River Detecting Tips

[goldfinder999]

Hi all, decided to create a new thread on this subject. Basically looking to get into a bit of river detecting with the AT pro when I get it back; river a good bit higher than earlier this year when I had no machine (of course), but due to the fact that there probably wont be another 'drought' for a year, deciding to plough on with it if I can.
First off, I'm a fisherman so know this stretch well and I have the relevant gear in terms of a self-inflating lifejacket, a wading staff and waders. What I really want to ask is what would you recommend as a digging implement for a rocky, stony bed? I've seen those metal scoops used by many but I know I'd have my heart broken trying to use that among rocks and stones. Is it a matter of just stooping down and searching for the target blindly with a trowel and the pinpointer? Any other tips that anyone can give? I have permission for both sides of the bank, etc, all that side of things is sorted.
Thanks in advance.

[RobG]

I love detecting shallow rivers. Just a simple thing - detect against the current so that when you dig in the river bed the current carries the silt away from the hole. If you stand upstream every time you move you will send a cloud across the hole and be blind until it clears. Beware of leeches if you go ferreting about in the river bed. I don't wear gloves because visibility is compromised by the running water and I rely on feel to an extent. Sometimes you might find you have picked up a little friend when you take your hand out of the water. Shake them off before they get latched on. Finally, look for areas where stones have accumulated. That is where the current dumps stuff. Do everything but pay particular attention to shingle banks even they are under water. Even more finally, once you've cleared an area, give it 6 months and go back. Rivers are the gift that keeps on giving. I have on particular shingle bank where I hoover up Roman coins 2 or three tomes a year. The bank is only about 12 feet long but it gives me 5 or 6 coins every time I do it. Def finished now!

[goldfinder999]

Thanks Rob, much appreciated. My river at the moment is approx 4-5ft high

[RobG]

In that case, forget everything I said! Actually, don't forget about the leeches.

[Beachpete]

I'd definitely advise using a sand scoop so you can wash all the silt away without losing your find. If you have a normal shovel it'll be a very frustrating process. Also beware of broken glass, it's everywhere.

[Saffron]

<cut>
Sometimes you might find you have picked up a little friend when you take your hand out of the water. Shake them off before they get latched on.
<cut>

Two years ago I picked up a crayfish! ... Trust me he was not very friendly

Evan

[Jamesey1981]

<cut>
Sometimes you might find you have picked up a little friend when you take your hand out of the water. Shake them off before they get latched on.
<cut>

Two years ago I picked up a crayfish! ... Trust me he was not very friendly

Evan

They're tasty though, I have no problem being attacked by tasty things that are smaller than me...

[Saffron]

<cut>
Sometimes you might find you have picked up a little friend when you take your hand out of the water. Shake them off before they get latched on.
<cut>

Two years ago I picked up a crayfish! ... Trust me he was not very friendly

Evan

They're tasty though, I have no problem being attacked by tasty things that are smaller than me...

I am allergic to fish and seafood ... so I assume crayfish too ....
It would also have required several (and encountering one was enough for me) to make even a small snack.

Evan

[tigerchips]

<cut>
Sometimes you might find you have picked up a little friend when you take your hand out of the water. Shake them off before they get latched on.
<cut>

Two years ago I picked up a crayfish! ... Trust me he was not very friendly

Evan

They're tasty though, I have no problem being attacked by tasty things that are smaller than me...

I won't ask which part it bit first.