If you were looking for buried treasure, would you search on an Island that Pirates were shipped wrecked on? The best place to use a Metal Detector just may be the shallows near tidal water. With the proper tools and techniques can you find treasure in shallow water. What are some tips for using a metal detector in shallow water on the beach?
- Use a waterproof detector & accessories
- Search during low tide for more exposed area
- Start along the shoreline & work deeper gradually
- Watch for hazards like rocks or currents
- Use a waterproof pinpointer for precision
- Be gentle to avoid stirring up sediment
- Rinse equipment with fresh water after use
- Follow local regulations & respect the environment
With the right equipment and the right instructions, you can make some finds that you probably walked over a few times not knowing that the ground right under your feet was where you should have been looking all along.
Metal Detecting Beach Tips
If you’re worried about losing something in your pockets at the beach on any given day well you have a good reason. People have been losing items like rings, coins, and keys for a hundred years. The violent surf kicks up the sand and strong currents rip up the whole area sometimes where you can’t recognize the place a day after you spent the whole week there.
If you ever had the misfortune of losing a ring swimming in the surf and no matter how clear the ocean is that day, you soon realize it’s a hopeless situation diving underneath the water to try and recover it.
Think about it, a beach in New Jersey like Atlantic City. How many millions of people have visited the beach throughout a couple of hundred years and have laid on the beach and swam in the surf? How many of those men and women have lost a coin or a ring something of value?
Some people look at this beach and see the sun and fun, some people see fish that they could catch. Some people see gold treasure buried within feet of the surf the same surf that’s been pounding the same beach for two hundred years. It’s kind of a different way of looking at things. I look at life a little differently.
Metal detecting at the beach can be an exciting and rewarding hobby. Here are some tips to make the most out of your beach metal-detecting experience:
- Choose the Right Detector: Invest in a metal detector specifically designed for beach hunting. Look for models with waterproof coils and shafts to withstand the elements.
- Research the Area: Before heading to the beach, research its history. Look for areas where people gather, such as near beach entrances, volleyball courts, or picnic areas, as these are prime spots for finding lost items.
- Timing is Key: Metal detect during low tide or shortly after a storm when the sand has been shifted. This exposes more of the beach and increases your chances of finding buried treasures.
- Bring the Right Gear: Besides your metal detector, bring along a sturdy sand scoop or trowel for digging, a pouch or bag to hold your finds, and a sand sifter to quickly sort through the debris.
- Watch the Tides: Be mindful of the tides to avoid getting stranded or having your finds washed away. Keep track of tide schedules and plan your hunts accordingly.
- Cover Ground Methodically: Start your search along the waterline where items tend to wash up and work your way inland. Grid patterns can help ensure you cover the area thoroughly.
- Check Local Regulations: Some beaches may have restrictions or permit requirements for metal detecting. Make sure to familiarize yourself with any rules before detecting to avoid fines or penalties.
- Be Respectful: Fill in any holes you dig and leave the beach in the same condition as you found it. Always obtain permission before detecting on private property and be courteous to other beachgoers.
- Use Discrimination Settings: Set your metal detector to discriminate against unwanted targets like bottle caps and pull tabs while still detecting valuable items like coins and jewelry.
- Stay Safe: Be cautious of sharp objects, marine life, and inclement weather conditions. Wear sunscreen, stay hydrated, and be aware of your surroundings at all times.
By following these tips, you can enhance your beach metal-detecting experience and increase your chances of uncovering hidden treasures. Happy hunting!
Pulse Induction Metal Detector vs VLF
There are two different types of Waterproof Metal Detectors Technologies today they are:
- Pulse Induction Metal Detector-Transmit a series of quick electronic pulses into the ground these signals are not affected by wet salt sand or minerals found in the ground. They are highly sensitive to precious metals. They are the best instruments to use on beaches, in saltwater, and in ocean diving. The Pulse circuit is very deep seeking it has limited discrimination capabilities so you will need to dig more trash items to get to the big prize.
- (VLF) Very Low-Frequency Metal Detectors-(VLF)-Typically operate in the 3-30 kHz frequencies and are very sensitive to coins and jewelry. The VLF detectors can discriminate against junk targets while still finding the good stuff you’re looking for. Most VLF detectors have a sensitivity control and by adjusting this knob you can minimize ground signals caused by minerals.
Pulse Induction (PI) and Very Low Frequency (VLF) metal detectors are two primary types used in beach metal detecting, each with its advantages and disadvantages. Here’s a breakdown of both:
- Pulse Induction (PI) Metal Detectors:
- Depth: PI detectors excel in in-depth penetration, making them suitable for detecting deeper targets buried under the sand.
