Most fishing is about catching dinner, but magnet fishing is a bit different. It combines the excitement of treasure hunting with the relaxation of fishing and spending time outdoors. For RV travellers, it’s a fantastic hobby to take up as the gear required to give it a go takes up minimal space. Have you heard of it?
For those of you that haven’t, its exactly what it sounds like – fishing with magnets. Except, you’re not actually catching fish, you’re catching whatever metal object sticks to the magnet.
What can I find magnet fishing?
Enthusiasts have discovered a wide variety of items, from historical artifacts to discarded tools, to weaponry, bikes, scooters, keys, and sometimes even valuable items. Back in 2018, someone even found a safe full of jewellery, watches and medals on their first try. You can read about it here in The Sun.
If you need some inspiration, check out the Bondi Treasure Hunter below.
How do you do it?
Basically, you tie a rope onto a really strong magnet and throw it in the water. If you’re lucky, you’ll attach to something, and then you can haul it in.
Why do people do it?
The main attraction is the possibility of finding something valuable or quirky, but it’s also just a fun way to get the kids outdoors and also a great way to clean up your local rivers and waterways, making them safer for everyone.
What you’ll need to get started
Want to give it a try? Well, the great thing about magnet fishing is that you don’t need much gear to get started. In fact, most people already have the basics and just need to get a magnet. Here’s what you’ll need:
A REALLY strong magnet
We’re not talking just about any old magnet here. Look for a neodymium magnet with a strong pulling force. Your magnet will also need to have an eyelet to tie a rope onto, otherwise you won’t be able to pull anything in.
There are two main types: one-side and two-sided magnets. One-sided magnets latch on more firmly but a two-sider is better for scanning the bottom of whatever water source you have lobbed it in.
Durable rope
You’re going to need something to pull that magnet and treasure in. Grab yourself a long, nylon rope and ensure it has a high weight capacity. If you can, grab one that is dry-treated, as this means it won’t get heavy when it’s wet.
Gloves
Gloves are non-negotiable when magnet fishing as you’re dealing with sharp objects, rusty objects and potentially dirty water. Don’t get ones that are too bulky, as you won’t be able to feel anything with your fingers; just some heavy-duty work gloves from the hardware store are fine.
A bucket
This is simply for dumping whatever you find in and keeping it out of the way while you throw your magnet back in.
A grappling hook (not essential, but nice to have)
A grappling hook is useful for retrieving larger or oversized items that the magnet can’t pull up on its own.
Consider getting a kit
If you don’t already have rope and gloves, it’s worth considering buying a kit.
How to start magnet fishing
Prep your gear
Attach your magnet to your rope using a strong knot that doesn’t come undone when pulling it, such as the Palomar knot or figure-eight. In addition, make sure your rope is actually long enough to reach the bottom of the water.
Location, location, location
Choose your location wisely. Spots with historical significance are ideal, as are spots where people frequently gather near water, like old bridges, docks, or popular fishing (the regular kind) spots. Anywhere that there is plenty of foot traffic around the eges of the waterway or boat traffic, as this means someone at some point has dropped their keys, lost a cool old lure or bait knife, or dumped a stolen scooter in there.
Throw your line in
Now that you’re ready, throw your magnet into the water (with the rope attached, of course) and give it time to sink to the bottom. Next, slowly drag it along the bottom so that it can attach itself to any metal objects down there.
Retrieve and inspect
Pull the magnet back in, and, using gloves, inspect your find. Hopefully, you’re on to a winner!
Be responsible
If you remove a lot of junk, don’t just leave it beside the river. Magnet fishing can help clean waterways, but not if you dump it on the banks. Put it in your bucket and dispose of it properly.
Tips for success
Getting stuck and unstuck
A common problem for beginners is getting your magnet stuck on a metal object before you even get a chance to throw it in – like the railing on the bridge or your garage door. It’s really hard to simply pull it off (it’s nothing like a fridge magnet), so you’re going to need to try slide it off sideways.
More expensive fishing magnet kits will come with a special case to store your magnet. However, you are unlikely to fork out this much when you’re just getting started. There’s a simple solution. Line a plastic fishing tackle box with polystyrene and store and transport the magnet in that. It’s not pretty but it does the job.
The dangers
Dragging rusty metal out of a river or creek comes with a few dangers. As we mentioned earlier, not wearing gloves is non-negotiable, and if you can’t remember when you last got a tetanus booster, it might be a good time to get one.
A more dangerous problem (although much less a problem in Australia than other countries), is the possibility that you might catch an explosive weapon of sorts. If you do, lower it carefully back into the water, tie off your rope and call the police.
Are you going to try it?
Is magnet fishing really fishing? Sort of. I mean, technically, you’re not catching fish, but you are fishing for things. I’ll leave that up to you to decide. Regardless of whether you’re in it for the thrill of finding treasure or simply the serenity of hanging out by the river, magnet fishing is a great hobby for all ages