Do I need a permit for these spots?

Most of the public parks and parkway areas along the Kern River don't require a special permit just to magnet fish. That said, rules can vary by location, so it's always a good idea to double-check with Bakersfield Parks and Recreation or the Kern River Parkway Foundation before you head out, especially if you're new to a spot. A quick phone call or website check can save you a headache and keeps things on the up and up.

What can I find magnet fishing in Bakersfield?

Bakersfield has a seriously layered history, so the finds can be really interesting. The Kern River corridor has over 150 years of city use behind it, with ties to oil production, agriculture, and railroads, so old tools, hardware, and industrial bits aren't out of the question. You'll also turn up the usual urban stuff like bike frames, fishing weights, hooks, and keys, especially around busy spots like the Lake Ming boat ramp and the Park at Riverwalk bridges. If you pull up some rusty junk nobody wants, do everyone a favor and pack it out.

Is magnet fishing legal in Bakersfield?

Magnet fishing in Bakersfield's public waterways is generally fine, but you'll want to check the specific rules for wherever you're heading. City parks along the Kern River are managed by Bakersfield Parks and Recreation, while parkway areas fall under the Kern River Parkway Foundation, so it's worth a quick call or visit to their websites to confirm. Private property is always off-limits, so stick to the public parks and preserves. When in doubt, just ask a park staff member before you toss your magnet in.

Top Bakersfield Magnet Fishing Spots for Beginners

So picture this. It's a warm October morning, I'm standing on the bank of the Kern River at Hart Park, I give my magnet a good swing out toward a bend in the river, and CLANK. I reel it in and there's this chunky old wrench coated in river silt just hanging there. I did a little fist pump that absolutely no one witnessed. That's the thing about Bakersfield, y'all. The Kern River has been running through this city for way longer than anyone alive can remember, the Yokut people lived along its delta channels for centuries, and then European settlers, oil workers, railroad crews, and generations of weekend picnickers all showed up and started dropping stuff in the water. That history is just sitting down there on the riverbed waiting for you.

If you're brand new to this whole thing, here's the quick rundown. Magnet fishing is basically fishing, except instead of a hook and a worm, you tie a strong neodymium magnet to a rope, throw it into a body of water, and drag it along the bottom to see what ferrous metal sticks to it. People find everything from old coins and tools to knives, keys, bolts, bike parts, and the occasional thing that makes you stop and stare for a minute. It's part treasure hunt, part outdoor activity, and honestly kind of addictive once you pull up your first find.

Bakersfield is a genuinely solid city for this hobby. The Kern River transitions from a fast Sierra Nevada canyon river into a slow, meandering, depositional river right here in town, which is a fancy way of saying heavy stuff sinks and stays at the bends. The city has built a whole parkway system of parks, lakes, and trails along the river, so access is pretty easy. I've put together six spots worth checking out, from a historic boat launch on Lake Ming to a preserve with a name referencing an old river ferry crossing that has me very curious about what might be down there.

Check out our How to Start Magnet Fishing: A Beginner’s Guide for all the newbie tips!

Top Magnet Fishing Spots in Los Angeles

Here are six killer spots to try magnet fishing in LA. I’ve picked places that are beginner-friendly, accessible, and ripe for cool finds. Always respect private property and local laws—nobody wants a soggy ticket!

Chattahoochee River (Paces Mill Unit)

Why It's Great: Hart Memorial Park has been a public recreational hub since it was built between 1921 and 1936, which means over a hundred years of people walking, fishing, picnicking, and inevitably dropping things near and into the water. The Kern River meanders through this section at near base level, and those river bends are exactly where heavy materials settle and accumulate over time. At 370 acres, this is the oldest section of the Kern River County Park, named after County Supervisor John Hart, and the history here just adds to the potential.

Accessibility: The park sits on Alfred Harrell Highway east of Fairfax Road and is a public park with established paths and parking. It's very family-friendly and easy to get to.

Pro Tip: Focus your casts at the outside edges of river bends. That's where the current slows and heavy stuff drops. A longer rope, around 50 to 65 feet, gives you more range to work those bend pockets from the bank.

Nearby Perks: There are picnic facilities in the park, so this is a great full-day family trip. Pack a lunch, let the kids run around, and take turns throwing the magnet.

Stone Mountain Lake (East Beach Area)

Why It’s Great: This iconic lake in the heart of LA is a chill spot for magnet fishing. You might snag fishing lures, old coins, or random urban junk from its depths.
Accessibility: Plenty of parking around Echo Park, with easy access to the lake’s edges. Shallow waters make it ideal for kids to watch the action.
Pro Tip: Try near the pedal boat docks—people drop stuff there all the time. Just don’t spook the ducks—they’re the real bosses here!
Nearby Perks: Food trucks and picnic areas nearby. Perfect for a post-fishing taco break.

