How to Start Gold Panning: Step-by-Step Beginner Guide (2026)

Skip the junk and start seeing color. My field-tested steps to go from first swirl to first flake.

What You Actually Need

You don't need a truckload of gear. Start with a 14" green pan, a 1/4" classifier, a snuffer bottle, and a few vials.

Stick to public areas where panning is allowed. Check state rules and BLM resources. Avoid claimed ground unless you've got permission.

1. Classify a scoop of gravel through the 1/4" classifier into your pan.

2. Submerge & agitate: underwater, shake side-to-side to settle heavies.

3. Tilt & wash: tip the pan forward; let lighter sands roll off.

4. Repeat: agitate, wash, agitate, wash.

5. Finish: slow down on black sand; micro-tap to walk the gold into the corner.

Jake tip: If your pan keeps floating, tie a paracord leash. Ask me how I learned.

Target inside bends, behind big rocks, and riffle tails—anywhere water slows.

Rinse, tweeze, snuff. A drop of dish soap stops flour from floating.

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