Magnet fishing has become a popular hobby in recent years, and Oregon is a great state for it. There are many places to go magnet fishing, and the state’s laws are relatively permissive. Around 2,390 square miles of water make up 2.4 % of Oregon’s total area.
Is magnet fishing legal in Oregon?
Magnet Fishing in Oregon is legal as long as you follow the state’s regulations. These include not magnet fishing in an area designated as a wildlife refuge. It is also advisable not to magnet fish within 500 feet of a dam.
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 Oregon?
Oregon has no shortage of waterways and canals. Many waterways in Oregon are challenging to access, making magnet fishing them all the more rewarding. Here are our top locations considering the ease of access and potential to obtain unique treasures:
The Willamette River
If you’re looking for a great place to go magnet fishing in Oregon, the Willamette River is a great option. The river runs through the city of Portland and is a popular spot for magnet fishers.
The Columbia River
The Columbia River is another excellent option for magnet fishing in Oregon. It is the biggest river in the state and runs through the city of Portland. Many bridges and other structures in the river make for good magnet fishing spots. Ideally, you would want to magnet fish downstream from Portland to increase your chances of retrieving valuables lost by pedestrians in the city.
The McKenzie River
The McKenzie River is an excellent place to magnet fish if you’re looking for a more rural setting. The river runs through the Willamette National Forest and is a popular spot for fishing, hiking, and camping.
Salmonberry River
The Salmonberry River is another bountiful option for magnet fishing in Oregon. It runs through the Tillamook State Forest and is a popular spot for fishing, hiking, and camping.
Sandy River
The Sandy River is a good option for magnet fishing if you’re looking for a more rural setting. The river runs through the Mount Hood National Forest and is a popular spot for fishing, hiking, and camping.
Crater Lake National Park
Crater Lake National Park is a great place to go magnet fishing. The park is home to a large lake that is popular with fishers and magnet fishers alike. There are many bridges and other structures in the lake that make for good magnet fishing spots.
Deschutes River
The Deschutes River is another good magnet fishing spot in Oregon. The river runs through the Cascade Range and is a popular spot for fishing, hiking, and camping.
Other places you could try:
- Oregon has a rich industrial history, so it may be worth checking out old historic maps to identify man-made canals that were frequented back then.
- Altoona
- Washiugal river
- Greasham pond
- Hagg Lake
- Hawthorne bridge
- Blue Lake
- the river near Cathedral Park
- Mount Tabor Reservoir
- Waldo Lake
- Wallowa Lake
The best magnet fishing kit for Oregon’s waters
When magnet fishing in Oregon’s various waterways, Brute Magnetics provides the robustness and versatility needed. Its exceptional performance enhances exploration in the Beaver State’s rivers and lakes.
- Dangerously powerful!
- 200% more pulling distance
- 3500 lbs combined pulling force
- 434 lbs direct pulling force
- Cut resistant gloves
- 65 ft of Heavy-duty rope
- Quality Guarantee
What can you find when magnet fishing in Oregon?
Some common finds in Oregon include Old coins, keys, tools, jewelry, cans, and bottles. Unfortunately, under some locations like Hawthorne bridge, you may also accidentally recover used syringes as a side catch! So always wear gloves and inspect your catch thoroughly before grabbing it.
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.
- Here is a fantastic collection of various maps of the state of Oregon dating back all the way to 1866! These maps show reservoirs, dams, land use, and popular trails. If you’re a history nerd hunting for artifacts, this is a promising starting point!
Did you stumble upon other useful resources, locations or maps for magnet fishing in Oregon? Feel free to drop a comment down below!
