How to Avoid Snags & Get Unstuck: Bondi’s Proven Tricks

Sooner or later, everyone gets stuck. It’s part of the adventure!
Here’s how to avoid snags and how to get your magnet back when it happens.

How to Avoid Getting Stuck

1. Check your surroundings

Look out for:

• metal bridge edges
• big underwater structures
• reinforced metal walls
• big rocks, boulders, and dead trees

Metal structures can grab your magnet instantly, and because 360 magnets are so strong, it can be very difficult to pull them off.
Rocks, boulders, and trees in the water are even trickier; sometimes you simply can’t pull from the right angle to free the magnet.

If an area looks risky… skip it.

2. Get to know the area

If you’re fishing in a new spot, start small.
Cast your magnet not too far out, learn the layout, and slowly expand your range.

The more throws you do, the better you’ll understand the bottom.

3. Expect the unexpected

Even when everything looks safe, there may be hidden metal underwater.

Examples:

• wooden bridges sitting on concrete pillars with metal inside
• reinforced walls with metal edges below the waterline
• harbours where metal bars are installed for boats to tie onto

If you feel sudden “solid metal,” be careful; it might not be treasure.

If you're new to magnet fishing, check out our Beginner’s Guide to Magnet Fishing for picking the right spots.

How to Get Unstuck

1. Pull from different angles

Walk left, right, forward, or backward.
A simple angle change can free the magnet instantly.

2. Use short, sharp tugs

Not wild yanking, just tight, controlled pulls.

3. Increase the distance

If possible, increase the distance between you and the magnet. This can reduce the magnetic force and make it easier to pull free.

This trick works extremely well on reinforced metal walls.

4. Ask for help

Two people pulling is better than one; a group is even better.
Everyone pulling at the same time can break the magnet free.

5. Use a winch

If you still can’t get it loose, a winch can help.

Make sure:

• the area is clear
• you know how to use it safely
• nobody stands near the rope

Bondi Magnets ropes are strong enough for winch use, but always be safe.

Bondi Magnets ropes are extremely strong, these ropes are included in all our Magnet Fishing Kits.

Last Resort: Entering the water

If nothing else works, you can go into the water to dislodge the magnet, but only if it’s safe and you’re comfortable.

No magnet is worth risking your safety.

Not sure which magnet suits your style? Read our Which Magnet Should I Use? guide.

Ready to go magnet fishing?

Check out our Bondi Magnets Kits, everything you need to start treasure hunting the right way.