scuba diving metal detecting

I finally did it! My first underwater metal detecting expedition! The anticipation was killer. I chose a calm, shallow spot near the old pier, hoping for some interesting finds. My heart pounded as I submerged, the underwater world opening up before me. The thrill of the hunt began immediately. The silence, broken only by my own breathing and the gentle lapping of waves, was truly mesmerizing. I felt a strange mix of excitement and nervousness.

Choosing the Right Gear

Selecting the right equipment for my underwater metal detecting adventure was crucial. I spent weeks researching and comparing different models, reading countless online reviews, and even consulting with experienced underwater treasure hunters at my local dive shop. Let me tell you, the choices are overwhelming! First, the detector itself⁚ I opted for the Garrett ATX, known for its waterproof capabilities and impressive depth detection. It wasn’t cheap, but the investment felt worthwhile considering the potential rewards. Then came the scuba gear. I already owned a basic set, but I upgraded my BCD (Buoyancy Compensator Device) to a model with more lift capacity, crucial for carrying the added weight of the detector and any potential finds. My old mask leaked slightly, so I treated myself to a new, high-quality mask with a comfortable fit. I also invested in a powerful underwater flashlight; visibility can be surprisingly limited even in clear water, and I wanted to be able to inspect my finds properly. Choosing the right gloves was important too. I needed something durable, yet dexterous enough to handle the detector controls and carefully retrieve any discovered artifacts. I opted for heavy-duty neoprene gloves, providing both protection and sufficient dexterity. Finally, I added a sturdy waterproof underwater housing for my GoPro camera. I knew I wanted to document the entire experience, capturing the thrill of the hunt and showcasing my discoveries. This whole process took significantly longer than I initially anticipated, but I felt much more confident and prepared knowing I had the best possible equipment for my underwater metal detecting quest. The extra investment in quality gear proved invaluable during my dive, ensuring a smooth and successful underwater metal detecting adventure.

The Initial Dive

The moment arrived. I carefully adjusted my gear, double-checking everything was securely fastened. My heart pounded with a mixture of excitement and nerves. I took a deep breath, entered the water, and began my descent. The transition from the bright sunlight to the underwater world was dramatic. The muffled sounds of the surface world faded, replaced by the gentle hum of my metal detector and the rhythmic whoosh of my own breathing. Initially, I felt a bit clumsy, the added weight of the detector and the unfamiliar sensation of navigating underwater with the equipment requiring some adjustment. I carefully scanned the seabed, the detector’s coil sweeping back and forth across the sand. The initial sweeps yielded nothing but sand and small pebbles. A wave of mild disappointment washed over me, but I reminded myself to remain patient. The thrill of the hunt, however, kept me going. I continued my methodical sweep, focusing on maintaining a steady pace and consistent coil movement. The water was surprisingly clear, allowing me to see several feet in front of me. I spotted a few interesting-looking rocks, but the detector remained silent; Then, after what felt like an eternity, a sharp, distinct tone pierced the silence; My heart leaped! I carefully lowered myself to the seabed, using my hands to brush away the sand and reveal the object emitting the signal. It was a small, tarnished silver locket, partially buried beneath the sand. The feeling of unearthing this hidden treasure was exhilarating! I carefully retrieved the locket, placing it in a small waterproof bag I had secured to my BCD. This initial find fueled my enthusiasm, re-energizing my resolve to explore further. The initial dive was far more challenging than I anticipated, a testament to the need for proper training and preparation. But the thrill of that first discovery made it all worthwhile.

My First Significant Find

After hours of searching, my metal detector emitted a long, low tone – a signal indicating something potentially large and metallic was nearby. My heart quickened. I carefully scanned the area, pinpointing the source of the signal. It was buried deep in the sand, requiring considerable effort to excavate. Using my small trowel, I painstakingly cleared away the sand, revealing a glint of metal. With bated breath, I unearthed a beautiful, antique brass telescope. It was surprisingly well-preserved, considering its time spent submerged. The brass was tarnished, but the intricate details of the telescope’s construction were still clearly visible; I gently cleaned off some of the sand and sediment, marveling at its craftsmanship. It felt incredibly heavy, a testament to its age and quality. The feeling of holding this piece of history in my hands was surreal. It wasn’t just a metal object; it was a window into the past, a silent storyteller whispering tales of bygone eras. I carefully secured the telescope in a larger waterproof bag, ensuring it was well-protected. This find far exceeded my expectations. It was far more significant than the small locket from my first discovery. The sheer size and historical significance of the telescope made it a truly remarkable find. The weight of it in my bag reminded me constantly of my discovery as I continued my search. The thrill of this discovery invigorated me, propelling me to explore even further, eager to uncover what other secrets lay hidden beneath the waves. The adrenaline rush was immense; this was the moment I’d been hoping for since I started this hobby.

Dealing with the Unexpected

During my dive, I encountered several unexpected challenges. Firstly, the current picked up unexpectedly, making it difficult to maintain a stable position while operating my metal detector. I had to adjust my buoyancy compensator frequently to counteract the pull of the current, which was quite tiring. Secondly, visibility decreased dramatically at one point due to a sudden surge of silt stirred up by an unseen fish. I momentarily lost my bearings and had to rely on my compass and depth gauge to navigate back to my starting point. It was a disorienting experience, and I felt a surge of panic, but I quickly regained my composure, reminding myself of my training. Thirdly, I encountered a large, tangled mass of fishing line and netting. It was a real hazard, and I carefully avoided it, realizing the potential for entanglement. I also had a minor equipment malfunction; my waterproof housing for my underwater camera sprung a small leak. Luckily, I had a spare camera in my dive bag, but I had to quickly transfer my memory card and change cameras. This unexpected repair cost me valuable time. The most unnerving incident involved a sudden, loud noise that sounded like something large brushing against my tank. My heart leaped into my throat, and I froze, unsure what it could be. After a few tense moments, the noise subsided, and I cautiously continued my search. Later, I realized it was likely a large fish or marine mammal. Despite these unexpected events, I remained calm and adaptable, prioritizing safety and problem-solving throughout the dive. The experience taught me the importance of preparedness and the need to anticipate potential challenges in underwater metal detecting.

Lessons Learned and Future Plans

My first underwater metal detecting adventure was incredibly rewarding, but it also highlighted areas for improvement. Firstly, I learned the crucial importance of proper buoyancy control in current conditions. Next time, I’ll practice more in stronger currents before attempting a deeper dive. Secondly, I need to invest in a more robust waterproof housing for my camera. The small leak I experienced was a minor inconvenience, but it could have been much worse. Thirdly, I realized the value of having a dive buddy. While I felt confident in my abilities, having someone else present would have provided an extra layer of safety and support, particularly during the moments of disorientation and the unexpected loud noise. For future dives, I’ll definitely be recruiting a friend with similar interests. I also need to better research my target locations. Knowing more about the history of the area, potential hazards, and typical finds would greatly enhance my future hunts. In terms of equipment, I’ll explore different metal detector models, perhaps one with better sensitivity and discrimination capabilities. I’m also considering investing in a more powerful underwater light to improve visibility in murky conditions. Finally, I plan to expand my search areas. I discovered a fascinating old shipwreck chart online, and I’m eager to explore that location with my improved skills and equipment. Overall, my inaugural underwater metal detecting experience was a phenomenal learning curve. I’m excited to refine my techniques, upgrade my gear, and embark on even more thrilling underwater adventures.