New Hampshire Updated June 2026

Magnet Fishing Laws in New Hampshire

State agency rules, waterway access, state park policy, and what happens when you find something significant.

General Status
Generally Permitted
Managing Agency
New Hampshire Fish and Game Department (NHFG)
(603) 271-3511

State Agency & Regulatory Framework

New Hampshire has no magnet fishing-specific statute. NHFG manages numerous public boat launches and fishing access areas statewide. The Connecticut River is shared with Vermont; the Connecticut River Joint Commissions coordinate conservation and recreation on the watershed. New Hampshire's antiquity laws protect archaeological resources on state land.

State Park Policy

New Hampshire Division of Parks and Recreation has not prohibited magnet fishing. Contact specific parks for site rules.

Waterway Access & Navigability

New Hampshire's navigable waterways include the Connecticut River (western border), Merrimack River, and portions of the Piscataqua and Saco Rivers. Lake Winnipesaukee and numerous smaller lakes provide additional access points.

If You Find a Firearm

Regardless of New Hampshire state law details, the protocol for a firearm find is consistent: do not transport it, call the local non-emergency police line immediately, document the find location, and turn it over to the responding officer. Request a case number. For the full protocol, see: Found a Gun While Magnet Fishing.

Historical Artifact Reporting

Items 100+ years old recovered from public land in New Hampshire may be protected under the Archaeological Resources Protection Act (federal) and New Hampshire state antiquity law. Contact your State Historic Preservation Office before disturbing or retaining any potentially historical find.

New Hampshire SHPO: Division of Historical Resources, (603) 271-3483

Quick Reference

  • Managing Agency: New Hampshire Fish and Game Department (NHFG) — (603) 271-3511
  • General Access Status: Generally Permitted
  • State Parks: New Hampshire Division of Parks and Recreation has not prohi...
  • SHPO: New Hampshire SHPO: Division of Historical Resources, (603) 271-3483
  • Found Firearms: Call non-emergency police, do not transport
  • Federal Waterways: Contact USACE district office for managed sites
⚠️ Always Verify Before You Go Rules at specific waterways can change. Contact the managing agency for any site you haven't fished recently. This page reflects conditions as of June 2026.
Legal Disclaimer: This page provides general information only and does not constitute legal advice. Laws change frequently. Always verify current rules with the relevant agency and consult a licensed attorney for your specific situation.

Key Guides for New Hampshire Magnet Fishers

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Federal Overview

Federal waterway law that applies in every state, including New Hampshire.

Read →
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Found a Gun?

Step-by-step legal protocol for firearm finds.

Read →
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State Parks Rules

State park systems — which allow, which require permits, which prohibit.

Read →