22 years of creek-side wisdom, honest gear reviews, and field-tested techniques. No fluff—just what works.
Discover the best metal detectors for finding gold nuggets under $1,000. Jake Lawson reviews the Minelab Gold Monster 1000, Fisher Gold Bug 2, Garrett AT Gold, and more with honest pros, cons, and buying advice.
Staring out the window waiting for spring thaw? Here's how I set up an indoor prospecting station with a recirculating sluice and paydirt to stay sharp all winter.
You found something shiny in your pan. But is it gold? Here are 5 tests I use in the field and at home to know for sure.
Every year I get asked what detector to buy for gold nuggets. After testing dozens of machines in real goldfields, here's my breakdown of PI vs VLF.
That black sand concentrate is full of gold you can't see. Here are three proven methods to separate the gold from magnetic and non-magnetic sands.
After 22 years of running sluices, I've learned that proper setup makes the difference between frustration and full vials. Here's everything you need to know.
Which gold pan material is best? Jake Lawson compares plastic, steel, and aluminum pans to help you choose the right one for your prospecting style.
Discover the best locations and techniques for winter gold prospecting. Jake Lawson shares cold-weather tips from 22 years of experience.
Jake Lawson's honest guide to the best gold panning starter kits for 2026. Find out which kits are worth your money and which ones to avoid.
Your complete guide to the 2026 gold prospecting season. Jake Lawson covers new regulations, gear releases, and the best destinations for finding gold this year.
I've cracked, dropped, and carried more pans than I can count. These five are worth your money.
Set your sluice wrong and you'll lose gold. Here's my quick field checklist to lock it in.
Skip the junk and start seeing color. My field-tested steps to go from first swirl to first flake.
I've hand-picked my favorite prospecting bundles for beginners and pros alike.
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