Metal detecting is a great hobby that can lead to some interesting finds, especially in and near water. Whether it is an old horseshoe or a piece of fine jewelry, detecting waterways can produce some fun times. But will hunting here ruin your equipment?
Most metal detectors have waterproof elements to them such as the search coil. However, not all detectors are completely waterproof. If there is a chance your detecting adventure will lead to submerged equipment, a few things should be considered before you embark on your journey.
Partially or Fully Waterproof
For most metal detectors the search coil, shaft, and handle are submersible, however for a detector to be considered completely waterproof the control box and its connectors are the concern. Some models are water resistant and can withstand a few drops of water or even a real quick submerge. Others can be submerged completely underwater for a sustained amount of time. Where one is hunting could determine the type of equipment needed.
Hunting Rain Soaked Ground
A good rain can really soften up the soil making digging targets a lot easier. Hunting after a rain will certainly result in the search coil getting wet, which for most detectors, this is not a problem. A fully waterproof detector is not necessary in these conditions if one is careful where the equipment is placed while digging targets. Watch for puddles and overhead items that could place significant water on your detector. A lot of detectors are water resistant but if you are concerned or perhaps a bit clumsy then a fully waterproof model might be right for you.
Hunting Creeks, Rivers, Ponds, and Lakes
Waterways have always been a great source of targets both worthless and valuable. Hunting the shoreline or beach typically has no need for a waterproof detector. Some of the same concerns as with hunting after rain storms still apply however. For most of us though, it would be considered a wasted trip to not fully explore and detect the actual water way as well. If your quest will take you into the actual water then a waterproof detector is the best bet.
Hunting Beaches
People flock to the beach which results in lots of lost items just waiting to be discovered. Generally when hunting a beach one will stay out of the water. This could lead us to the conclusion that a waterproof detector is not necessary. However, swells, and tides are a great concern when at the beach. With the unpredictability of the ocean only a few steps away, a waterproof detector is the logical choice here. Additionally if your equipment is fully submersible one can head into the surf and hunt for a few relics while experiencing the cool waters of the ocean.
Another thing to consider when hunting the sands of your favorite beach is the type of detector you are bringing along. Single frequency VLF detectors do not perform well in the presence of salt water. This high concentration of minerals will produce a lot of feedback to this type of detector, making it very difficult to use. This applies to hunting in the water, as well as on wet sand on the beach. Some VLF detectors have a ground balance knob that can be adjusted to help combat this, but this is still not ideal. If one is truly going to hunt beaches then a Pulse Induction (PI) detector is the best bet. These are typically more expensive but if you are detecting only saltwater beaches then it is a good investment.
Pinpointers
Pinpointers are almost a necessity when metal detecting. Just like their big brothers, not all of these devices are fully waterproof. These are typically a lot smaller than the full detector and are easily dropped, misplaced, and forgotten about once the thrill of a new target is discovered. It also takes a much smaller puddle to fully submerge one of these vital machines in. For these reasons it is almost always the smart idea to purchase one that is fully waterproof. This also just makes sense when hunting near any water source as some targets are bound to be under the surface.
Pinpointers can also be helpful in finding lost items where the general location of the item is know. Often a ring or neckless is lost while sitting on the beach or fishing from the bank etc. A pinpointer can sometimes find the lost item quickly and can save you some money if this is your only reason for purchasing a detector and might be all you need.
Best Selling Models
| Model | Fully Submersible? | Notes |
| Fisher F22 | NO | Weatherproof |
| Fisher F4 | NO | |
| Fisher F5 | NO | |
| Garrett ACE 250 | NO | |
| Garrett ACE 300 | NO | |
| Garrett ACE 400 | NO | |
| Garrett AT PRO | YES | Up to 10 feet |
| Garrett AT MAX | YES | Up to 10 feet |
| Bounty Hunter TK4 | NO | |
| Bounty Hunter Platinum | NO | |
| Minelab X-Terra 705 | NO | |
| Minelab Equinox | YES | Up to 10 feet |
| Nokta Simplex | YES | Up to 10 feet |
Legal Considerations
Metal detecting is not legal in certain areas, sometimes digging is the issue as it is not allowed in some public areas. A good rule of thumb to remember anytime you embark on a metal detecting session is to consider PAP.
P- Permission
If you are going to be hunting on private property be sure and ask permission from the landowner before you begin. Inform them that you will fill in any holes dug and show them the artifacts you recover if they want to see them. Some landowners will claim rights to whatever you find on their property. Sometimes you can negotiate a split on value of found items, and some will not care at all. Promise to remove any trash finds, and follow through with your promises. Permission should be granted to traverse private land to get to your hunting spot even if you are just passing through. Also consider the legality of who owns the waterway if anyone.
A- Allowed
You should always consider if metal detecting is allowed at all in the area you will be hunting. Some national parks and monuments do not allow digging on site, which would severely limit your recovery success. Ignorance of a law is not an excuse and getting arrested would really put a damper on your experience. Additionally in some areas, it is a felony! Always check federal, state, and local laws and ordinances before you begin. Call if you are unsure, better to be safe than sorry
P – Permit
Some local and state owned areas and parks will allow for metal detecting to be done, but require a permit be obtained. Generally these permits are very inexpensive.
Final Thoughts
Metal detecting in and near water is a great place to discover some really cool finds. Just remember to check your equipment before your hunt begins. A fully submersible detector is more expensive but obviously more versatile. If budget is a concern and you can not afford a waterproof machine consider renting one when going to waterways. If you are looking to purchase one be careful of language used by retailers and manufacturers. Regularly one will see a description with the term “submersible” in the title. However, often they are referring to the search coil and not the control box. Get a waterproof pinpointer as well, many bundles offered by companies will include this. Have fun and stay safe!