Atlanta BeltLine (Eastside Trail Water Features)

Why It’s Great: These historic man-made canals are a hidden gem for magnet fishing. The calm, narrow waters hide everything from lost jewelry to old boat parts.
Accessibility: Street parking on Dell Avenue, with easy access to canal bridges. Stick to public walkways to avoid private property.
Pro Tip: Go early to beat the tourist crowds—sunrise sessions are peaceful and productive.
Nearby Perks: Stroll to Venice Beach for snacks or ice cream after.

Sweetwater Creek (Near the Mill Ruins)

Why It’s Great: This urban creek flows through West LA and is a hotspot for metal treasures like tools, bike frames, or even skateboard parts.
Accessibility: Park near the bike path entrances (like at Inglewood Blvd). The flat concrete banks are beginner-friendly, but watch for fast-moving water after rain.
Pro Tip: Focus on areas near storm drains—stuff gets washed down during storms. Wear sturdy shoes; it can get slippery!
Nearby Perks: Nearby Culver City parks are great for a family picnic.

Piedmont Park (Lake Clara Meer)

Why It’s Great: This peaceful lake in the San Fernando Valley is perfect for families. Expect fishing gear, coins, or maybe even old keys from park-goers.
Accessibility: Tons of free parking and easy lake access via paved paths. Shallow edges are safe for kids to join in.
Pro Tip: Try near the fishing pier—people drop stuff there like it’s their job. Bring sunscreen; the Valley sun is no joke!
Nearby Perks: BBQ grills and playgrounds make this a full-day adventure spot.

Yellow River (Near Stone Mountain)

Why It’s Great: This lesser-known spot has a lake and spillway where metal treasures pile up. You might find tools, car parts, or even vintage fishing weights.
Accessibility: Free parking at the recreation area, with easy trails to the water. Great for beginners but deeper in spots, so use a strong magnet.
Pro Tip: Check the spillway after rain—new stuff washes in. Just don’t get too close to fast-moving water!
Nearby Perks: Hiking trails and picnic areas for a full outdoor day.

Essential Tips for Magnet Fishing in Los Angeles

Magnet fishing in LA is a blast, but let’s keep it safe and fun. Here’s what I’ve learned from my own adventures:

Safety First: Wear gloves (rusty finds are common), use a sturdy rope, and bring a buddy—especially in busy spots like the LA River.
Local Rules: Most public waters in LA are fair game, but check with the city or parks department for permits, especially at places like Hansen Dam. Avoid private docks at Venice Canals.
What to Expect: Urban waters mean lots of metal—bikes, tools, maybe even a rogue shopping cart (true story: I once hauled one out and felt like a superhero). Watch for pollution in creeks.
Family Fun: Make it a game—who finds the weirdest item? Pack snacks and hit a park after for a full day out.
Eco Tip: Haul out what you find and recycle. Let’s keep LA’s waters clean for everyone!
Funny Bit: If you snag a shopping cart, don’t try to ride it home (kidding—report it if it looks stolen!).

Recommended Gear for LA Adventures

I’ve tested a ton of gear, and for LA’s mix of lakes, rivers, and canals, you need stuff that’s tough but budget-friendly.

These are all beginner-friendly and built to last. High ratings mean they’re crowd-tested, so you’re not wasting cash.

Conclusion

Los Angeles is a magnet fishing playground, from the funky Venice Canals to the chill vibes of Lake Balboa. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, these spots are perfect for snagging some urban treasures. Grab your gear, hit the water, and who knows—you might pull up a piece of LA history! Share your hauls in the comments or tag us on socials.

Need gear to get started? Check out our guides to the best magnet fishing kits for beginners, top-rated magnets for every budget, and essential accessories that'll make your trips way more fun—I've tested everything so you don't have to!

Do I need a permit for these spots?
Most of the public parks and parkway areas along the Kern River don't require a special permit just to magnet fish. That said, rules can vary by location, so it's always a good idea to double-check with Bakersfield Parks and Recreation or the Kern River Parkway Foundation before you head out, especially if you're new to a spot. A quick phone call or website check can save you a headache and keeps things on the up and up.
What can I find magnet fishing in Bakersfield?
Bakersfield has a seriously layered history, so the finds can be really interesting. The Kern River corridor has over 150 years of city use behind it, with ties to oil production, agriculture, and railroads, so old tools, hardware, and industrial bits aren't out of the question. You'll also turn up the usual urban stuff like bike frames, fishing weights, hooks, and keys, especially around busy spots like the Lake Ming boat ramp and the Park at Riverwalk bridges. If you pull up some rusty junk nobody wants, do everyone a favor and pack it out.
Is magnet fishing legal in Bakersfield?
Magnet fishing in Bakersfield's public waterways is generally fine, but you'll want to check the specific rules for wherever you're heading. City parks along the Kern River are managed by Bakersfield Parks and Recreation, while parkway areas fall under the Kern River Parkway Foundation, so it's worth a quick call or visit to their websites to confirm. Private property is always off-limits, so stick to the public parks and preserves. When in doubt, just ask a park staff member before you toss your magnet in.