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Best Places to Magnet Fish in Louisiana

Top Places and Locations to Explore

Louisiana is a hotbed for magnet fishing, with bountiful locations like Lake Pontchartrain and Red River that teem with hidden treasures. The state's waterways, rich in artifacts, beckon magnet fishing enthusiasts. However, remember that it's important to respect the law while indulging your passion. There are rules about removing historically significant items over 100 years old from these water bodies. Familiarizing yourself with local laws and obtaining necessary permits can save you from hassles later on. Now, let's dive deeper into this fascinating world of magnet fishing in Louisiana.


One popular spot for magnet fishing in Louisiana is Lake Pontchartrain, known for yielding antique coins, tools, and weapons. Another popular location is the Red River, which often produces old bottles, tools, and railroad spikes. Always ensure you have the necessary permits and follow local regulations when magnet fishing in public waterways.


Lake Pontchartrain

Lake Pontchartrain

Louisiana Magnet Fishing Spots

Lake Pontchartrain

Lake Pontchartrain stands as one of the most popular magnet fishing spots in the state. With a history dating back centuries, this expansive lake has yielded a diverse array of treasures to eager magnet fishers. From antique coins and weapons to mesmerizing trinkets, Lake Pontchartrain offers a compelling magnet fishing experience that has captured the imagination of many enthusiasts.

Red River

The Red River, renowned for its historical significance, serves as another enticing location for magnet fishing. Its rich bounty includes old bottles, tools, and railroad spikes - relics offering a tantalizing glimpse into the past. Each find is a piece of history waiting to be discovered, adding a layer of intrigue to every outing on this storied river.

Bayou St. John

Bayou St. John, with its picturesque charm, presents opportunities for enthusiasts to uncover antique keys, coins, and jewelry—a testament to its historical significance and allure for those seeking to unearth hidden gems from bygone eras.

False River

False River, with its tranquil waters and scenic surroundings, has proven itself as a hotspot for avid magnet fishers. Through exploration of its depths, various artifacts such as old fishing lures, tools, and coins have been unearthed, creating an enticing draw for those seeking engaging and rewarding experiences.

Toledo Bend Reservoir

Toledo Bend Reservoir has carved out a prominent place in the magnet fishing community, attracting enthusiasts with its promise of old fishing lures, tools, and coins—each discovery adding depth to the reservoir's appeal as a magnet fishing haven.

Cane River

Cane River offers the chance to discover intriguing treasures such as old bottles, coins, and tools—a showcase of the rich history that lies beneath its serene waters.

Atchafalaya Basin

The Atchafalaya Basin captivates with its vast expanse and potential for uncovering remnants of the past. From old tools to railroad spikes and coins, each find tells a compelling story of exploration amidst nature's idyllic setting.

Lake Charles

This large lake in southwest Louisiana is a popular spot for boating and fishing, but it's also a great location for magnet fishing. The lake is known to produce a variety of interesting finds, including old coins, fishing lures, and tools, which reader David D'Antoni can attest to along with knives and scrap iron. David also says the seawall at the civic center is a great place to magnet fish as well.

Tchefuncte River

This scenic river on the north shore of Lake Pontchartrain is a great spot for magnet fishing due to its clear water and diverse wildlife. The river is known to yield a variety of interesting items, including old bottles, coins, and tools.

Lake Bruin

Located in northeast Louisiana, Lake Bruin is a prime spot for magnet fishing due to its size and popularity. The lake is known to produce a variety of interesting finds, including old coins, tools, and fishing lures.

Louisiana Magnet Fishing Laws & Regulations


Magnet fishing, like any outdoor activity, comes with a set of rules and regulations, especially when it involves public waterways and historical artifacts. In Louisiana, magnet fishing is generally allowed in public waterways, but it's crucial to understand and adhere to the legal guidelines to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. The laws are in place not only to protect historical artifacts but also to maintain the integrity of the environment.


Protection of Historical Artifacts

When engaging in magnet fishing in Louisiana, it’s important to note that state laws protect historical artifacts over 100 years old from disturbance. This means that if you come across such artifacts while magnet fishing, it is best to leave them undisturbed and report their discovery to the appropriate authorities. By doing so, you become a steward of history, preserving valuable items for future generations to appreciate and study.


Imagine stumbling upon a piece of history submerged beneath the water—a relic from early settlers or indigenous communities. By respecting the laws protecting these artifacts, you contribute to safeguarding an important part of Louisiana's heritage.


While public waterways generally allow magnet fishing, it’s crucial to obtain necessary permits for private areas. Some privately owned bodies of water may have restrictions or specific guidelines for engaging in activities such as magnet fishing. Always seek permission from landowners before magnet fishing on private property to ensure legal compliance and respect for private ownership.


Have you ever considered the historical significance of the items that could potentially be found while magnet fishing? Each discovery has the potential to provide valuable insight into the past, making it essential to handle these finds with care and consideration for preservation.


