panning buddy wanted Options

[fenixsmom]

Hey there everyone. I'm just starting out my addiction to gold panning. I live in the Golden area and am looking for anyone who would want to join in local areas. I'm not looking to invite myself to someone's claim or dig after their "glory holes". I'm just looking for new friends to to go with my new hobby :D I'm currently trying to save up enough money to pay for membership to really saturate myself with like minded individuals! I only know of three local rivers (probably everyone's first rivers). I hope to see you all out there good luck and happy hunting! I'll just be over here ~> lol bye folks!

[swizz]

Hi fenix, welcome to CP and the world of prospecting!
You're in a good location for panning, lots of stuff nearby.
I'm on the other side of the mtn but Clear Creek would be a great starting point for you since you're in Golden. The 'Jeffco Open Space Recreational Area' encompasses much of Clear Creek going up HWY6 before the Blackhawk exit. Jefferson County owns that land but they allow prospecting as a recreational activity and have posted their rules which must be followed since it is their private property and not protected by the Mining Laws of 1872.
If you want to venture into BLM lands or NFS lands (which you OWN by the way) then it's a different ballgame and you have Federal mining rights.... also Federal mining regulations. Land status identification is of utmost importance and it's no coincidence that we teach how to research everything you need to know here at CP!
I think it's not a bad idea to learn your equipment and techniques on Recreational (private) land as long as you learn and follow their rules. I've always gotten Gold from Clear Creek, fairly easy pickins but all flour or micron Gold, it'll test your skills and make you a great panner. Basically a good place to practice.
Last year we did a CP gathering there just before spring runoff and had a great time! I think about 6 of us showed up. I'll try to organize something like that again this spring. Quick and easy 1-day gathering would be really fun again.
Make yourself at home here on the forums and ask away with any questions you might have, we're here for ya and the archives are deep with valuable information.