Fishing magnets (8)
With a fishing magnet you retrieve metal objects from ditches, canals and ponds. Our fishing magnets are complete sets: a neodymium magnet in a steel pot, a rope of 16 to 25 meters, an eye nut or eye bolt and a carabiner in most sets. So you can get straight to work. The pulling force ranges from 88 kg to 500 kg.
Which fishing magnet should you choose?
| Pulling force | Size | Suitable for |
|---|---|---|
| 88 to 130 kg | Ø48 x 10 mm, Ø60 x 15 mm | Beginners, children under supervision, small objects |
| 175 to 250 kg | Ø60 to Ø75 mm | All-round magnet fishing, the most popular class |
| 360 to 500 kg | Ø80 x 35, Ø90 x 45, Ø100 x 50 mm | Experienced magnet fishers and heavy finds |
The pulling force is measured under ideal conditions: pulling straight up on a thick, flat steel plate. Underwater you often pull at an angle and finds only make contact with the magnet at a small point, especially if they are round or rusty. Therefore, it is better to choose a class stronger than you think you need. Also read Which fishing magnet should you choose? and our explanation of magnet fishing.
What is in a set?
- Neodymium fishing magnet in a steel pot with NiCuNi coating
- Rope of 16, 20 or 25 meters, depending on the set
- Eye nut or eye bolt and bolt to attach the rope
- Carabiner to quickly clip the rope (in most sets)
Rules: where and how can you magnet fish?
There is no national law regulating magnet fishing; the rules vary by location. Check these four steps before you go:
- Municipality: check the General Local Regulation (APV) of the municipality. Some municipalities ban magnet fishing, others allow it with rules.
- Owner or manager of the water: ask permission if the water belongs to someone, such as a nature organization, water board, marina or private individual. Many nature reserves ban magnet fishing.
- Archaeological finds: if you find something that looks old or historical, such as an old coin or an antique object, you must report it in the Netherlands to the Cultural Heritage Agency. Collecting archaeological finds from the water is not allowed.
- Belgium: in Flanders, the same rules apply to magnet fishing as to metal detecting, including recognition by Onroerend Erfgoed. Some municipalities also have a ban here.
Rules can change: therefore, always check them just before you go fishing in a new location.
Responsible magnet fishing
- Take everything you retrieve with you and do not throw anything back into the water. Scrap metal can be disposed of at the recycling center or a scrap metal dealer.
- Leave the bank clean: no mud, rusty items or litter on the sidewalk or in the grass.
- Be considerate of others: stay away from anglers, houseboats and gardens, and keep waterways clear.
- Respect nature: do not fish during the breeding season among reeds and bank vegetation and disturb the waterbed as little as possible.
Safe and sensible magnet fishing
- Explosives and weapons: have you retrieved something that looks like ammunition, a grenade or a firearm? Do not touch it further, lay it down carefully, warn bystanders to keep their distance and call 112 immediately. Old explosives can still explode.
- Gloves: finds are often sharp and rusty. Wear sturdy work gloves and make sure your tetanus vaccination is up to date.
- Not alone and not on a slippery bank: it is better to go with two people and stand firmly, not on a slippery bank or pier.
- Rope and knot: check them before every cast. If the magnet is stuck, do not pull with your full weight; try to pry it loose at an angle or let it go.
- Cables and pipes: do not fish near bridges, locks, mills or cable crossings.
- Children: only under the supervision of an adult. In Flanders, minors are only allowed under the supervision of a certified detectorist.
Frequently asked questions
Can I magnet fish anywhere?
No. The rules vary by municipality and water manager. Check the municipality's APV beforehand and ask permission from the owner or manager of the water.
What do I do if I retrieve ammunition or an explosive?
Do not touch it further, lay it down carefully, make everyone keep their distance and call 112 immediately. Do not take it with you and do not throw it back into the water.
What do I do with what I find?
Take it with you and hand it in at the recycling center or a scrap metal dealer. If it looks old or historical, report it to the Cultural Heritage Agency (in Flanders to Onroerend Erfgoed).
How do I maintain my fishing magnet?
Rinse the magnet with clean water after use, dry it and remove stuck metal particles. Check before every cast whether the eye nut is properly secured and whether the rope and knot are in order.
Is a fishing magnet dangerous?
Fishing magnets are very strong. Keep your fingers away between the magnet and metal, keep the magnet away from pacemakers, electronics and bank cards, and only let children magnet fish under supervision. See safe working with magnets.
When will my order be shipped?
Ordered and paid for on working days before 16:00, it will be shipped the same working day if in stock. Free shipping within the Netherlands from €45. Consumers have a 30-day cooling-off period.
