Top 5 Deep Water Metal Detectors for Lakes, Rivers & Oceans

Underwater treasure hunting is no longer just for professionals. Today, even hobbyists and beginners are diving into rivers, lakes, and oceans with powerful gear. But not all metal detectors are made to go deep.

Some detectors are only water-resistant. Others are fully submersible and built to handle salt, sand, and pressure. If you’re serious about finding coins, relics, or jewelry underwater, you’ll need a deep water metal detector.

Before we dive in, if you're looking for land-based or general-use units, browse our full metal detector collection.

Deep Water Detector Comparison Table

What Makes a Metal Detector Work Underwater?

To work underwater, a detector must have full submersion capability. This is more than just a waterproof coil.

Look for these key features:

• Submersion rating: IP68 or higher. Tells how deep it can go.
• Saltwater stability: Many detectors lose accuracy in saltwater. Multi-frequency or pulse tech helps.
• Waterproof build: Not just the coil, but the control box too.
• Underwater audio: Vibration or waterproof headphones help in low visibility.

Deep water use also adds challenges. Coil drag, visibility, and mineralized sand can interfere with accuracy. That’s why not all waterproof detectors work well in rivers or oceans.

Deep Water Metal Detectors Reviews

Now, let’s review the top-rated deep water metal detectors — ranked from best to beginner.

1. Minelab Manticore: Best Overall Deep Water Performance

Best For: Professional divers and serious hobbyists

Key Specifications:

• Waterproof to 16 ft (IP68)
• Multi-IQ+ Frequencies
• 11” DD Coil
• Weight: 2.9 lbs

This detector uses Multi-IQ+ tech, which boosts signal strength in tough saltwater zones. Its control box and coil are both waterproof. You get 10 search modes, including a Beach mode made for surf and wet sand.

The Manticore has strong EMI resistance, making it stable near power sources or salty shores. Audio can be customized, and its light build helps reduce drag in moving water.

Check the price of Minelab Manticore

2. XP Deus II: Best for Deep Ocean Dives

Best For: Scuba divers and underwater relic hunters

Key Specifications:

• Waterproof to 66 ft (IP68)
• FMF (Fast Multi Frequency)
• 11” FMF Coil
• Ultra-light: ~1.6 lbs

With its 20-meter depth rating, Deus II is built for real diving. It uses wireless tech with zero delay, so targets are heard instantly. The remote, coil, and headphones all connect wirelessly and stay in sync.

Multiple audio modes help in dark or murky water. A special antenna and waterproof housing let it work in deep water without losing signal.

Check the price of XP Deus II

3. Nokta Legend PRO PACK: Best for Versatile Underwater Conditions

Best For: River, lake, and saltwater hunters

Key Specifications:

• Waterproof to 10 ft
• Multi-frequency
• 12"x9" and 6" Coils
• Weight: 3.0 lbs

The Legend handles both salt and fresh water well. It comes with two coils, giving you options for tight spaces or open water. The detector vibrates when it finds a target — a must for underwater use.

With four custom profiles, you can save settings for different water types. Many hobbyists on forums say it performs reliably in silty or brackish conditions.

Check the price of Nokta Legend PRO PACK

4. Nokta Simplex ULTRA: Best Budget Waterproof Detector for Beginners

Best For: Casual users and beginners on a budget

Key Specifications:

• Waterproof to 16 ft
• 15 kHz single frequency
• 11” DD Coil
• Weight: 2.6 lbs

Simplex ULTRA is easy to use with a clean menu. It has vibration, backlight, and flashlight — all great for low visibility.

It’s fully submersible and includes saltwater and beach modes. Reddit users often recommend it as a solid entry-level choice that doesn’t break the bank.

Check the price of Nokta Simplex ULTRA

5. Garrett ACE 300: Entry-Level Water-Resistant Detector

Best For: Creek beds and shallow stream detecting

Key Specifications:

• Submersible coil only
• 8 kHz Frequency
• 7"x10" Coil
• Weight: 2.8 lbs

Only the coil is waterproof. The control box must stay above water. That limits it to shallow spots like creeks and wet soil.

It does offer solid target ID and a pinpoint mode, which helps in muddy terrain. Best for those just starting out in damp areas.

Check the price of Garrett ACE 300

FAQs About Deep Water Metal Detecting

1. Can I use a land detector underwater?

No. Unless it says "fully submersible," it’s not safe to use underwater.

2. What depth rating do I need?

If you dive, pick a unit rated for at least 16 ft. For scuba, go 60 ft+.

3. Is saltwater different from freshwater detecting?

Yes. Saltwater needs better shielding and frequency control. Multi-frequency models help.

4. What’s better: PI or VLF?

Pulse induction (PI) works well in deep saltwater. VLF is more common and better for mixed-use.

5. What gear do I need for underwater use?

You’ll want waterproof headphones, backup power, and a secure grip or harness.

Also read our guide to Submersible Metal Detectors to learn more.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right deep water metal detector means looking beyond basic waterproof claims. It’s about real-world use: how it handles waves, salt, depth, and audio underwater.

Whether you're diving 60 feet or just combing a lake shore, there's a unit built for your level.

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