Magnet fishing is fast becoming a popular pastime in some parts of the world. You may probably know about some unusual forms of fishing like bow fishing or slow pitch jigging, but magnet fishing is entirely different from fishing. This is because while anglers seek to land fish, magnet fishers are searching for a lot more. They are digging for valuables.
Magnet fishing involves fishing with magnets. As surprising as this may sound, there is not anything more to it than that. The procedure involves tying a rope onto a magnet or lodestone and throwing it inside water. If you are fortunate, the lodestone will stick to an item that you can easily haul out. If it is good enough, you can take it home.
Have you ever thrown your keys down the drain as you make your way out of the car? Have you ever misplaced your favorite knife while fishing? Many people have, and this is most likely how magnet fishing began. It has since grown into a full-fledged pastime that equals environmental activism and treasure seeking.
What Can You Catch?
As you may expect, there are a plethora of items you can capture while magnet fishing. From bolts and nuts to signposts, tools, bicycles, and even an old boot – everything that has iron is within your grasp. A safe is one of the most thrilling items you may find hooked to your lodestone. You would be amazed how frequently ancient safes are discovered in waterways. They are usually empty, having been abandoned after a robbery.
Magnet Fishing Gear
If you want to give lodestone fishing a try, the first item you will need is a large ol’ magnet. Most people go for a neodymium fishing magnet which has two types: double-sided and one-sided magnets. If you are looking to scan the bottom of a river, then using a double sided magnet will be ideal as items can stick to the two sides. One-sided options also have a firm grip on items, and this makes them ideal for lifting objects.
Fishing magnets are available in various strengths, ranging from approximately 200 pounds of drawing power to well over 1,000 pounds. If it sounds like a lot, keep in mind that it’s based on ideal conditions and a flat sheet of steel. As a result, most magnet anglers advocate a minimum of 500 pounds.
Rope
If you have got a lodestone, the next item you will need is a long, hard rope. It is ideal to go for synthetic materials such as nylon as they do not rot. Nylon ropes can be dry-treated, and this makes them lightweight even when they are wet. Besides that, there is no high-tech required.
Gloves
You will be handling several rusty metals, which means that you would need gloves. It is important to note that you do not need expensive gloves for this purpose. You can use normal gloves sold in any hardware store around you. Also, avoid bulky gloves as they can prevent you from feeling the magnet, mainly when it sticks to an object underwater.
Grappling Hook
This is a valuable tool to have with you when magnet fishing. A grappling or pole hook is ideal for pulling up huge finds when they get to the surface. It is also helpful for a catch that is not solid metal.
Magnet Storage
A strong lodestone is a bit difficult to store or even transport. If it gets stuck to your car, it may be challenging to detach without causing significant damage. Fortunately, with small polystyrene, you can neutralize the magnetic pull. You need to carry this plastic in a small cooler to ensure safety.
Tips to Help Beginners
The following are some helpful tips to guide you:
Location
You can easily find metal in different rivers or ponds in a place where people stay. Canals, bridges, and piers are popular areas where you can go magnet fishing. This is because these areas witness boat and foot traffic, and there’s a chance that someone may misplace their keys, bait knife, and other essential items.
If you are looking for interesting finds, then doing a little research will be ideal. Popular historic sites are usually not great spots due to other trophy hunters exploring there, but they are still worthwhile. Historic harbors and old riverside pathways are goldmines. Finally, spillways and river mouths usually get littered with items that have been washed downstream.
If you have found a good location and need a visual guide on starting magnet fishing, you can watch this video.
Knot Notes
The easiest way to connect your lodestone to a rope is with a knot. You can also use carabiner clips, but there has to be a knot somewhere to create a good hold. The two popular knots used for this activity include the Palomar and figure-eight follow-through. Both are easy to tie even with a little practice. Additionally, neither of the knots can be undone by drawing them.
Getting Unstuck
Magnets getting stuck on an object is a common occurrence with beginners. It may be a support rod on a pier, a railing on the bridge, or other metals affixed to a place. Wherever it gets stuck, unsticking it is simple if you understand the process.
The first step to take is to slide the lodestone out sideways. This way, you will not be going against the entire pulling force. If this does work, you can pull it from a side with fast, sharp tugs. You can also call for help from people if none of the suggested methods pulls through.
Dangers of Magnet Fishing
As adventurous as this activity may seem, it also comes with some dangers, and some of them include:
- The danger of cutting oneself. You can cut yourself while dragging more extensive finds. A safety measure to prevent this is to wear gloves.
- It is possible to find unexploded bombs or an old grenade in a river. If you find one, it is recommended that you call the police.
These are some relevant tips about magnet fishing. If you need recommendations on other pastimes, you can check here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_hobbies
Conclusion
Finding old metals may not be as exciting as finding a big fish, but it is undoubtedly a worthwhile experience. If you consider this activity for your next holiday, you can use the tips outlined in this article.
