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Magnet Fishing In New York

Top 10 Places to Find Hidden Treasures

New York brims with perfect spots for magnet fishing. Think about places like the Hudson River, East River, Gowanus Bay, Central Park Lake, and Harlem River where both history and human traffic stir up interesting finds. Now if you think city adventuring is all about historical items, it's not; modern treasures can also be found making every fishing expedition in New York City a thrilling surprise. You might want to start at a riverfront or a pier.


One popular spot for magnet fishing in New York is the Hudson River, particularly around piers and docks where historical items may have been deposited. Additionally, Central Park Lake is another great location to consider due to its rich history and potential for discovering unique items.


Hudson River

Hudson River

New York Magnet Fishing Spots

Hudson River

The Hudson River stands out as a top choice for magnet fishing enthusiasts, given its rich history and high human activity. The piers and docks along the riverbanks offer a diverse array of potential finds, ranging from vintage coins to antique tools, and perhaps even relics from historical events.

East River

Moving on to the East River, the area north of RFK provides excellent opportunities for uncovering unique items due to its historical significance and heavy human traffic over the years. Tossing your magnet in vertically instead of dragging it back may make it easier to catch items, especially around Transmitter Park. Here, you might discover anything from old artifacts to quirky knick-knacks hidden beneath the water's surface, waiting to be hauled up by your trusty magnet.

Gowanus Bay

Gowanus Bay is known for its fascinating array of finds due to the diverse human activity in its waterfront areas, making it an intriguing spot for magnet fishing enthusiasts. Keep an eye out for old relics and artifacts dating back to various historical periods. The thrill of pulling up items with unknown stories behind them is part of what makes Gowanus Bay such an exciting spot for magnet fishing.

Central Park Lake

Central Park Lake provides a serene yet equally rewarding experience for magnet fishers. The lake has been witness to countless human activities over the years, resulting in a plethora of lost or discarded items waiting to be discovered. Your magnets may reveal hidden gems like vintage coins, discarded jewelry, or even forgotten tools—each item telling a unique story rooted in the history of the area.

Bronx River

Another unexpected gem is the Bronx River, particularly around the Bronx River Parkway. The history and significance of this area make it an intriguing spot for magnet fishing. Over the years, people have reported finding antique items and even relics from the early settlements in this area, like digging through a treasure trove of forgotten history.

Canandaigua Lake

Canandaigua Lake is a popular tourist spot in New York, and it's also a great magnet fishing location. The lake bed is home to many interesting finds, including old coins, jewelry, and fishing gear.

Erie Canal

The Erie Canal is a 363-mile-long waterway that runs through upstate New York. This canal is perfect for finding old locks, tools, and even antique bottles.

Oneida Lake

Oneida Lake is one of the largest lakes in New York and a magnet fishing haven. This spot is perfect for finding unique items such as old fishing lures and antique coins.

Seneca Lake

Seneca Lake is the deepest of the Finger Lakes and an excellent magnet fishing location. This spot is perfect for finding lost fishing gear, antique bottles, and other interesting items.

Champlain Canal

The Champlain Canal is another magnet fishing destination in upstate New York. This canal is a popular spot for finding old coins, antique bottles, and other unique items.

New York Magnet Fishing Laws & Regulations


Magnet fishing, while generally allowed in New York, comes with a few restrictions and guidelines that enthusiasts must adhere to. It's crucial to review these local regulations and understand the definition of artifacts to ensure compliance while engaging in magnet fishing activities.


The New York regulations primarily limit the removal of artifacts over 100 years old, aiming to preserve historical items of significance. This serves as a thoughtful reminder to approach this hobby with respect for the local history and culture. Engaging in magnet fishing within the constraints set by these rules promotes responsible and ethical participation in the activity.


Given the historical significance of certain areas, such as bodies of water or designated archaeological sites, it is essential to conduct thorough research before embarking on a magnet fishing adventure. Familiarize yourself with specific sites and their historical context to ensure that you are complying with all regulations. By doing so, you can actively contribute to the preservation of historical artifacts and promote a positive image of the magnet fishing community.


For instance, Lake Erie has been known to yield fascinating finds in New York, including a 1930s-era car and various other historical items. However, it's imperative for magnet fishers to be aware of the regulations surrounding these artifacts and handle any discoveries responsibly.


It is worth noting that using appropriate equipment such as neodymium magnets with adequate pull force not only enhances the chances of making intriguing finds but also contributes to adhering to restrictions on artifact removal by ensuring careful retrieval without causing damage.


Educating oneself about local regulations and abiding by them fosters environmental stewardship and fosters ethical involvement in preserving the state's natural and historical treasures. The distinct charm of magnet fishing lies not only in exciting discoveries but also in upholding a sense of reverence for historical artifacts and conservation efforts.


Understanding and respecting local regulations not only ensures legal compliance but also contributes to the preservation of historical artifacts, adding an enriching layer to the experience of magnet fishing in New York.


Be sure to read our post on  What to Do If You Find a Gun Magnet Fishing  for guidance on legal, safety, and ethical implications.

Here are some magnet fishing finds in New York.

