Magnet Fishing’s popularity has skyrocketed in many parts of the world, including Michigan. Around 41.54% of Michigan’s total area is water, which offers an excellent opportunity to go magnet fishing. There are many reasons people try magnet fishing, but the most common is finding hidden treasures. Here are the best spots to go magnet fishing in Michigan.
Is Magnet Fishing Legal in Michigan?
The answer is yes! There are no specific laws against magnet fishing in the state of Michigan. However, that doesn’t mean you can go magnet fishing wherever you want. You’ll still need to get permission from the landowner before magnet fishing on their property. Also, you should always be mindful of other people when magnet fishing. It includes other anglers and boaters who may be passing through the area. If you find any historical artifacts while magnet fishing, it’s important to report them to local authorities to document their preservation properly.
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 Michigan?
With so much coastline, lakes, and rivers, it can be challenging to know where to start. One of the best places to magnet fish in Michigan is along the western shoreline. There is a wide variety of waterways ranging from large inland lakes to smaller creeks and rivers.
Lake Michigan
Lake Michigan is a popular magnet fishing destination in Michigan. With over 3,000 miles of shoreline and countless islands, coves, beaches, and other scenic spots to explore, you could spend days magnet fishing along this iconic lake. Great places to try magnet fishing are the Grand Haven Pier and the South Manitou Island Lighthouse.
Grand Traverse Bay
This large bay is located along the west side of Michigan and is another great spot for magnet fishing. There is plenty of water to explore with its many coves, inlets, and islands. Popular magnet fishing spots include the Boardman River, the Suttons Bay shipwreck, and the Betsie Rivers.
Little Bay de Noc
Little Bay de Noc is another hot spot to go magnet fishing, located in the northwest corner of Lake Michigan. With its vast network of rivers and creeks, there are many opportunities to explore. Some popular magnet fishing locations in this region include the Big Bay de Noc Shipwreck, the Thompsonville Dam, and the Munising Falls.
Houghton Lake
Houghton Lake is the largest inland lake in the state of Michigan. It is a popular destination for many outdoor activities, including magnet fishing. Some popular spots are the Houghton Lake Dam, the West Branch of the Au Sable River, and the Higgins Lake State Park.
Manistee Lake
It is an all-sport lake that is also good for magnet fishing. The crystal clear waters make for great magnet fishing. Popular spots to try your luck include the Manistee River, the Manistee Lake Dam, and the Bear Lake State Park.
Other places you could try:
- Saginaw Bay near Detroit and Saginaw River
- St. Clair Flats State Wildlife Area
- Au Sable River (especially around Oscoda)
The best magnet fishing kit for North Carolina’s waters
For the myriad rivers and lakes that North Carolina offers to magnet fishers, Brute Magnetics proves to be a reliable and durable tool, optimizing the exploration of the Tar Heel State’s varied aquatic settings.
What can you find when magnet fishing in Michigan?
You can find all sorts of things when magnet fishing in Michigan. Some of the more common items include jewelry, coins, knives, tools, keys, and batteries.
Magnet Fishing (GRAND RAPIDS, MI) feat. Rustic Treassure Hunters and Drag The Water *ANTIQUE SHEARS*
Some common finds when magnet fishing in Michigan
Additional resources
- With the help of this guide you’ll find the perfect magnet fishing spot near you!
- Here is a detailed map, that conveniently shows all the different types of water bodies across the U.S.
Did you stumble upon other useful resources, locations, or maps for magnet fishing in Michigan? Feel free to drop a comment down below!
Is it necessary to buy a license to be able to do magnet fishing, if so where can one go to get it and how much do they cost?