Metal Detecting Clearwater Beach - Performance in Mineralized Soil: They perform well in highly mineralized soil conditions, which are common on many beaches.
- Waterproofing: Many PI detectors are waterproof, allowing you to search in shallow water and wet sand.
- Saltwater Tolerance: PI detectors handle saltwater interference better than VLF detectors, making them suitable for saltwater beaches.
- No Discrimination: PI detectors typically lack discrimination features, meaning they detect all metals indiscriminately. This can result in more digging but also potentially more finds.
- Depth: PI detectors excel in in-depth penetration, making them suitable for detecting deeper targets buried under the sand.
- Very Low Frequency (VLF) Metal Detectors:
- Target Discrimination: VLF detectors often come with discrimination features, allowing you to filter out unwanted targets like iron, foil, or pull tabs. This feature can save time by reducing the need to dig up junk.
- Sensitivity to Small Targets: VLF detectors are generally more sensitive to smaller targets and can better distinguish between different types of metals.
- Ground Balance: Some VLF detectors have manual or automatic ground balance features, which can help in reducing interference from mineralized soil.
- Price: VLF detectors are often more affordable than PI detectors, making them a popular choice for beginners.
- Not Suitable for Saltwater Beaches: They can struggle with interference from saltwater, limiting their effectiveness on saltwater beaches.
Tips for Beach Metal Detecting:
- Research the Beach: Learn about the history of the beach you plan to detect. Knowing where people gathered in the past can increase your chances of finding valuable items.
- Timing: Plan your detecting sessions during low tide when more beach area is exposed.
- Equipment Maintenance: Ensure your metal detector is properly maintained, especially if you’re using it in saltwater environments to prevent corrosion.
- Stay Legal: Be aware of local regulations regarding metal detecting on beaches, as some areas may have restrictions or require permits.
- Safety: Watch out for hazards like sharp objects or marine life while detecting, especially in the water.
Choosing between a PI and VLF detector depends on your specific needs and the type of beach you’ll be detecting on. If you’re primarily detecting in saltwater or highly mineralized soil, a PI detector may be the better choice. However, if target discrimination and sensitivity to small items are more important to you, a VLF detector might be the way to go.
Pulse Induction Metal Detector for the Beach
There are a few companies that make great detectors. You may want a metal detector that will work on land and is waterproof. You can find one here at MyWaterEarth&Sky the Minelab Excalibur II 800 Garden Metal Detector is great-priced. It only weighs about 7-8 lbs. so you’re not killing yourself lugging around heavy equipment you don’t need.
You need to make sure the detector alarms when it detects gold and has large enough target IDs that are easy to read and distinguish apart from each other. The machine should be able to distinguish or discriminate between different targets either set manually or automatically.
You would think they all do but they all don’t. Also, saltwater tends to ruin electronic or electrical equipment so you need a metal detector that will not only be water-proof but will be able to withstand the corrosive nature of saltwater.
A good unit will always have an easy instructional learning curve to operate. I want to find the buried treasure I’m not interested in becoming an engineer or an electronics expert. You don’t want the sand to be an obstacle either because even though you looking underwater you still are looking under sand too. Black sand typically hurts metal detector readouts. Battery life should be comparable and easy to maintain.
The detector needs a comfortable harness. Headphones are not all waterproof and the chances of you dumping a set in the surf- trust me on this one guy… you’ll drop them. The last thing is depth and that would depend on where you are going to use it. Normally you have to pull your headphones off before you start digging So wireless headphones are a great idea.
Metal Detector Digging Tools for Use on the Beach
When metal detecting on the beach, having the right digging tools is essential for efficiently recovering targets while minimizing damage to the environment. Here’s a list of common digging tools used by beach metal detectorists:
- Sand Scoop:
- A sand scoop is specifically designed for beach detection and is typically made of lightweight, corrosion-resistant materials like aluminum or stainless steel.
- It features a perforated scoop head that allows sand to filter through while capturing targets.
- Sand scoops come in various sizes and shapes, including handheld scoops and long-handled scoops for easier sifting in deeper sand.
- Trowel or Digging Knife:
- A trowel or digging knife is handy for extracting targets buried in compacted or hard-packed sand.
- Look for a trowel with a serrated edge for cutting through roots or tough vegetation.
- Opt for a stainless steel or rust-resistant model to withstand exposure to saltwater.
- Handheld Shovel:
- A small handheld shovel can be useful for digging in areas with dense vegetation or compacted soil near the beach.
