THE ULTIMATE BEGINNER’S GUIDE TO MAGNET FISHING

(Everything You Need to Start, Even If You’ve Never Tried It Before)

If you’re just getting into magnet fishing, welcome! You’re about to start one of the most fun, addictive, and surprisingly simple outdoor hobbies there is. Magnet fishing lets you explore your local waterways, clean up the environment, and maybe even pull up something crazy that’s been hidden underwater for years.

Whether you want to go treasure hunting with the kids or head out on your own for the first time, this guide will walk you through what magnet fishing is, what you need to start, where to go, and how to stay safe.

No experience needed. Let’s get into it.

Quick Start: How Do I Begin Magnet Fishing?

To start magnet fishing, you only need a few essentials:

• A 360° magnet made for magnet fishing

• A strong rope

• Protective gloves

• A safe public waterway

The easiest and safest way to start is with a complete magnet fishing kit, which includes everything you need in one box: no guesswork, no missing gear.

👉 If you want a stress-free first trip, a complete kit is the best option for beginners.

What Magnet Fishing Actually Is

Magnet fishing is simple: you throw a strong magnet into a canal, river, or lake, drag it slowly along the bottom, and pull up whatever metal sticks to it.

You never know what you’ll find. Some days it’s old locks and tools, other days it’s bikes, safes, or historic objects. Think of it as treasure hunting but with a magnet instead of a metal detector.

The best part? Anyone can do it. Kids, families, total beginners, or experienced treasure hunters, magnet fishing is for everyone.

The Best Magnet for Beginners

Using the right magnet makes a huge difference.

Cheap magnets are usually weak, break easily, and lead to frustration. For beginners, the best choice is always a 360° magnet. These magnets attract metal from all sides, not just the bottom, which means:

• More finds per throw

• Better grip in muddy water

• Way more fun overall

If you’re magnet fishing with kids or trying the hobby for the first time, lighter options like the Nugget Magnet or Jackpot Magnet are perfect. They’re easy to handle, still extremely strong, and less likely to get stuck.

👉 Not sure which magnet suits you best? Check out our complete magnet guide where we compare all Bondi Magnets and help you choose the right one.

Where to Go: Finding Your First Magnet Fishing Spot

You can magnet fish anywhere there’s safe, public water, but some places produce better finds than others.

Great beginner-friendly spots include:

• Old bridges
  

• City centre canals

• Docks and harbours

• Busy parks near water

• Fishing platforms

• Areas with lots of foot or bike traffic

Pro tip: If you’re into history, old city maps can reveal forgotten docks or river routes, absolute treasure zones.

👉 Want a full breakdown of the best magnet fishing locations worldwide? Read our complete locations guide here.

What Can You Expect to Find?

This is where the magic happens.

Common magnet fishing finds include:

• Coins

• Tools

• Locks and keys

• Bikes and scooters (sometimes even motorbikes!)

• Safes (they show up more often than you’d think)

• Mystery metal objects and unexpected surprises

Most of what you pull up will be old metal junk, which is actually a good thing. You’re cleaning up waterways while hunting for treasure. Bonus: you can take scrap metal to a recycling centre and earn some extra cash.

Essential Gear (Besides the Magnet)

You don’t need much, but the right gear makes everything easier and safer:

• A strong rope (non-stretch and water repellent)

• Gloves (seriously, always wear them!)

• A bucket for finds and gear

• A grappling hook for large or non-magnetic objects

For beginners, a complete magnet fishing kit is the easiest way to start. It includes all of the above, perfectly matched to your magnet, so you’re ready to go straight out of the box.

Magnet Fishing Safety Tips for Beginners

Magnet fishing is safe when you follow a few simple rules:

• Always wear gloves

• Avoid standing too close to edges

• Stay away from strong currents or deep water

• Never try to pull up dangerous items

• Contact local authorities if you find weapons or suspicious objects

• Keep distance from other magnet fishers

• Store your magnet and grappling hook safely when not in use.

👉 If you ever pull up something sketchy, learn exactly what to do in our dangerous magnet fishing finds guide

Final Tip: Enjoy the Adventure

Magnet fishing isn’t just about finding treasure, it’s about the adventure. Some days you’ll find amazing things, other days you’ll just enjoy being outdoors and cleaning up the water.

Don’t worry about finding something incredible every time. With the right gear, a good spot, and a bit of patience, your first magnet fishing trip can already be unforgettable.

If you want more tips, guides, or real-life magnet fishing adventures, check out our other blogs and Bondi Treasure Hunter videos. And when you’re ready to start or upgrade your setup, you know where to find us.

Magnets away!