James Kane, a magnet fisher, holds a shiny, four-pound magnetic disk made of a stainless-steel shell housing an alloy of iron, neodymium, and boron. He throws it into a lake in a public park in New York City and slowly pulls it back with a strong synthetic rope. As the magnet moves along the bottom, it stirs up bubbles and suddenly gets stuck on something. Filmed by his partner Barbi Agostini, Kane lifts the catch, revealing a thick iron rod called a sash weight, used to open heavy windows a century ago.
Throughout the afternoon, Kane and Agostini find various items, including a 20-year-old flip phone, a signpost, fishing gear, pliers, bottle caps, batteries, and an iPhone 6. They give the phone to a girl nearby, but she reacts when she smells it. Magnet fishing involves searching unseen depths for treasures while encountering smelly, grimy, and unusual objects. The pair has found guns, ammunition, and even a safe filled with waterlogged cash, making headlines and attracting police attention.
The discovery of the cash leads them to hand it over to the Bureau of Engraving and Printing after it has been processed. Kane and Agostini, both 40 years old, engage in magnet fishing not for riches but as an outdoor activity, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. The hobby gained popularity in 2020, providing a socially distanced and nature-friendly pastime for enthusiasts.
Neodymium magnets, essential for magnet fishing, were developed in the 1980s as affordable and powerful alternatives to traditional magnets. They revolutionized various industries and applications with their strength and efficiency. While magnet fishing has environmental benefits, it also raises concerns about disturbing sediments and potentially releasing pollutants back into the water. Despite the risks, magnet fishers are motivated by the thrill of discovery and the opportunity to clean up waterways.
Before engaging in magnet fishing, it’s crucial to be aware of local regulations and environmental impacts, ensuring the activity is conducted responsibly. Kane and Agostini emphasize safety measures and proper disposal of retrieved items, highlighting the excitement of uncovering mysteries hidden beneath the water’s surface.
