Treasure Hunt: Is Magnet Fishing Legal in Montana?
Spring is here and it is time for Spring cleaning. I have already begun picking up around the yard and trimming trees. In between chores, I find myself taking a break along the river. I noticed trash and junk all over the banks, and thought "maybe it is time for some Spring cleaning down here too."
I began to wonder how much junk was underwater. Maybe a person could use an agent to clean some underwater junk? You know the old saying "One Man's Trash is Another Man's Treasure?" Who knows what I could find on the riverbed? Maybe that is why "magnet fishing" has become such a popular outdoor activity.
Read More: Mushroom Tech: A New Technique for Finding Montana Morels
Magnet fishing can recover anything metal from the river bed. Things like discarded bikes, guns, safes, coins, and car tire rims from bodies of water. Most people who are into magnet fishing are hoping to find rare and valuable items as well.
Some states don't allow magnet fishing. However, Montana allows magnet fishing in public water. You just need to be aware of restrictions on certain bodies of water. Simply check Montana FWP maps and regulations for restricted areas. According to the Magnet Fishing is Fun website, here are the best places to find treasures while magnet fishing in Montana.
- YELLOWSTONE RIVER
- LAKE KOOCANUSA
- MADISON RIVER
- GALLATIN RIVER
- FLATHEAD LAKE
- THE MISSOURI RIVER
- BIGHORN RIVER
- FORT PECK LAKE
- HELLENA PONDS AND CANALS
If you want to try magnet fishing for yourself, you can purchase kits filled with everything you need online. Once again, make sure to read State/FWP regulations on a body of water before you go out. And happy treasure hunting.
30 Items That Montana Goodwill Will NOT Accept
Gallery Credit: KC