Magnet fishing for the big catch – is magnet fishing the new trend sport?

Do you need a hook for fishing? Not necessarily. With the new trend of magnet fishing, you don't need any traditional fishing equipment. The reason for this is that the booth in a "treasure hunt" is very different from that in conventional fishing. This makes magnet fishing suitable even for animal lovers and people who don't like eating fish. And with a lot of luck, you can pull real treasures like coins or military items out of the water.
But what is behind the term magnet fishing, what equipment do you need and what should you look out for when you go looking for sunken treasure in waters? And is magnet fishing allowed in your country?

What is magnet fishing?

When it comes to magnet fishing, the name says it all. Instead of using a conventional fishing line and fishing hook, magnet fishermen use lines to which powerful magnets are attached. These are magnets with a high adhesive force. They are often also referred to as recovery magnets, search magnets, super magnets or neodymium magnets. In contrast to detectorists, who also must buy a metal detector, magnet anglers get their equipment inexpensively.

Possible Finds and Treasures

Fish cannot be caught this way. But that is not what passionate magnet anglers are after. Instead of living prey, they are objects made of metal that have sunk into the water at some point.

The main prize: hidden treasures such as old coins, militaria* or other valuables.

The chance that you, as a magnet fisherman, will one day recover a treasure chest filled to the brim from the water is slim. Apart from that, the range of possible loot or objects on the recovery magnet is large. It ranges from rusty nails to old bicycles to historical items from the Second World War - for example badges. Every now and then, magnet fishermen also recover a safe from the depths. Unfortunately, such a small safe is rarely full to the brim.

The special appeal of magnet fishing

The highlight of the matter is the element of surprise. After all, when magnet fishing, you never know what you will pull out of the water - unlike with conventional fishing. While anglers are usually informed about which fish are in a particular body of water, it is impossible to say in advance about the discovery of lost metal objects.

Metal Fishing and Safety

Recently, the media reported on a magnet fisherman who had already fished pistols, batons and a small safe out of a river. The surprise is not always pleasant. Sometimes extreme caution is required, and it is better to call the bomb disposal service. Since the magnet fisherman can rarely see exactly what he has on the hook from his position, one or two finds sometimes look like a grenade. In this case, it is better to give a "false" alarm.

Important prerequisites for successful magnet fishing

Curious? Then don't make the mistake of attaching a standard household magnet to a string and casting your line into the nearest river. There are several things to consider when magnet fishing so that the hobby is fun, and you don't come into conflict with water owners, environmentalists or government officials.
This includes:

• the right equipment (e.g. neodymium magnet or recovery magnet with high adhesive force)
• the appropriate location
• the legal framework
• Environmental protection concerns

Technology also plays a role in magnet fishing, especially when it comes to casting. It is therefore advisable to find out more in advance. This way, there is a good chance that you will soon embrace magnet fishing as an exciting hobby.

INFOBOX
*Militaria are historical artifacts that are related to the military, uniforms, religious orders and war. In addition to the military in the narrower sense, items from other uniformed state organizations also fall under militaria..

The right equipment for magnet fishing

You don’t need much for magnet fishing. However, a few pieces of equipment are essential. These include:

• a magnet
• a rope
• a transport box

The right magnet for maximum success

Performance is a key criterion, especially when choosing a magnet. Magnets such as those used on refrigerators, pin boards or fly screens are not very suitable for pulling heavy objects out of the water. Instead, so-called neodymium magnets are used for magnet fishing. These are also called super or recovery magnets and can pull several hundred kilos behind them. While metal detectorists also need a metal detector, magnet anglers can get by without one.
If you want to buy a neodymium magnet for fishing, pay attention to the following:

The optimal traction

The higher the better? Only up to a certain point. Because if your magnet sticks to an object that weighs several hundred kilos, you have no chance of pulling it out of the water. In this case, you also must dive to rescue your magnet. Therefore, a pulling force of up to 150 kilograms is usually sufficient. Magnets with a convincing holding force are also called search magnets or super magnets.

The right size

Many neodymium magnets for magnet fishing are about 70 to 100 mm in size. In this case, more is better, because the contact surface increases with the size. You can find suitable magnets here: magnets for magnet fishing.

You can also get square and round magnets. In practice, however, the shape is of secondary importance. Some advanced magnet fishermen take magnets of different sizes with them when they pursue their hobby. Beginners can do without this for now. Nevertheless, it may be interesting for you to browse through our selection of neodymium magnets to find your favorite.

Choosing the right rope

If you have bought a magnet, you will need a rope. A normal fishing line is not an option for magnet fishing. After all, the pulling forces are much higher than with conventional fishing. Instead, a rope is used. When making your selection, consider the following criteria:

• Sufficient pulling power for safe recovery.
• Optimal length: 15 to 20 meters is sufficient for magnet fishing. If the rope is any longer, it will be difficult to handle.
• Diameter: Too much diameter is also detrimental. In principle, it should not be more than 10 mm.
• Material: Choose a waterproof material such as polypropylene that does not absorb water.

Transport and additional equipment for magnet fishermen

Finally, we recommend taking suitable containers with you for transporting your catch. Which ones are suitable depends mainly on the type of vehicle you are using - whether it is a car, a moped or a bicycle. When choosing, remember that many of the objects that magnet fishermen pull out of the water are quite heavy. And even 20-meter-long ropes are not lightweight, especially when they are soaked with water.

Recommended protective equipment

With rope, magnet and transport box, your basic equipment is complete. But to make fishing fun, we recommend that you also put emphasis on the right clothing. This includes:

- Gloves that protect your hands from chafing ropes.
- Waterproof trousers make it more comfortable to take a few steps into the water if necessary.
- And if you are magnet fishing for hours in the middle of summer, remember to wear sun protection.

