What to Do with Your Magnet Fishing Finds: A Complete Guide

Magnet fishing has become an increasingly popular hobby for treasure hunters, history enthusiasts, and environmentalists alike. This unique activity involves using a strong magnet to retrieve metal objects from bodies of water, such as rivers, lakes, and canals. While the thrill of discovering hidden treasures is undeniable, many magnet fishers are left wondering what to do with their finds. This guide will walk you through the steps to properly handle, clean, identify, and repurpose or dispose of your magnet fishing discoveries.

1. Safety First: Handling Your Finds

Before diving into the excitement of examining your finds, it's crucial to prioritize safety. Many objects pulled from waterways can be sharp, rusty, or even hazardous. Follow these steps to ensure safe handling:

1. Wear Protective Gear: Always wear gloves to protect your hands from sharp edges, rust, and potential contaminants. Safety goggles are also recommended to shield your eyes from debris.
2. Inspect for Hazards: Be cautious when handling items like knives, firearms, or unexploded ordnance. If you suspect an item is dangerous, do not touch it further and contact local authorities immediately.
3. Clean Your Hands: After handling any finds, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water to remove dirt, rust, or harmful substances.

2. Cleaning Your Magnet Fishing Finds

Once you've ensured the safety of handling your finds, the next step is cleaning them. Proper cleaning not only helps you identify the items but also preserves them for future use or display. Here's how to clean different types of objects:

Rusty Metal Objects

Rust is a common issue with metal items retrieved from water. To remove rust, follow these steps:

1. Scrub with a Wire Brush: Use a wire brush to remove loose rust and dirt from the surface of the object.
2. Soak in Vinegar: Submerge the item in white vinegar for several hours or overnight. Vinegar is a natural rust remover and is less harsh than chemical alternatives.
3. Rinse and Dry: After soaking, rinse the object with water and dry it thoroughly to prevent further rusting.

Non-Metal Items

If your find includes non-metal components, such as plastic or wood, clean them gently to avoid damage:

1. Use Mild Soap and Water: Wash the item with a soft cloth and mild soap to remove dirt and grime.
2. Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Harsh chemicals can damage delicate materials, so stick to gentle cleaning solutions.

Valuables and Antiques

For items that may have historical or monetary value, consult a professional before cleaning. Improper cleaning can reduce the value of antiques or damage delicate materials.

3. Identifying Your Finds

Identifying your magnet fishing finds can be one of the most exciting parts of the hobby. Here are some tips to help you determine what you've discovered:

Research Online

Use online resources, such as forums, databases, and social media groups dedicated to magnet fishing, to compare your finds with similar items. Websites like eBay or antique databases can also provide valuable information.

Consult Experts

If you're unsure about an item's origin or value, consider reaching out to local historians, archaeologists, or antique dealers. They can offer insights and help you understand the significance of your find.

Use Identification Apps

There are several apps available that can help you identify objects based on photos. These tools can be particularly useful for recognizing coins, tools, or other small items.

4. Repurposing and Recycling Your Finds

Not all magnet fishing finds will be valuable or historically significant. However, that doesn't mean they have to go to waste. Here are some creative ways to repurpose or recycle your discoveries:

Create Art or Decor

Rustic metal objects can be transformed into unique pieces of art or home decor. For example:

1. Wall Art: Arrange cleaned metal pieces into a collage or sculpture for a one-of-a-kind wall display.
2. Garden Decor: Use larger items, like old tools or machinery parts, as garden ornaments or planters.

Sell or Trade

If your finds have value, consider selling or trading them. Online marketplaces, antique shops, or local collectors may be interested in purchasing your items.

Recycle Scrap Metal

For items that are beyond repair or have no practical use, recycling is an eco-friendly option. Many scrap metal yards accept old metal objects and may even pay you for them.

5. Reporting Significant Finds

In some cases, your magnet fishing discoveries may have historical, cultural, or legal significance. Here's what to do if you find something important:

Contact Local Authorities

If you uncover items like weapons, explosives, or human remains, report them to local law enforcement immediately. These finds may require professional handling and investigation.

Notify Historical Societies

For artifacts or items of historical interest, reach out to local historical societies or museums. They can provide guidance on preserving and documenting your find.

Understand Local Laws

Laws regarding magnet fishing and the ownership of found items vary by location. Research your local regulations to ensure you're complying with any legal requirements.

6. Documenting Your Finds

Keeping a record of your magnet fishing adventures can be both fun and useful. Documentation helps you track your progress, share your experiences, and even assist in identifying future finds. Here's how to document your discoveries:

Take Photos

Photograph each item from multiple angles, both before and after cleaning. Include a ruler or coin in the photo for scale, as this can help with identification.

Keep a Logbook

Maintain a logbook detailing the date, location, and description of each find. Note any identifying marks, measurements, or potential uses for the item.

Share Your Story

Consider sharing your magnet fishing journey on social media, blogs, or forums. This not only connects you with a community of like-minded enthusiasts but also helps spread awareness about the hobby.