Understanding and following these laws and regulations not only ensures legal compliance but also contributes to the preservation of Louisiana's historical heritage for future generations to appreciate and learn from.


Be sure to read our post on  What to Do If You Find a Gun Magnet Fishing  for guidance on legal, safety, and ethical implications.

Here are some magnet fishing finds in Louisiana.

A reader told us they have found knives, scrap iron, and a lot of lures at the Lake Charles Civic Center seawall.


Louisiana serves as an exceptional backdrop for the magnet fishing community, presenting a variety of locations each with its unique historical significance and potential for discovery. Whether you're exploring the expansive Lake Pontchartrain, delving into the rich past of the Red River, or navigating the tranquil waters of Bayou St. John and False River, your expeditions are bound to be rich with historical artifacts and everyday treasures. Likewise, the Toledo Bend Reservoir, Cane River, and the vast Atchafalaya Basin stand as testaments to the diverse and enriching experiences awaiting magnet fishing aficionados.


While Lake Pontchartrain offers a historical array of coins, tools, and even weapons, the Red River invites enthusiasts to uncover bottles, tools, and relics of the past. Bayou St. John and False River promise antique keys, jewelry, and intriguing lures, whereas the Toledo Bend Reservoir, Cane River, and the Atchafalaya Basin continue to reveal their secrets in the form of bottles, old coins, and miscellaneous tools.


Beyond the tangible treasures, these locations encapsulate the spirit of adventure and discovery inherent in magnet fishing. Each find, from everyday objects to unexpected rarities, contributes to the narrative of Louisiana's rich history and cultural heritage. Furthermore, the activity not only fosters a sense of curiosity and exploration but also underlines the importance of environmental stewardship and historical preservation.


Remarkable finds, such as an RPG round in southern Louisiana, not only add a layer of excitement but also highlight the importance of safety and environmental consciousness within the magnet fishing community. These discoveries pave the way for initiatives like the Clean Stream Movement, illustrating how magnet fishing can transcend a hobby to become a vehicle for positive environmental impact and historical enlightenment.


As we conclude, let's reflect on the multifaceted nature of magnet fishing in Louisiana. It's a journey through time, an engagement with nature, and a commitment to environmental conservation. Louisiana's waterways are not just conduits for historical relics; they are channels that connect us to our past, inspire our present, and encourage a cleaner, more informed future. So, as you cast your magnet into the serene waters of Louisiana, remember that you're partaking in a hobby that's as enriching as it is exhilarating.


Checkout our reviewed selection of magnet fishing gear to get outfitted for your next trip, or our guides on the  best magnets  and  best magnet fishing kits  to make your adventure one to remember. Also take a look at the Found Treasure page to see some of the interesting magnet fishing finds across the country. Remember  safety first  and to properly  dispose  of what you don't keep.

Magnet fishing clubs in Louisiana

Club Name Description Club Website
Louisiana Magnet Fishing Public Facebook group serving the entire state. Shares finds, locations, and promotes responsible magnet fishing practices.

Louisiana Magnet Fishing

Do you know of a Magnet Fishing club or group in Louisiana not listed here? Please share with us to keep this list up to date.

  • Is magnet fishing legal in Louisiana?

    Yes, magnet fishing is legal in Louisiana, but you need to obtain permission from property owners if you want to magnet fish in private areas. Additionally, there may be restrictions on magnet fishing in certain public areas, such as state parks or wildlife reserves, so it's always a good idea to check with local authorities before you start.

  • What kind of magnets are best for magnet fishing in Louisiana?

    Neodymium magnets are the most commonly used magnets for magnet fishing, as they are strong enough to pick up heavy items such as metal tools, coins, and even bicycles. It's important to use caution when handling neodymium magnets, as they can be very powerful and may cause injury if they snap together. See our product reviews to find the one right for you.

  • What kind of items can I expect to find while magnet fishing in Louisiana?

    The items you can find while magnet fishing in Louisiana can vary greatly depending on the location you choose. Some of the most commonly found items include old coins, fishing lures, tools, and railroad spikes. You may also find more unusual items, such as firearms, bicycles, and even vehicles that have been submerged in the water. It's important to note that if you find any items that you suspect may be related to a crime, you should contact local law enforcement immediately.

Also check out these nearby states Florida , Mississippi , Arkansas , Texas , Alabama , Mississippi.

Author: Will Flaiz

Discover the world's hidden treasures through magnet fishing! We're calling all magnet fishing enthusiasts to share their favorite locations for this exciting hobby.


Whether it's a serene river, a bustling city canal, or a secret spot only you know about, your recommendations can help fellow adventurers find their next great find. Share your top magnet fishing locations with us and let's explore the depths together. Your insights could reveal new and exciting places for others to enjoy.


Join our community and let's uncover the hidden gems that lie beneath the water's surface.


Happy exploring!

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