Optional Equipment

Some magnet fishermen also carry a throwing hook or an underwater camera with them. Magnet anglers are often also so-called metal detectorists and have a metal detector as equipment. Magnet anglers, on the other hand, do not need a metal detector.

What do you need to learn about magnet fishing?

Basic fishing knowledge

Since magnet fishing has little in common with conventional fishing, it is tempting for beginners to spontaneously set off and "cast" their magnet. In fact, it makes more sense to acquire a certain amount of know-how beforehand. This includes basic fishing knowledge.

- One reason for this is that magnet fishing can have a negative impact on the biological balance in waters, especially during spawning season.
- There are also places where magnet fishermen cause considerable damage to flora and fauna.
- And finally, several relevant regulations apply both to anglers who are hunting fish and to those who use a magnet to pull metal objects out of the water.

Many good reasons to familiarize yourself in advance with the knowledge that will be tested in the fishing exam.

Safety and technology when ejecting the magnet

Before ejection:

Before you cast your magnet, make sure there are no anglers, boats or animals nearby that could endanger you. Also look out for objects that your magnet could get caught on. These include, for example, planking or metal pillars. There is also a risk that the magnet could dock when pulled out of the water. It is often anything but easy to "pull it loose" again.

Secure attachment to the shore

Then secure one end of the rope securely to the bank. Recommended attachment points:

• Firmly anchored fence posts
• Stable trees 
• Robust bank reinforcements

WARNING
Do not attach the rope to your belt or simply fix it with your foot. This brings with it the risk of losing the rope and magnet. In addition, accidents and injuries due to the jolt when casting are possible consequences.

The right technique for magnet fishing

It usually takes a while to find out how much momentum you need to use to cast your “rod” when magnet fishing. In any case, remember to remove any small pieces of metal that get caught on the magnet before casting again.

Where should you be careful when magnet fishing?

As already mentioned, there are several places where special care must be taken when magnet fishing. These include places where there are a lot of people - above or below the water. Potential obstacles or objects that the rope and magnet could get caught on are also a good reason to look for another location. Finally, there are bodies of water where fishing of any kind is not permitted for nature conservation reasons, or which are privately owned.

Legal framework for magnet fishing

Many people who are dealing with magnet fishing for the first time ask themselves whether magnet fishing is even allowed in the country. When answering this question, you can use the following points as a guide:

• In principle, magnet fishing is not prohibited in Germany.
• However, state law is decisive in this case. It may be that magnet fishing is not permitted in your country for reasons of monument protection, for example.

To be on the safe side, find out about the relevant laws and regulations beforehand. It is also often a good idea to ask, for example at a police station. This way you can avoid unpleasant surprises and be completely relaxed when you go looking for hidden treasures.

INFOBOX
The police are also the first point of contact if you retrieve items such as weapons, ammunition or suspected stolen goods from the water. This applies to "modern" weapons as well as those from the Second World War.

Choosing the location for magnet fishing

Caution is advised when magnet fishing from private property. Avoid these or ask the owner for permission beforehand - if possible. You should also avoid casting your line in ports or in waters that belong to a fishery. But legal requirements are not the only criteria that are decisive when looking for a location. The right place is fundamentally important for the success of magnet fishing. A few basic tips will help you with your search:

• In cities, the chances of success are often higher than in the countryside, but fishing in rural areas is more tranquil.
• Recently cleaned river sections and areas around newly built bridges are not very promising.
• In places where there are many people in the water, you should refrain from magnet fishing for safety reasons.

Use modern tools like Google Maps to get an impression of different places in advance. This way you can avoid disappointment.

Environmental Protection in Magnet Fishing

Magnets pose a few dangers to the underwater world. Therefore, if possible, avoid fishing in overgrown areas directly on the shore to protect the soil and plants. It is also advisable to know about spawning times.
Finally, you must dispose of your catch properly after fishing, no matter what it is. Throwing an old bike lock back into the water is not an option.

How to behave as a magnet fisherman?

Magnet fishing is a new phenomenon. Accordingly, magnet fishing arouses a great deal of curiosity and sometimes suspicion among passers-by. The same applies to representatives of the relevant authorities. It is therefore even more important to behave appropriately as a magnet angler (or/and detectorist). This means:

• Be considerate of people, nature and objects. If you feel that you are disturbing someone, look for another place.
• Respond openly and kindly to questions, even if this is sometimes difficult.
• Adhere to all legal regulations

The more you follow these tips, the higher the chances are that you will be able to enjoy your new hobby undisturbed. If this is not the case, you may just have to pack up your equipment and head home.

Conclusion: Magnet fishing – a new trend sport

Initially often laughed at, magnet fishing has now become a real sport that more and more people in cities and in the countryside are practicing. Magnet anglers have also pulled a whole series of spectacular finds out of the water in recent years. However, this is more of an exception. As with other sports - and not only there - the journey is also the destination in magnet fishing.
If you take this into account, you can have a lot of fun and experience the odd adventure while searching for sunken treasures (badges, coins, military items).

Requirements for a successful start

What is essential is a magnet with sufficient holding power. A neodymium magnet, which is also often referred to as a recovery magnet, super magnet or search magnet. This is available for little money and ensures that magnet fishing takes place without any major incidents. Magnet anglers do not need a metal detector.
Detectorists who also have a metal detector in their equipment will have to dig deeper into their pockets for a metal detector.
In addition, it is advisable to acquire a little basic knowledge beforehand and to find out about the legal regulations in your own state. Then all that remains is to look for a suitable location and be patient - known to be the most important fishing virtue of all.