- Choose a lightweight yet durable shovel with a comfortable grip for ease of use.
- Long-Handled Shovel:
- For deeper targets or larger digging tasks, a long-handled shovel provides extra leverage and reach.
- Look for a shovel with a sturdy blade and a corrosion-resistant coating to withstand exposure to sand and saltwater.
- Pinpointer:
- While not a digging tool per se, a pinpointer is an essential accessory for beach metal detecting.
- A pinpointer helps locate targets precisely within the hole or sand scoop, reducing the time spent digging and minimizing damage to the surrounding area.
- Choose a waterproof pinpointer model for beach detecting, as it allows you to search in wet sand and shallow water.
- Mesh Bag or Pouch:
- A mesh bag or pouch is useful for carrying your finds and keeping them secure while detecting.
- Look for a bag with drainage holes to prevent sand and water from accumulating, and ensure it has a secure closure to prevent items from falling out.
- Sand Sifter:
- A sand sifter is a specialized tool designed to separate small targets from the sand quickly.
- It typically consists of a wire mesh screen attached to a frame, allowing you to shake out sand and debris while retaining targets.
- Sand sifters are particularly useful for detecting beaches with fine sand where targets may be easily lost.
Having a combination of these digging tools will ensure you’re well-equipped for beach metal detecting, enabling you to recover targets efficiently while minimizing disruption to the beach environment.
Aluminum Sand Sifter
The right Shovel is a must and next to the detector is your best tool. Shovels should have root cutters on the side for ground digs and good footpegs for underwater digs and are very strong and reliable. The shovel should be a least 36 inches long and made of tempered steel.
Recovery Tools should have a padded handle and a double-edge surrogated blade on both sides. It should be able to attach to your belt for easy access. Made of durable steel.
A Plastic or Aluminum Sand Sifter Scoop is a necessary tool with no interference and the long-handle sand scoop to keep your back from the work should be lightweight and telescopic and an easy cleanup tool.
A Pointer is like the one in the left picture and adds a complement or tool to your detector to help you get into smaller places to pinpoint your area exactly and to help locate your target faster with less work. A Pointer that is rugged waterproof and floats. It should have a flashlight and alarm or vibrate or both. Some have scraper or protective point covers.
Hunting for treasures on the beach or in the surf comes with a few obstacles. The most important consideration is the minerals that you find there. Saltwater and the so-called Hot Rocks that you find there are the necessary evils that you must deal with. Saltwater will amplify the normal minerals that you find there causing many land-based detectors to give off false signals. The best unit for the beach is the Pulse Induction Technology (PI) detector, unfortunately, they are a little expensive.
Underwater metal detectors are determined by salt or fresh water and according to how deep you will be diving. This depth rating is different from the depth rating of how deep the alarm signal reads after picking up a target. It will be the driving range of the instrument. In most cases, Pulse Induction(PI) is the better choice for a metal detector. Most under detectors come with waterproof headphones.
They are made to turn on and go and cancel out black sand, and minerals, and eliminate junk targets to get to what you’re looking for. The VLF models have nicer displays and can differentiate from audio target identification capabilities but are better than the PI models but are more sensitive and require more balancing and tweaking.
If you are willing to get a little wet then shallow water treasure hunting with a detector is what you’re looking for. Treasure rolls in and out with the tide all in less than 6 feet of water. Most hunters are on the beach in the sand while the divers are out in deeper water.
You can be in the waist-high water zone finding coins jewelry and watches that are moved around by the tide. You can snorkel or scuba on the bottom or cover the area with the tide out on a knee-deep ocean floor. Try it in a pond, river, or lake too.
Where Can You Use a Metal Detector Legally
I live on the East Coast shoreline where history covers the entire area and hundreds of miles inland too along the Delaware River. It’s where the Revolutionary and Civil Wars were fought and hosted in the most historical part of America.
There is a law on shallow water Metal Detecting in the Florida Gulf Region called Florida’s State Laws of Antiquities that regulates the taking of old valuables from certain state lands and even the coastal waters. It’s up to you to find out if the County and State you are detecting in have laws against Metal Detecting.
You’ll be using the tide to your advantage. Shallow water hunters should always work in the tide area. Arrive at the beach a few hours before low tide working the area as the tide recedes. This is prime time. Do this right up until the tide comes in again.
Experts say the most productive area is the deep water areas where people swim at high tide. They also say that wind and storm line vicinity is where items are sometimes deposited all in the same area. So if you do get a signal, mark that area. It’s most likely there will be more than one item of the same weight that will wash up together by the tide in the surf or in a high tide line around a river or creek.
