Guide to Magnet Fishing in Maryland: Where to Go and Is it Legal?‍

Magnet fishing is one of the most popular hobbies among outdoor enthusiasts in Maryland. Around 2.698 square miles of water make up over 21.75% of Maryland’s total area. As a result, the state is home to many water bodies, and magnet fishing is a great way to explore it while enjoying the natural beauty of the state and searching for lost treasures.

Is magnet fishing legal in Maryland?

Yes, it is legal to fish with magnets in Maryland as long as it’s public property. You must have the landowner’s permission to magnet fish on private property.

Of course, what is legal isn’t always ethical. It would not be the first time repeated, reckless or inconsiderate behavior resulted in federal regulation. Please have a look at our magnet fishing etiquette!

What are the best places to magnet fish in Maryland?

Many historic water bodies in Maryland offer great opportunities for magnet fishing. From lost pirate ships to hidden caches of gold, there is no telling what you might find if you venture into the depths. Here are some of the best spots.

Mallows Bay

Mallows Bay is a small bay near the Potomac River in Charles County, Maryland. It is a popular spot for magnet fishing. This bay is widely known as “Ship Graveyard.” It is home to the Ghost Fleet, which include hundreds of steamships build for the US Emergency Fleet during World War I.

The Chesapeake Bay

The Chesapeake Bay is a large estuary that runs along the eastern coast of the United States. It was the site of the Battle of the Capes in 1781, so you might find some hidden relics or ancient tools.

The Potomac River 

The Potomac River is another popular destination for magnet fishing. It is located in Maryland with Virginia on its southern shore and runs through 383 miles from the Appalachian Mountains to the Chesapeake Bay. This river was once a crucial transportation route during the American Civil War.

Other places you could try

  • HMS DeBraak Shipwrecks
  • Susquehanna River
  • Patapsco River

What can you find when magnet fishing in Maryland?

When magnet fishing in Maryland, things you can find include lost jewelry, old coins, and other lost or discarded magnetic objects.

This guy tried his luck at a public boat ramp in ocean city and found some pliers.

Additional resources

Did you stumble upon other useful resources, locations, or maps for magnet fishing in Maryland? Feel free to drop a comment down below!

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