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

Whether you live in the suburbs or in Manhattan, New York has plenty to offer for magnet fishers. 13.62% of New York’s area is water. The state has over 7600 freshwater ponds, reservoirs, lakes, and over 70,000 miles of rivers. Be it the surrounding shore or the water bodies in one of the state’s many parks. Here are the best places to go magnet fishing in New York.

Is magnet fishing legal in New York?

Magnet fishing in New York is legal. There are no laws against the practice and plenty of places to do it. So, as long as you’re not on private property without permission, you can magnet fish in New York. However, this type of fishing can be classified as littering because you’re leaving behind debris on the shoreline or park grounds.

Of course, what is legal isn’t always ethical, and it would not be the first time inappropriate results in federal regulation. Please have a look at our Magnet Fishing Etiquette!

What are the best places to magnet fish in New York?

New York may not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of magnet fishing, but this state has some hidden treasures for those who are interested in trying it out. Whether you live in a suburb or in the city itself, there are plenty of opportunities to explore New York’s waterways and parks with a magnet. While places like Niagara Falls offer unmatched beautiful sceneries the density of metallic objects in the waters is likely much lower, than in places frequented by pedestrians like Central Parks’ reservoirs.

Boat Ramps and Piers at Hudson River

One of the most popular places to go magnet fishing in New York is along the banks of the Hudson River. It runs through many scenic areas, including Albany and Troy, as well as one of New York City’s most famous tourist attractions: West Point. The river also offers great views of beautiful nature and is easily accessible from many parts of the state.

The Erie Canal

Another great place for magnet fishing in New York is along the Erie Canal. This waterway runs for over 400 miles across upstate New York and was once an important route for trade and transportation. Today, it’s a popular spot for recreation and is a great place to fish, swim, or just enjoy the scenery.

Central Park

In the heart of New York City lies one of its most beloved landmarks: Central Park. This large park is a great place to take a stroll, have a picnic, or go magnet fishing! The ponds and lakes in the park offer ample opportunities to catch something interesting, and you never know what treasures you might find. Central Park has a variety of large water bodies, that contain metallic objects people have discarded over the years. Central Park offers the Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir, the Lake, the Turtle Pond, and many more ponds and lakes that are frequented by visitors every day. Therefore, you have a decent chance of finding many items of value in Central Park.

One of the most common items that people who visit Central Park find are coins. This is because of the fact that lots of people are used to throwing their coins into ponds and lakes. The metal detectors are used to pick up these metallic objects, which can offer a decent amount of money if they were not thrown away.

Coney Island

Coney Island is a world-famous amusement park in Brooklyn, New York. It’s home to rides, games, and attractions, as well as a beach and boardwalk. And of course, there’s plenty of opportunity for magnet fishing here! The waters around Coney Island are known to be full of all sorts of interesting things, so you’re sure to find something fun (and maybe even valuable!) if you go magnet fishing here.

Lake Champlain

Lake Champlain is a large lake that forms part of the border between New York and Vermont. It’s a popular spot for all sorts of water activities, including fishing, swimming, and boating. It’s quite remote and peaceful in some parts, making it a great place to go magnet fishing. Who knows what you might find in the depths of Lake Champlain!

Watkins Glen State Park

Watkins Glen State Park is located in the Finger Lakes region of New York. It’s best known for its stunning waterfalls, but it’s also a great place to go magnet fishing. The park has several ponds and lakes that are perfect for magnet fishing. And who knows, you might even find a waterfall or two while you’re at it!

Thousand Islands

The Thousand Islands is a group of small islands in the Saint Lawrence River. It’s a popular tourist destination, but it’s also a great place to go magnet fishing and relax.

Niagara Falls State Park

If you want to magnet fish in a location with beautiful scenery, there’s no better place than Buffalo’s Niagara Falls State Park. Alongside its iconic waterfall, the park also has several canals and streams where you can find old coins and other metal objects.

Other places you could try:

• East River off of WNYC Transmitter Park
• Gowanus bay
• bike path right on Harlem River drive
• Edgewater and Hoboken
• dead horse bay
• glass bottle beach

What can you find when magnet fishing in New York?

New Yorkers have found all sorts of things when magnet fishing, from old coins to jewelry and even a human skull!

Not valuable, but definitely unique: This guy found medical waste, such as acupuncture needles in Queens, New York City.

Additional resources

• Of course, we also have plenty of more general tips on how to find the perfect magnet fishing spot in your area!
• Here is a detailed map, that conveniently shows all the different types of water bodies across the U.S.
• Boat ramps are ideal for magnet fishers. Often times, the owner will be happy to let you remove bulky material that may cause damages to their boats or obstruct their launch. Here is a comprehensive overview of boat launch sites for each county in New York.

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