  • In 2024, a couple found a safe full of $100 bills estimated to be worth over $80,000 in a pond in Queens. Full story.
  • In 2021, a magnet fisher in the Hudson River found a 19th century pocket watch. The watch was in working condition and was valued at over $1,000.
  • In 2020, a magnet fisher in the Erie Canal found a Civil War-era musket ball. The musket ball was in good condition and was donated to a local historical society.
  • In 2019, a magnet fisher in Lake Erie found a 1930s-era car. The car was in poor condition, but it was still a unique find.
  • In 2018, a group of magnet fishers in Buffalo found a 100-year-old bicycle that was in near-perfect condition. The bicycle was donated to a local museum.
  • In 2019, a magnet fisher in Syracuse found a World War II bomb. The bomb was safely detonated by the police.
  • In 2019, a man in Amsterdam, New York found a loaded revolver while magnet fishing in the Mohawk River.
  • In 2020, a group of magnet fishermen discovered a safe containing jewelry and other valuables in a river in upstate New York.


As we wrap up our journey through the magnetic history beneath New York's waterways, let's not overlook the myriad treasures waiting to be discovered by those with a keen eye and a sturdy magnet. From the bustling banks of the Hudson River to the serene waters of Central Park Lake, each location offers its own unique blend of historical intrigue and modern marvels.


The Hudson River, a vital artery through New York's history, beckons with the promise of antique tools, vintage coins, and echoes of the past embedded in its silted depths. Here, the piers and docks stand as silent witnesses to centuries of human endeavor, each with stories to tell those willing to listen.


Venture to the East River, particularly around the north of RFK near Transmitter Park, and you'll find yourself in a magnet fisher's paradise. The vertical drop of your magnet could reveal old artifacts or quirky treasures that have slipped through the cracks of time, lying in wait beneath the gentle ebb and flow.


Gowanus Bay, with its rich tapestry of human activity, offers a different kind of thrill. The diversity of finds, from historical relics to items of curious origin, provides a tangible link to the various eras that have shaped this waterfront.


Central Park Lake offers a quieter but equally rewarding magnet fishing experience, where the calm waters hide gems of the past. Vintage coins, forgotten jewelry, and tools from bygone days are just some of the treasures that may emerge, each piece adding to the storied landscape of New York.


But the adventure doesn't end there. New York's waterways, including the hidden gems of Prospect Park Lake, the Bronx River, and the vast expanse of Lake Ontario, among others, hold untold secrets beneath their surfaces. These lesser-known spots, from the tranquility of Cayuga Lake in the Finger Lakes region to the historic Erie Canal Harbor in Buffalo, promise a bounty of finds, blending history with the thrill of discovery.


The tapestry of New York's magnet fishing locales is rich with the potential for discovery. Whether it's the allure of unearthing a piece of history, the excitement of snagging a modern-day artifact, or simply the joy of connecting with the city's aquatic veins, each location offers a unique story to tell.


As you embark on your magnet fishing endeavors, remember the importance of respecting local regulations and the environment. The treasures you find not only add to your collection but also to the collective memory of New York, bridging the gap between past and present.


In essence, the waters of New York are a magnet fisher's dream, a repository of history's relics waiting to be discovered. Whether you're a seasoned angler of the magnetic kind or a curious newcomer, the rivers, lakes, and bays of the Empire State invite you to explore their depths, uncover their secrets, and perhaps, in the process, connect with the rich tapestry of stories that flow through New York's heart.


Checkout our reviewed selection of magnet fishing gear to get outfitted for your next trip, or our guides on the  best magnets  and  best magnet fishing kits  to make your adventure one to remember. Also take a look at the Found Treasure page to see some of the interesting magnet fishing finds across the country. Remember  safety first  and to properly  dispose  of what you don't keep.

Magnet fishing clubs in New York

Club Name Description Club Website
New York Magnet Fishing Public Facebook group for enthusiasts across the state. Shares finds, locations, and safety tips.

New York Magnet Fishing

Long Island Magnet Fishing Public Facebook group dedicated to Long Island, NY. Shares local spots, finds, and tips.

Long Island Magnet Fishing

Empire State Magnet Fishing Focuses on exploring New York's waterways' history. Facebook: facebook.com/EmpireStateMagnetFishing

Empire State Magnet Fishing

Do you know of a Magnet Fishing club or group in New York not listed here? Please share with us to keep this list up to date.

  • Is magnet fishing legal in New York?

    Yes, magnet fishing is legal in New York, but there are some regulations to follow. It is legal to fish in public bodies of water, such as rivers, lakes, and canals, as long as you have the necessary permits and follow the state's fishing regulations. However, you should avoid fishing in private property without permission from the landowner.
  • What is the best magnet for magnet fishing in New York?

    The best magnet for magnet fishing in New York is a neodymium magnet. These magnets are strong and can pick up heavy metal objects, making them perfect for magnet fishing. It's important to choose a magnet with a pull force of at least 500 lbs. to ensure that you can retrieve heavy items. See our product reviews to find the one right for you.
  • What kind of things can you find while magnet fishing in New York?

    Magnet fishing in New York can lead to a variety of interesting finds. Some of the most common items found while magnet fishing in New York include vintage coins, antique tools, fishing gear, guns, and even cars. The types of items you can find will depend on the location you choose to fish and the history of the area. However, it's important to note that you should always dispose of any hazardous or illegal items properly.

Also check out these nearby states Pennsylvania , New Jersey , Connecticut , Vermont , Massachusetts , New Hampshire.

Author: Will Flaiz

Discover the world's hidden treasures through magnet fishing! We're calling all magnet fishing enthusiasts to share their favorite locations for this exciting hobby.


Whether it's a serene river, a bustling city canal, or a secret spot only you know about, your recommendations can help fellow adventurers find their next great find. Share your top magnet fishing locations with us and let's explore the depths together. Your insights could reveal new and exciting places for others to enjoy.


Join our community and let's uncover the hidden gems that lie beneath the water's surface.


Happy exploring!

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