispensable during magnet fishing, given the presence of sharp, rusty objects and potentially contaminated water. Avoid overly bulky gloves, as they may impede finger dexterity; standard heavy-duty work gloves from a hardware store should suffice.

Container

A receptacle is handy for collecting your discoveries and keeping them organized while you redeploy your magnet.

A grappling hook (optional but beneficial)

A grappling hook proves useful for retrieving larger or unwieldy objects that the magnet alone cannot extract.

Deliberate acquiring a kit

If you lack a suitable rope and gloves, consider purchasing a kit for added convenience.

magnet fishing
AMF Magnetics

Initiating magnet fishing

Prepare your equipment

Affix the magnet to the rope using a secure knot that won’t unravel when under tension, such as the Palomar knot or figure-eight. Additionally, ascertain that your rope is sufficiently lengthy to reach the water’s bottom.


Site selection is crucial

Exercise judgment in selecting your location. Sites with historical importance are ideal, as are spots frequented by people near water, like old bridges, docks, or popular fishing areas. Any location with substantial pedestrian traffic along the water’s edge or significant boat activity suggests a higher likelihood of discovering keys, vintage lures, or discarded scooters.

pexels pixabay 221451
© Pexels / Pixabay

Cast your line

Now that you’re prepared, toss your magnet into the water (attached to the rope, of course) and allow it to sink to the bottom. Slowly drag it across the bed to attract any submerged metal objects.

Retrieval and examination

Retrieve the magnet and, while wearing gloves, examine your discovery. Hopefully, you’ve stumbled upon something noteworthy!

Act responsibly

If you extract a substantial amount of debris, refrain from leaving it by the riverbank. Magnet fishing can aid in cleansing water bodies, provided that the collected items are disposed of appropriately. Deposit them in your container and dispose of them correctly.

magnet fishing
Rusty horseshoes

Pointers for triumph

Getting ensnared and liberated

Encountering difficulty intracting your magnet on a metallic item at the initial stage is a common quandary for novices – whether it be a bridge railing or your garage entrance. Extracting it straightforwardly is arduous (unlike a fridge magnet), so you must attempt to shift it sideways.

Premium fishing magnet sets typically include a designated case for storing the magnet. However, when commencing your endeavor, investing in such extravagance is improbable. There exists a simple recourse. Equip a plastic fishing tackle container with polystyrene padding to securely house and convey the magnet. It may not be aesthetically pleasing, yet it serves the purpose.

The hazards

Extracting corroded metal from a river or stream presents certain risks. As noted earlier, neglecting to wear protective gloves is out of the question. Also, if your tetanus vaccination is not up to date, it would be advisable to consider a booster.

A more hazardous predicament (although less prevalent in Australia compared to other nations) is the potential of stumbling upon an explosive device of some nature. If such an instance occurs, cautiously lower it back into the water, tether your rope securely, and promptly contact the authorities.

Are you tempted to give it a try?

Is magnet fishing akin to conventional fishing? Partially. While it does not involve catching fish per se, it does involve ‘fishing’ for objects. It’s up to you to deliberate on. Irrespective of whether you engage for the excitement of uncovering treasures or simply the tranquility of riverside leisure, magnet fishing proves to be an enjoyable pastime suitable for all age groups.

Expand your knowledge:

This post includes affiliate links to items. We may earn a commission for purchases completed via these links.


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