Magnet Fishing is becoming one of the top trending fishing sports. Today, I want to dive deep into magnet fishing and talk about everything you need to know about it.
If you haven’t tried it yet, let me warn you beforehand. By the end of this guide, you are going to be hooked to magnet fishing!
Magnet fishing is also known as ‘Magnetic Fishing.’ It is the perfect mix of fishing, outdoor fun, and treasure hunt. So, put your pirate hat on, and let’s get started!
What Is Magnetic Fishing?

Magnetic fishing or magnet fishing is not exactly what it sounds like. In magnet fishing, you are fishing, but not for fish!
Basically, magnet fishing is looking for metallic objects in the water using strong magnets. In simple words, you can call it: fishing with magnets! And, yes; it is like metal detecting on land which is done using a metal detector.
Sounds exciting, right? Imagine what it would be like to find indigenous objects at the bottom of a lake! Imagine the excitement of pulling out an amazing treasure from the bottom of the lake!
The concept of magnet fishing is quite simple. All you have to do is to attach a powerful magnet to a long rope and toss it into the water. You can drag the rope along with you until you feel like it is catching something. When anything attaches to the magnet, you’ll feel a little clink. It’s an amazing feeling!
This sport is not just exciting and liberating, but it is also quite inexpensive. The entry cost is quite low as you need just some basic startup equipment (discussed later in the guide). Anyone who is an outdoor enthusiast can indulge in this fascinating sport and discover an entirely new world underwater.
Now that you have gotten hooked to magnetic fishing, let’s discuss what kind of setup you need to get started.
What to Bring When Magnet Fishing?

First off, let’s talk about the basic setup that you should bring. Just like you need a hook and line for angling, you will need a strong magnet for magnetic fishing. The magnet will work as your hook and sinker in this case.
Remember you don’t just need any magnet for fishing – you need quite a strong one. It is best to get the strongest magnet that you can carry easily.
This is a list of essential items that you should take with you on your magnet fishing trip. Make sure that you tick each item off the list; you don’t want to realize in the middle of your expedition that your hair is all over the place as you forgot your hat or your hands are getting dirty as you didn’t bring your gloves.
A basic magnetic fishing kit that you must-have includes a magnet, rope, and a sturdy pair of gloves. I have included the gloves on this list because you will need them if you don’t want to get hurt from the sharp edges of anything you ‘catch.’ Also, gloves work as protection from the different kinds of infections lurking around you.
If you are new to the world of magnet fishing, all you need is 100 bucks to get started with your startup kit.
Here is a detailed list of the items that you should take with you: magnet, thread-locker, a strong rope, a har, sunscreen, sunglasses, gloves, water bottle, and bucket. You might also want to take a few cleaning towels, mesh bags, containers, and even a portable chair if you want to.
You might be wondering which fishing magnet you should purchase. A fishing magnet can make or break your success in magnet fishing so choosing the best magnet can really make a difference.
Lucky for you, we have put together detailed reviews of the top 5 best fishing magnets. Read on and find the one for yourself!
Top 5 Best Magnet for Fishing Magnets Handpicked for You
As mentioned earlier, the first thing that you will need is a magnet. And this isn’t just any big magnet. More precisely, you will need a neodymium fishing magnet. There are two main types of fishing magnets: one-sided and two-sided.
The two-sided fishing magnets are quite useful as objects can stick to both sides of the magnet. So, they are more useful for scanning the bottom of the waterbody. One-sided magnets, on the other hand, are useful in the sense that things can latch more firmly on them. Therefore, they make it easier to lift heavy objects.
Confused about which one you should purchase? Well, my advice would be to go with the one-sided one when you are just starting out. Later down the line, you can buy another type of magnet for your collection.
Now that you know about the types of fishing magnets, let me tell you about the different strengths of magnets. These magnets come with different pulling forces, starting from 200 to 1000 pounds of pulling force. I would recommend that you start with 500 pounds of magnets.
A simple tip that is worth mentioning here is that you should keep the magnet away from electrical measuring equipment such as digital meters, electric meters, and water meters because the magnetic field can interfere with the accuracy of these devices.

This magnet is quite durable, and it is known for its top-notch quality It is coated with a triple layer of Ni+Cu+Ni. This not just gives the magnet a lasting shine, but it also makes it resistant to rust. Therefore, your magnet will not chip or crack. And, the magnetic pull will also last.
This magnet can hold up a force of up to 500 pounds.
Another aspect of this fishing magnet is that you can use it for other household purposes too. For example, you can use it as a ceiling hook for gadgets. So, this magnet comes in handy.

Next up on our list, we have the Wukong Fishing Magnet. This one is a double-sided fishing magnet and it can pull up to 660 pounds in total. It is specifically designed for retrieving in magnetic fishing. Being a double-sided magnet provides a double surface area to catch objects.
Like the previous one, this magnet is also coated with a triple layer of Ni+Cu+Ni. One of the best things about Wukong is their amazing customer service. They make sure that their customers are happy and satisfied with the services.

This one is a powerful round-based magnet. Its magnetic force is concentrated at the bottom of the magnet. The other sides of the magnet are protected with a steel cup. The bonding method of this steel cup makes it impossible for the magnet to come out of the cup, making it quite durable.
Its powerful magnetic field can pull up to 400 pounds. This magnet has a powerful triple layer of stainless steel to prevent it from corroding. Also, this magnet is designed to keep its magnetic power intact for many decades to come. It will turn out to be a loyal companion for you!
The package also includes a 100 feet long rope with this magnet.

