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Summary
Magnet fishing is a hobby where you use a strong fishing magnet attached to a rope to pull metal objects out of the water. For beginners who want plenty of pulling power, the Magnetar Hardcore is a practical option, while more experienced magnet fishers often choose a Beast with greater pulling power. Rules for magnet fishing in the United States vary by state, property owner, park and waterway manager, so always check the rules for the exact location before you start.
Magnet fishing is a fun outdoor hobby where you search for hidden treasures on the bottom of rivers, lakes and other waterways. You never know in advance what you will pull up, and that is part of what makes it exciting. Magnetar has specialized in this hobby for more than a decade. In this article, you will learn exactly what magnet fishing is, how it works, what risks are involved and how to get started yourself.
Magnet fishing has become much more popular in recent years. YouTubers, TikTok creators and other content creators are showing the hobby to more people, inspiring others to give it a try. Below, you will find everything you need to know to get started.
What exactly is magnet fishing?
When magnet fishing, you search for magnetic objects hidden underwater. Objects containing materials such as iron, nickel, cobalt or certain magnetic alloys can be attracted by a strong fishing magnet. Because many everyday metal objects contain iron or steel, a good fishing magnet can retrieve a wide range of objects.
You do this using a neodymium fishing magnet, a very powerful type of permanent magnet. There are several types of fishing magnets, but an allround 360° fishing magnet is a practical choice for many magnet fishers because it attracts metal from every direction, giving you more opportunities to make contact than with a single-sided magnet.
How does magnet fishing work in practice?
Attach a strong rope securely to your fishing magnet. Then throw the magnet into the water at a location where magnet fishing is allowed and where you think there may be something below the surface. Always keep control of the rope while casting so you do not lose your magnet. With Magnetar’s dedicated rope, the carabiner can also be secured to a suitable fixed point where this can be done safely and is permitted.
Let the magnet sink gently to the bottom and then retrieve it slowly and steadily. If you suddenly feel more resistance, there is a good chance your magnet has attached itself to something.
Is magnet fishing dangerous?
Magnet fishing can involve risks. You may encounter an unsafe object such as a firearm, ammunition, suspected unexploded ordnance or something with sharp edges. If you encounter suspected ammunition or an explosive device, do not touch, move, clean or disturb it. Move away from the area and call 911. If you find a firearm or another potentially dangerous object, avoid unnecessary handling and contact local law enforcement.
Gloves and sturdy clothing help protect you from rust and sharp edges. If you are magnet fishing near traffic, flowing water or slippery banks, pay attention to your surroundings and your balance as well. Want to learn more about magnet fishing safely? Read our detailed article about the dangers of magnet fishing.
Can you magnet fish everywhere?
There is no single rule that makes magnet fishing legal everywhere in the United States. Rules can differ between states, cities, parks, waterways and individual properties. Some public land managers prohibit magnet fishing, while other locations may require permission or a permit. National Park Service units can also have specific restrictions. Always check the rules of the state and the agency, municipality or property owner responsible for the exact location you want to visit.
Private property also requires permission from the owner. Historic and archaeological locations may have additional restrictions on disturbing or removing objects. Read more in our guide to magnet fishing laws in the USA.
How do you get started with magnet fishing?
Magnet fishing is an accessible hobby because you do not need much equipment to get started. With a fishing magnet and suitable magnet fishing rope, you already have the two main essentials. Choosing the right equipment is important, however, and the options below can help you decide.
Which fishing magnet should a beginner choose?
Fishing magnets are available as single-sided, double-sided, allround 360° and block magnets. A single-sided magnet attracts mainly on one side, a double-sided magnet on two sides, an allround magnet around the magnet, and Magnetar block magnets provide magnetic contact on six sides. An allround or suitable block magnet can be a practical option because it gives you more opportunities to make magnetic contact while dragging it through the water.
