Magnet fishing started to gain more popularity and attract more numbers of people over time. Therefore, some started to ask about the related regulations and rules of this hobby.
Unlike regular fishing, magnet fishing doesn’t need legal regulation in most cases, yet, there are some exceptions to this rule.
In this article, we are going to look into the details of magnet fishing as a hobby. In addition to why and where people go magnet fishing. We’ll also get into the perks and downsides of this hobby, and answer the big question: is magnet fishing legal or not?
What Is Magnet Fishing?
Magnet or magnetic fishing is getting objects from the bottom of the waters, which contain magnetic materials (steel, iron, nickel, etc) in search of useful ferromagnetic objects.
It’s not known exactly how it started. Some claim it started by fishers as a way of retrieving their goods from the sea. Other people believe it appeared as the next level of magnet detecting.
The Essentials For Magnet Fishing
To practice this hobby, there is a number of equipment people usually use.
A Magnet
A powerful magnet is needed in this activity, neodymium is the most recommended. It’s also recommended to have 120-150 kg pull force with a loop to tie the rope on.
A Rope
You will need a tight long rope minimum of 50 feet. Pick a type that wouldn’t cut easily and could reach the bottom of the water. Paracord and nylon ropes are among the recommended ones.
Some people use a rod and a reel to recover the magnet instead of ropes. It’s recommended to use a thread lock on the rope knot to make sure it doesn’t loosen from the loop fast when underwater.
Gloves
Gloves are needed for protection when pulling the rope and getting out metal stuff. They protect you from sharp metal objects and metal splinters that are attached to the magnet. They also prevent contamination from the rust and the dirt.
A Bucket
You will need a huge bucket to put in all your findings. Some people use a wooden shaft to be able to easily pull whatever you get from the water, especially heavy objects.
Hand Sanitizer
Having a hand sanitizer or a piece of cloth is important to clean your hand after touching the metals and any dirt from the water.
Why Do People Go Magnet Fishing?
Magnet fishing is an inexpensive hobby that anyone can practice without the need of much equipment or preparations. There’s also the mystery and fun of throwing the magnet not knowing what you may get next.
You mostly start with useless findings as all beginners do. However, you may end up finding treasures like old coins, antiques, fishing lures, hooks, and others.
However, magnetic fishing won’t get you silver and gold as they won’t be pulled by the magnet unless they’re in an iron box or something similar. Still, It’s a hobby that can eventually help the environment by cleaning the water from metals.
Where To Go Magnet Fishing?
Almost any place with water will do to magnet fish. However, sometimes shallow water is better than deep water for you to reach the bottom and retrieve metals easily. There’s a number of places where you can enjoy your hobby without breaking the law.
- New and old lakes, rivers, banks, canals, swamps, creeks, and ponds.
- Often visited public places with water bodies to find a variety of objects.
- Historical places and landmarks.
- Famous lakes, canals, and ditches that are used to be near battlegrounds.
- Isolated water bodies aren’t the best places but you might find some rare object in there.
- Private water bodies but you’ll need to ask for the owner’s permission.
- Old wells are popular for being rich with different objects in their bottoms.
- Magnet fishing on bridges also makes it easier to throw and pull your magnet.
- Popular swimming spots where people could have lost or thrown away.
Avoid fishing in muddy water or one with many branches. Both could get your rope or magnet stuck.
The Perks and Downsides of Magnet Fishing
As magnet fishing is a hobby that requires you to go near water bodies to retrieve different metal objects, it has its perks and downsides.
Pros
- Fun for all ages, which can even make it a family activity.
- You can find interesting things like old coins, keys, phones, chains, and others.
- You can get to enjoy being near the water.
- Help the environment by cleaning the water from metals.
Cons
- It can be dangerous if the magnet is too strong and pulls very heavy objects.
- Life jackets are recommended for children’s safety.
- Some findings can be dangerous like guns and ammunition.
- You have to report and handle carefully any firearms.
- May cause disturbance for boaters if nearby as the robe can ruin their motors.
- Throwing and retrieving in a fishing area can disturb fishers.
Laws Concerning Magnet Fishing
Magnet fishing isn’t officially illegal but it’s a criticized hobby among some people. There are also certain conditions that might lead to some strict regulations and prohibitions.
Generally, you don’t need an official license (except in South Carolina) to practice your hobby in public or private lands. However, to stay within the law there are numbers of things you need to take care of.
Private Areas
In the case of magnet fishing in a private area, you have to get permission from the owner, so as not to be charged with trespassing.
When asking for permission, mentioning the environmental benefits can make the whole process much easier.
Fishers & Boaters
It’s essential to respect and not disturb other fishers, boaters, or magnet fishers nearby to avoid complaints and enjoy your hobby.
Firearms
You have to report and hand to the authorities any firearms or bombs to avoid legal problems. It’s also for your own and others’ safety.
Check Regulations
It’s important to check the regulation of your state if they prohibit magnet fishing in specific areas or if there are certain rules that you should follow.
In South Carolina, you need a license to collect from the state property in any water.
It’s also known that places, where fishing is prohibited, are of course not allowed for magnet fishing.
Leftovers
Some authorities can ban magnet fishing if people cause any damage to the place or others. After you’re done don’t leave sharp or harmful objects. Make sure you recycle them in any way possible.
Also, don’t throw back the metal objects you don’t need in the water, so as not to trash the water again after the metals are removed.
Conclusion
Magnet fishing is regarded as an easy and inexpensive hobby that needs no skills and little money. It’s easy to enjoy it whenever you want and in many places. All you need is to take the right safety and legal measures.
It’s a legal hobby practiced by many people who enjoy searching for hidden and interesting treasures. It can also be enjoyed alone, with a group of friends or family. All you need is a good magnet and a rope and you’re ready to go magnet fishing.