The Mutuactor fishing magnet is strong – it can pull up to 400 pounds of weight. It is designed to be used in both fresh and marine water. With its corrosion-resistant coating, the magnet will not rust. The loss of magnetic properties will not be more than 2% in 10 years! So, this magnet will last you for an entire lifetime!
A special quality about this magnet is that it has gone through extensive production processes to ensure excellent tensile strength. The company also offers a stellar after-sales service for an entire year after purchase.

This 888-Pound Fishing magnet has exceptional quality and superior strength. In fact, this is one of the largest magnets on Amazon. With a pulling force of 888 pounds, it can pull anything out of the water. Despite its massive pulling strength, this magnet comes in quite a small size. You’ll be surprised to know that it is only 3.54-inches! With its small size and incredible pulling length, this magnet is one of the top choices for many magnet fishers.
The rope on this magnet is also designed to minimize the issue of snags and tangles. You can also hold the magnet a few inches above the surface of the water to further avoid tangling.
Why Do People Go for Magnet Fishing?

Many people are hooked to magnet fishing because they love the unpredictability of it. It’s like Nature is surprising them! The wait, the anticipation, and the reveal—every moment in magnet fishing is exhilarating!
But, let’s take a little more systematic approach to it. There are generally two categories of magnetic fishers. The first, and more obvious category, is treasure hunters. The second one is tool-droppers. Let’s discuss each one by one.
Treasure hunters who like magnet fishing just for the thrill of it are obviously hoping to discover interesting things. What they find might even be valuable (Of course that is rare, but one can hope, right!) Also, their discovery might hold historical significance too. It is thrilling to hold an ancient object in your hands and wonder where it came from.
And, to top it all, it’s quite fun to sit around in the water and watch the wonders of Nature.
Furthermore, you can even earn some extra cash using magnetic fishing! Some people also like to adopt this hobby for financial gain. Whenever you find something ‘interesting’ you can sell it. For example, many hobbyists like to buy rare types of coins and objects with some kind of historical significance.
The second category, tool droppers, will be looking for any tools that they have recently dropped into the water. If the object is metallic, it can easily be attracted to a magnet. This is why I believe that every toolbox should have magnets in this. You never know when you’ll need a powerful magnet.
Is Magnetic Fishing Dangerous?
You might have heard about some people raving about how magnet fishing is dangerous. Let’s discuss when it can be dangerous and how you can avoid those dangers.
First off, remember that whenever you are stepping outdoors some potential dangers are lurking around you (think sunburns, mosquitos, dehydration, etc.) If you wear proper clothing, take a water bottle, stay hydrated, and keep a bottle of bug spray, you will be safe from these ‘dangers.’
The second kind of danger of magnet fishing is sharp, rusted objects that you might find in the water. Wearing a good quality, sturdy pair of gloves can keep you safe from the pointed edges of such objects that can cut (and possibly infect) you.
Another kind of danger that might even come as a shock to you is finding live grenades. Yes, you read that right. Live grenades. Now, don’t get scared away from magnet fishing because of this. The live grenades and other firearms will only be found in areas of past wars. The best rule is to avoid such risky lakes and ponds. Even if you are a risk-taker and looking for an adrenaline rush, it is not worth it to explore such dangerous places because they do pose real dangers.
Therefore, make sure that you explore the spots on the map before you head to the lake or pond for magnetic fishing.
Also, another piece of advice is to have a look at the weather conditions before heading out. Make sure that you check for the possibility of lighting in that area. Even though the chances of such a possibility are slim, it is a good idea to be on the safe side and check the weather. You wouldn’t want to get caught with mental in your hands while a thunderstorm is lurking around the corner.
Now that you know about all the possible things that can go wrong on your magnet fishing expedition, make sure that you avoid them beforehand. Once you’ve taken your precautionary measures against all of the above risks, you are ready to enjoy the thrill of magnetic fishing!
Magnet Fishing Tips You Wish You Knew Before

Before I end this guide, I want to share a few amazing magnet fishing tips that will take your experience to the next level. Without further ado, let me share the top tips that will make your expedition fun.
Be Prepared
Make sure that you check off each item on the checklist above. Pack your sunblock, sanitizers, bug sprays, water bottles beforehand so that you do not forget anything. Also, make sure that you dress up according to the weather conditions.
It’s also a good idea to keep a spare magnet because different situations require different types of magnets.
Fishing Location
This one is the most obvious tip but many people still forget it. You can find metal dropped in any river or pond around you. You might find keys, a knife, or just fishing tools in the water. But that isn’t that interesting, is it?
If you are hoping to find something interesting, you will have to do some homework. Maybe look up famous historical sides that other treasure hunters like to explore. You can also check out river mouths and spillways for some hidden treasures. It is also a great idea to target high traffic areas as they possess more metal than other areas.
Another essential tip here is that you should avoid areas that you do not know about. If they don’t come up with your research, likely, they will not have anything interesting.
Be Patient
Magnet fishing is a game of patience. You won’t make an amazing discovery the first time you throw your magnet in. Chances are that you will have to wait for quite some time before you get your hands on (or rather your magnet on) something interesting.
Clean Your Magnet
Before you head out for your magnet fishing trip, make sure that you clean your magnet. Small metal flakes or debris that are stuck on the magnet can decrease its attracting force. Of course, you cannot afford that.
Simply use a scraper to scrape off the bits and pieces of metal that are stuck to the magnet. Once you are done with that, clean the magnet with a towel.
Final Thoughts
While most anglers and fishers catch just fish for dinner, you can catch the most exotic of treasures from the bottom of the lake with magnetic fishing.
Now that you know how to fish with magnets and what you need for your magnet fishing expedition, plan a trip to the lake quickly. And, don’t say I didn’t warn you! I told you that you would fall in love with it!
Updated: January 30, 2023
Leave a Comment