- Metal detecting laws vary depending on location, so it’s essential to research and understand local regulations before detecting.
- Public beaches and parks are often popular locations for metal detecting, but specific rules may apply, such as obtaining permits or avoiding protected areas.
- Some private properties allow metal detecting with the owner’s permission, while others may have restrictions or prohibit it altogether.
- Cultural heritage sites, including archaeological sites and protected areas, are typically off-limits to metal detecting to preserve historical artifacts and prevent damage to the environment.
- Always respect the rules and regulations of the area you’re detecting in to ensure you’re detecting legally and responsibly.
Metal Detecting in Shallow River Water
Metal detecting in shallow water can be an exciting and rewarding experience, as it opens up the possibility of finding items lost or discarded in aquatic environments. Here are some tips for metal detecting in shallow water:
- Choose the Right Equipment: Use a waterproof metal detector specifically designed for shallow water detection. Ensure that both the detector and headphones are waterproof to avoid damage.
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Metal Detecting on a River Check Local Regulations: Before detecting any body of water, familiarize yourself with local regulations regarding metal detecting, water activities, and any protected areas. Safety First: Be aware of your surroundings and any potential hazards in the water, such as rocks, currents, or marine life. Wear appropriate safety gear, including water shoes or waders if necessary.
- Timing: Plan your detecting sessions during low tide when more of the shallow water area is exposed, making it easier to access and search for targets.
- Search Methodically: Start detecting along the shoreline and gradually work your way into deeper water. Pay attention to areas where people gather, such as swimming areas, docks, or boat ramps, as these are prime locations for lost items.
- Use a Pinpointer: A waterproof pinpointer is invaluable for locating targets underwater with precision, especially in murky or sandy conditions where visibility may be limited.
- Be Gentle: When retrieving targets from underwater, use a gentle scooping or digging motion to avoid stirring up sediment and potentially losing the target.
- Rinse and Dry Equipment: After each detecting session in shallow water, rinse your equipment thoroughly with fresh water to remove any salt or sand deposits. Allow it to dry completely before storing it to prevent corrosion.
By following these tips and exercising caution, you can enjoy a productive and safe metal detecting experience in shallow water environments, potentially uncovering a variety of interesting finds.
The Community Library may be the best place to research an area that may hold historical value and was a popular place at one time. Also, places like Colleges and Historical Societies are reliable. Because the ocean is so vast and a constant source of movement connected to a shoreline, most people would agree that it is the best place to recover valuables and agree that buried treasure exists there, somewhere and the possibilities are endless.
Tidal Rivers and Beaches that were once popular places to go by many people long ago could hold large amounts of treasure, those people may have left behind loads of treasure that are now buried in that space covered by mud and sand in the shallow water under your feet.
Conclusion:
Metal detecting in shallow water offers a unique and rewarding opportunity to discover lost treasures beneath the waves. By equipping yourself with the right gear, understanding local regulations, and prioritizing safety, you can explore beaches, lakeshores, and other aquatic environments responsibly. With careful planning, methodical searching, and the use of specialized tools like waterproof metal detectors and pinpointers, you can uncover a variety of items submerged in shallow waters. Remember to respect the environment, follow any applicable rules and guidelines, and enjoy the adventure of uncovering history beneath the surface.
References:
High Plains Prospector-Metal Detecting in Shallow Water
FAQ’s
Is metal detecting in shallow water legal?
Metal detecting laws vary by location, so it’s crucial to research and abide by local regulations. In many areas, metal detecting in shallow water is permitted, but certain restrictions or permits may apply.
What equipment do I need for metal detecting in shallow water?
You’ll need a waterproof metal detector, waterproof headphones, a waterproof pinpointer, and possibly a sand scoop or digging tool designed for use in water. Ensure all equipment is rated for underwater use to prevent damage.
Where are the best places to metal detect in shallow water?
Popular locations for shallow water metal detecting include beaches, swimming areas, docks, boat ramps, and areas where people gather near the water’s edge. Search along the shoreline and in shallow areas where items are likely to be lost or dropped.
How deep can I metal detect in shallow water?
The depth you can detect will depend on the capabilities of your metal detector and the conditions of the water. Generally, shallow water metal detecting is limited to depths where you can comfortably wade or submerge your detector.
What types of items can I expect to find while metal detecting in shallow water?
Common finds in shallow water include coins, jewelry, keys, watches, and other small items lost by beachgoers or boaters. Additionally, historical artifacts and relics may be uncovered in areas with a rich maritime history.