Magnet Fishing do’s and don’ts
Dave Sonik Jordan’s guide to Magnet fishing. There is no question that Magnet Fishing is a fun and interesting hobby, but it can be dangerous. Safety is paramount when it comes to fishing the UK’s canals and waterways.
Below are some basic do’s and don’ts to help keep you and others keep safe while magnet fishing the UK’s waterways.
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Some Do’s for Magnet Fishing. Click the plus sign to expand.
Do wear gloves
You will pull up many sharp and rusty objects so you want a strong pair of gloves. Also imagine the fish hook stuck in your rope that no-one saw.
Do clean up after yourself
You always want to leave a place better than you found it. Magnet fishing is about cleaning the environment, not leaving it messy.
Do make sure children are safe
Always make sure they are wearing life jackets and keep a close eye on them near the waters edge
Do wear suitable clothing
Steel toecap boots are a must, heavy duty trousers and/or waterproofs in the cold weather and never your Sunday best, this is a dirty hobby!
Do use a H frame
A H frame on all your ropes will save you a lot of time untangling them
Do take all scrap away
If it’s a small amount then use a local bin. For larger amounts either take to a scrapyard yourself or call a reliable local scrap-man (there is a Dippers & Scrappers directory on Facebook)
Do use a bucket for small scrap (Crud)
This will keep the area tidy and saves any pets or wildlife stepping on it and getting hurt.
Do be aware of other magnets
Getting two magnets stuck together is never fun! Gotta watch your fingers and then you’ve got to worry about getting them apart.
Do park vehicles responsibly
Don’t annoy the locals by blocking their driveways or getting yourself a ticket, it’s not worth it.
Some Don’ts for Magnet Fishing. Click the plus sign to expand.
Don’t fish on your own where possible
Always let someone know where you are going to be if you are solo fishing. Magnet fishing is safer and more fun with other people.
Don’t trespass
Magnet fishing on private land without permission is a strict no-no. It’s easier to move on if asked than to argue.
Don’t tie the rope to yourself
Always tie off the rope to railings or a sturdy tree or post. You don’t want to end up in the water.
Don’t block rights of way
The public still use the paths so be aware of your equipment blocking the way and when swinging your magnet, this includes looking for cyclists and boats.
Don’t go into the water on your own
If you need to go into the water only do so if you are an experienced swimmer and have people helping you. Tie a rope to yourself so you can pull yourself to the side. Take every precaution to keep yourself safe.
Don’t stand on the rope
Always check where your rope is before you throw; the potential to pull you in, if the rope is looped around your leg, is great.
Don’t stand on uneven ground
The potential to fall is huge, so stand on firm, flat ground where possible, or behind railings
Don’t throw around heavy boat traffic
It’s embarrassing to ask for your magnet back from a passing boat. Also you don’t want to damage a boat or your magnet.
Don’t litter
Don’t add to the problem; we are trying to make the area better for the wildlife, in fact we should litter-pick the area while we are there.