- For children under close adult supervision, the Magnetar Easy is a manageable entry-level magnet with a combined pulling force of 600 lb (280 kg). For younger children, consider the Kids package with a single-sided magnet.
- For adult beginners who want more pulling power, the Hardcore provides up to 1,300 lb (600 kg) of combined pulling force. The Beast X is a more powerful X Line option intended for experienced and dedicated magnet fishers.
- If you want to move on to stronger equipment, take a look at the Terror, the Beast or Magnetar’s X Line.
- Magnetar’s popular block magnets, the CUBE and MEGACUBE, offer six magnetic contact surfaces and a protected construction. More compact X Line alternatives are the CUBE X and MEGACUBE X.
Besides a fishing magnet, you need suitable rope. Magnetar offers rope specifically designed for magnet fishing, with a loop and stainless steel carabiner for attaching your equipment. Protective covers and other included accessories vary by magnet and package, so check the exact contents on the product page.
If you are a beginner, a complete magnet fishing kit is often the easiest option because it combines the main equipment you need to get started.
- For children under close adult supervision, the Magnetar Easy is a manageable entry-level magnet with a combined pulling force of 600 lb (280 kg). For younger children, consider the Kids package with a single-sided magnet.
- For adult beginners who want more pulling power, the Hardcore provides up to 1,300 lb (600 kg) of combined pulling force. The Beast X is a more powerful X Line option intended for experienced and dedicated magnet fishers.
- If you want to move on to stronger equipment, take a look at the Terror, the Beast or Magnetar’s X Line.
- Magnetar’s popular block magnets, the CUBE and MEGACUBE, offer six magnetic contact surfaces and a protected construction. More compact X Line alternatives are the CUBE X and MEGACUBE X.
Where can you buy a fishing magnet in the United States?
Want to get started? U.S. customers can order directly through the Magnetar store at magnetarmagnets.com. Magnetar has stock in the United States and lists a U.S. location in Newark, Delaware. Check the website or contact customer service for current delivery or pickup options before traveling to a location.
Magnet fishing is an accessible outdoor hobby that lets you search for hidden objects while removing metal debris from waterways. If you pay attention to safety and check the rules for your location before you start, you can prepare properly for your first trip. Want to get started right away? Explore our complete magnet fishing kits, or continue reading the Magnetar magnet fishing blog for more tips.
Frequently Asked Questions
What do you need to start magnet fishing?
You need a fishing magnet and suitable rope. Gloves are also useful for protecting your hands from rusty or sharp objects. Protective covers and other accessories vary by product, so check the contents of the specific Magnetar magnet or kit. For beginners, a complete kit with the main equipment included is often the easiest way to start.
Is magnet fishing dangerous?
Magnet fishing can involve risks, especially if you find a firearm, suspected explosive, ammunition or an object with sharp edges. Do not touch, move or disturb suspected unexploded ordnance. Move away and call 911. Avoid unnecessary handling of firearms and contact local law enforcement. Gloves, sturdy clothing and careful handling also reduce everyday risks.
Can you magnet fish everywhere in the United States?
No single rule applies to every location in the United States. State laws, city or county rules, park regulations and property-manager policies can differ. Some locations prohibit magnet fishing and others may require permission or a permit. Always check the rules for the exact waterway and the land or property from which you plan to fish.
Which fishing magnet is best for a beginner?
For children under close adult supervision, the Magnetar Easy is a manageable entry-level 360° magnet with a combined pulling force of 600 lb (280 kg). For younger children, consider the Kids package with a single-sided magnet.
Adult beginners who want more pulling power can consider the Hardcore, which provides up to 1,300 lb (600 kg) combined pulling force. More powerful magnets such as the Terror, Beast and X Line models are options to consider as you gain experience.
What should you do if your fishing magnet gets stuck?
First, pull the rope from the opposite direction. If that does not work, try a short, controlled pull from a different angle to break the magnetic contact. Do not enter the water or put yourself in danger simply to retrieve a stuck magnet.
I wil pick one up