The Mississippi River is an iconic sight in the United States with its expansive curves, winding passages, and bountiful fish. And while certainly picturesque, few realize that it’s also home to the mysterious Mississippi River pearl. These pearls can be found in the skulls of certain fish species and are coveted for their stunning beauty, which is why many amateur and professional treasure hunters flock to the waters of the Mississippi. But how can one locate these shimmering pearls without getting lost? In this article, we’ll explore the process of finding Mississippi River pearls and provide valuable insights, tips, and advice from expert treasure hunters.
Before you can begin your search, a bit of background preparation is essential. Start by learning to identify the fish, especially the ones that are most likely to contain a pearl. Typically, these species will be sturgeon, catfish, muskellunge, or paddlefish. In addition, there is a chance of finding Mississippi River pearls in the shells of snapping turtles. This may require a permit, so be sure to check local fishing regulations before heading out for your own pearl-seeking adventures.
Once you’re comfortable with the identification of the fish species, you’ll need to figure out the best tactics for catching them. After all, if you don’t catch the fish, you won’t have the opportunity to search for pearls. It’s important to take the time to ensure that the gear you use is of sufficient quality and that your boat, if necessary, is prepared for a full day of fishing. It’s also a good idea to reach out to local guides and top-notch anglers, as they will be able to educate and advise you on the ins and outs of fishing in the Mississippi River.
Whether you try your luck with a traditional fishing rod or opt for a more contemporary method of bow fishing, you’ll need to hone your technique if you hope to take home a pearl. For anglers of all skill levels, timing is the key. Certain times will be more optimal than others for prime-time pearl spotting. On the whole, you’ll find that mornings can provide the best odds of ultimate pearl success.
Now comes the part you’ve been waiting for: searching for the pearl once you’ve caught the fish. It pays to be gentle since some of the skulls of the Mississippi River fish species can be brittle and contain very fine features. This is why it helps to bring along a brush, tweezers, and even small scissors to pick away the delicate pieces of bone. Once you’ve located a pearl, be sure to store it safely in a container filled with clean water.
The last steps in the process involve finding the value and possessing the pearl. If you’re fortunate enough to locate a stunning Mississippi River pearl, you’ll want to make sure you have it assessed to check if it can be classified as a gem. The gemologist will explain what kind of pearl you have, including its luster, shape, size, and luster. Then you’ll be able to determine the worth of your pearl, whether you decide to keep it in your collection or sell it for profit.
Cleanliness Preparations
In addition to researching and knowing your gear, it is essential to prepare the environment properly. It is impossible to find a pearl in an area that is not clean enough. So, the spot where you will look for pearls must be spick and span. The need for this preparation increases when you are on a boat, as the waves will disrupt particles and dirt which may reduce the visibility of the pearl.
So, it is best to create a comfortable and clean fishing environment. Plus, you can use non-toxic detergents or cleaning agents to make sure the water stays pure. You can also let your boat free from rainwater and find a place that is sheltered from wind onshore.
Using Protective Gear
Since you will be dealing with sharp tools and parts, you must wear the necessary protective gear. You might want the pearl in perfect condition and that means having the right tools to safely remove it from its shell. To avoid any cuts or accidental splinters, use goggles and a pair of good-quality gloves.
The same applies to the fish that you catch, as it is alive and you don’t want to hurt it. So, when you grab a fish, never use sharp tools or improvise with anything that is not made for the task. Handle the fish with caution, wear the right gloves and keep your nets in good condition.
Deep and Slow
Majority of the fish will be situated in the deeper parts of the river. When you try to spot a pearl from the surface, your chances are very slim. For that reason, it is best to search for the pearl in water at least five feet deep. Stick to smaller spots so you don’t miss anything and search everywhere for a pearl.
In addition, pearls are not easy to spot and will require 20 minutes to spot one. The waters in the rivers can be choppy and agitated, and the pearl is light and small, making it even more challenging. That’s why it pays to be patient and take multiple slow scans of the waters. Be sure to Go slow, look deep, and search broadly.
Experiment
To increase your chances of spotting a Mississippi river pearl, it is good to experiment and try different techniques when fishing. In addition to changing locations and depths, it is also prudent to mix up your bait. Experiment with different types of bait such as worms, insects, and fruits, as they will each attract fish in a certain way. Certain species may have a preference for certain bait and types of presentation, so it is wise to switch it up and adapt to the conditions.
You can even explore new worms, insects, and fruit that you find in the river. They may not be the typical bait that people use, but you can never underestimate the bait that you pick up from the natural environment. Plus, these rare baits can be more attractive to the big fish, which are more likely to hold the Mississippi River pearls.
Teamwork
Treasure hunting is not a one person activity and finding Mississippi River pearls can be especially daunting. That’s why teamwork is important for the success of the mission. You can even join an experienced pearl hunting team and get to learn more about the process. This can make the search fun and less exhausting, so don’t be shy to ask for help when looking for a pearl.
Enhanced safety and more efficient search processes are obvious benefits, plus it can often be arranged as a form of entertainment. Working in teams, especially if combined with a sense of competition and camaraderie, can result in an extraordinary pearl-seeking experience.
Stay Hydrated
A pearl hunt can last up to 10 hours and that is definitely a long time to spend in the sun searching for a gamble. Losing energy is a given, as you’ll move from spot to spot, take deep dives, and explore new parts of the river. This is why it is important to always stay hydrated by sipping water throughout your hunt, even if you are not thirsty.
It is also important to pack a few healthy snacks that will give you additional energy. Take small breaks to stay away from the heat, eat, and rest for a bit. Through all of that, remember that your safety comes first, so take necessary measures to ensure your safety while sailing, fishing, and diving.
