If you want to become truly successful at gold prospecting or gold nugget prospecting, the first thing to realize is that good research can make your job out in the field a lot easier.

Widespread internet availability today makes your research a whole lot easier and there is a great deal of information out there that you can search for. Another good resource of information is the local library - look for mining and related info for the area where you plan to go gold prospecting. Another aspect not to overlook is research via old books on the subject, or even the diaries of old gold miners if you can find these.

All of these avenues will eventually turn up good facts for you and likely some awesome information that will greatly increase your chances of finding a spot where you can dig, suction, or pan worthwhile deposits of gold that will be worth your time and efforts.

What else can you do?

Try finding old newspapers, old bulletins and geological books about mining, especially upon the subject matter of gold. Geological maps can also help you in your search and you should be able able to find these too, via your local state university, another option. There is an old saying which goes along the lines of, To find gold, go where gold has already been found.

So, try and find out where the placer workings were located, and try to find spots that others might have overlooked. Also contact governmental agencies in the area where you intend to prospect as all these avenues will assist you in your such to one degree or another.

Also contact any geology and prospecting clubs or associations in the area where you intend to start prospecting and dont be afraid to ask of those members questions relevant to the subject, remember, most people like to talk about subjects which they have a passion for and sometimes depending on the circumstances, they may give you some really good pointers on good places to prospect for gold.

Remember to always make certain in advance that you have all the required permits and land owner permissions for the area where you intend to start your gold prospecting. Dont be surprised if a landowner is very annoyed with you if you don't seek this permission first. It is polite and common courtesy to ask first. Again, preparation is key. Driving long distances only to find out the land status does not permit gold prospecting can be very disheartening.

If you do your research in advance, most of these kinds of problems can be avoided, adding to your overall enjoyment while prospecting for gold nuggets out on the gold trail.

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