Metal Detecting in the UK River Banks
Metal detectors are great tools for finding lost or buried treasure. The idea behind them is simple: place a detector near the ground and listen for the sound of metal hitting the ground.
Dig where the sound came from until you hit metal if you hear something. Then you’ll know exactly where the object is located.
Metal detectors are available in several types today. Each type offers its advantages and disadvantages.
For example, some detectors are better at picking up coins, while others find rings and bracelets.
Metal detectors are also helpful for locating hidden objects such as guns and jewellery. Some people even use them to find essential metals such as gold metal.
Why Metal Detect in Rivers or Streams?
Metal detecting is a fantastic hobby. It’s also a costly hobby. Since I was a kid, I’ve been metal detecting, and I still love it today.
But why would anyone spend thousands of dollars on equipment, go through all the trouble of learning how to use it, and only search rivers and streams?
There are several reasons why metal detecting in rivers and streams is so fun.
First, most rivers and streams contain lots of history. This includes old ruins, ancient artefacts, and even historical documents.
Second, rivers and streams often run over buried treasure. There are tons of stories about precious metals, lost gold, silver, and jewels from the past.
Third, rivers and streams are full of wildlife. From fish to birds, rivers and streams are home to incredible creatures.
Fourth, rivers and streams are beautiful places to visit. They’re peaceful, relaxing, and serene.
Fifth, rivers and streams are easy to access. Most rivers and streams don’t require special permits or licenses. And most cities and towns have public parks where you can legally hunt for treasures.
Sixth, rivers and streams tend to be clean. There’s nothing worse than finding something cool while swimming in a dirty river or stream.
Seventh, rivers and streams are safe. While searching for odd treasures, you’ll probably encounter lots of different types of animals. Some of which might be dangerous.
Eighth, rivers and streams are cheap. You won’t find a lot of hidden treasure, but you’ll still enjoy the experience of metal detecting.
And ninth, rivers and streams are accessible. You can easily travel to rivers and streams by car, boat, or plane.
So if you want to try metal detecting in rivers and streams, here are some tips to keep in mind.
- First, you need to know what you’re looking for. Many people start metal detecting without knowing precisely what they’re looking for. That’s okay, but it’s important to know what you’re after before you start digging.
- Second, you need to know where to look. Many rivers and streams are located near large bodies of water. So if you’re looking for something specific, you’ll likely need to check around the edges of the lake or ocean.
- Third, you need to know when to stop. Don’t dig too far down. You’ll eventually hit bedrock. This will lead to wasted time.
- Fourth, you need to know how to care for your equipment correctly. You don’t want to damage your detector or ruin your chances of finding anything.
- Finally, you need to know the rules. In most states, you need a permit to search for treasure. Make sure to read the laws on metal detecting before you begin.
Rivers and Streams: What Metal Detecting Equipment Is Needed?
The answer depends on whether you plan to do land-based or water-based searches.
If you’re going to search the land to metal detect, you’ll need a metal detector with a magnetometer. These detectors will help you locate solid metal or items made out of iron.
If you’re doing water-based searches, you should get a waterproof metal detector with an underwater transducer. These detectors will help detect items such as coins, jewellery, and other particular metal under the water’s surface.
There are three main types of metal detectors used by treasure hunters: handheld, backpack, and vehicle-mounted.
Each has its advantages and disadvantages.
A handheld metal detector is the most popular choice for treasure hunting. They are easy to use and portable. However, they are also costly.
Backpack metal detector is cheaper than handhelds but requires a large amount of space.
A vehicle-mounted metal detector is the least common option. They are generally only available to professional treasure hunters. They are much larger than handhelds and backpacks and require special training to operate.
The best type of metal detector depends on your budget and personal preference. A handheld metal detector will work fine if you’re starting. But if you plan on doing this as a career, I’d recommend investing in a backpack metal detector.
What Kinds of Streams is BEST for Metal Detecting?
In general, rivers and streams are great places to find old gold and silver. The reason is that these areas tend to have more sedimentation than lakes and oceans. Sedimentation means there’s more chance of finding artefacts.
However, not all streams are created equal. Some are better than others. Here are some things you can consider when choosing a stream to search:
Size: Smaller streams are easier to navigate. This makes them ideal for beginners. More significant streams may be harder to navigate.
Depth: Most streams have a maximum depth of about 30 feet. Anything more profound will take longer to reach.
Current: A fast current will make it difficult to walk along the bottom. It will also make it hard to hear what you’re hearing.
Water Temperature: Coldwater is less conductive, making it easier to detect objects. Warm water is harder to detect.
Depth of Bottom Sand: Deep sand is suitable for detecting artefacts. Shallow sand is better for walking.
Are Clothes Important Metal Detecting?
Is clothing necessary when metal detecting?
Clothing is usually not necessary unless you’re searching in cold weather. You don’t want to freeze your hands off while trying to hold onto your metal detector.
But if you’re planning to go into the woods during the winter months, you might want to bring gloves. And if you’re planning to hunt near bodies of water, you might want to wear boots.
Should You Metal Detect in a River or Stream?
Metal detecting in a river or stream is different from metal detecting in a lake or ocean. When looking for the metal in a body of water, you need to know how deep the water is.
If the water is shallow enough to see the bottom, you should probably avoid using a metal detector. You’ll have a better chance of finding something with a metal detector if you look at the bottom first.
If the water is too deep for you to see the bottom, try to get down as close to the bottom as possible. Use a metal detector to listen for any sounds indicating an artefact.
How to be SAFE Metal Detecting in a River?
To be safe, follow these tips:
Be careful where you step. Don’t place your foot directly over a large rock. Instead, use small stones or sticks to create a path.
Don’t walk through standing water. Water conducts electricity. So if you walk through standing water, you could short-circuit your metal detector.
Don’t touch anything you find. If you feel something metallic, pick it up carefully. Hold it by the edges. Then gently shake it. If nothing happens, leave it alone.
Use caution around sharp rocks. Sharp rocks can cut your skin. Be especially careful around sharp jagged rocks. They can easily slice open your hand.
Last Words
People enjoy metal detecting for a variety of reasons. However, one thing they all share is their love of nature. Whether you’re just starting or you’ve been doing this for years, we hope you enjoy our articles on metal detecting.
Thanks for reading, and I hope you will keep coming back.