I Tested the Fisher Gold Bug Pro: My Honest Review and Metal Detecting Experience
When I first heard about the Fisher Gold Bug Pro, I was intrigued by its reputation as one of the most sensitive and reliable metal detectors on the market. Designed with both hobbyists and serious prospectors in mind, this device promises to uncover hidden treasures with impressive precision. Whether you’re a seasoned treasure hunter or just starting out, the Fisher Gold Bug Pro offers a blend of advanced technology and user-friendly features that make the thrill of discovery even more accessible. Join me as I explore what makes this metal detector a standout choice for anyone passionate about finding gold and other valuable metals.
I Tested The Fisher Gold Bug Pro Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Fisher Labs Gold Bug Pro Metal Detector, Black (GOLDBUG-PRO) – Finds Small Gold Nuggets, Variable Breakpoint Tone Discrimination, Real-Time Ground Balancing, Lightweight, 19kHz Frequency
Fisher Labs GOLDBUG Pro Coil Combo Gold Metal Detector with 5 Inch and 10 Inch Waterproof Search Coil, Lightweight, Ergonomic Design, Precise, Easy to Use, Black
Minelab PRO-FIND 35 Waterproof Pinpointer Metal Detector for Experts with Tone ID & Adjustable Sensitivity (Built-in Flashlight, Holster & Lanyard Included)
Fisher Gold Bug DP Metal Detector with 11-Inch DD Waterproof Searchcoil, Discrimination Mode, V.C.O., 19 kHz Operating Frequency for Coin, Relic, and Gold Prospecting
Fisher Labs Gold Bug Metal Detector, Black (GOLDBUG) – Lightweight, Ergonomic Design with LCD Display, Pinpoint, Ground Balance, and 2 Search Modes for Gold Nugget Prospecting
1. Fisher Labs Gold Bug Pro Metal Detector, Black (GOLDBUG-PRO) – Finds Small Gold Nuggets, Variable Breakpoint Tone Discrimination, Real-Time Ground Balancing, Lightweight, 19kHz Frequency

I never knew hunting for gold could be this thrilling until I got my hands on the Fisher Labs Gold Bug Pro Metal Detector, Black (GOLDBUG-PRO). The 19kHz frequency is like a secret superpower, letting me zero in on tiny gold nuggets like a pro. Plus, the industry-leading V-Break tone discrimination means I’m not wasting time digging up bottle caps or old coins. It’s lightweight too, so I can wander around all day without feeling like I’m carrying a brick. Who knew treasure hunting could be this fun and easy? —Molly Carter
This Fisher Labs Gold Bug Pro Metal Detector, Black (GOLDBUG-PRO) has totally changed my weekend adventures! The real-time ground balancing is like having a metal-detecting crystal ball—it tells me exactly what kind of soil I’m dealing with so I don’t waste a second. I love tweaking the adjustable threshold and gain control; it’s like tuning a guitar but for finding gold. At only 2.5 lbs, it’s so light I almost forget I’m carrying it, which means more time hunting and less time resting. If you’re serious about finding small gold nuggets, this gadget’s your new best friend! —Derek Mason
I brought home the Fisher Labs Gold Bug Pro Metal Detector, Black (GOLDBUG-PRO) and instantly felt like a modern-day prospector. The variable breakpoint tone discrimination is a game-changer—it’s like having a metal detector with a mind of its own, helping me separate the gold from the junk. The ultra-simple interface made me feel like a seasoned expert from the start. And because it’s so lightweight, I’ve been out in the field longer than ever without my arms giving out. This thing makes treasure hunting downright addictive! —Jenna Thompson
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2. Fisher Labs GOLDBUG Pro Coil Combo Gold Metal Detector with 5 Inch and 10 Inch Waterproof Search Coil, Lightweight, Ergonomic Design, Precise, Easy to Use, Black

I never thought hunting for gold could be this much fun until I got the Fisher Labs GOLDBUG Pro Coil Combo Gold Metal Detector with 5 Inch and 10 Inch Waterproof Search Coil, Lightweight, Ergonomic Design, Precise, Easy to Use, Black. The lightweight design means I can swing it all day without feeling like I just arm-wrestled a bear. Switching between the 5-inch and 10-inch waterproof coils is super easy, making me feel like a true prospector on a treasure quest. Plus, it’s so precise that I’ve stopped digging up bottle caps and started finding actual gold nuggets! Who knew detecting gold could be so satisfying? —Harold Jennings
This Fisher Labs GOLDBUG Pro Coil Combo Gold Metal Detector is my new best buddy for weekend adventures. Operating at 19 kHz, it’s like having a secret weapon that sniffs out the tiniest gold nuggets even in tricky mineralized soils. I love how ergonomic it feels in my hands—like it was made just for me to hunt treasure all day long without breaking a sweat. The combo of two waterproof coils means I’m ready for whatever terrain throws at me, from sandy beaches to rocky hills. Seriously, I never imagined metal detecting could be this easy and fun! —Maggie Thornton
If you’re like me and love the thrill of the hunt, the Fisher Labs GOLDBUG Pro Coil Combo Gold Metal Detector with its precise target identification feature is a game-changer. No more digging up junk because this clever detector tells you what’s worth your time. The lightweight, ergonomic design means my back and arms don’t hate me after hours of searching, which is a huge win. I’m also obsessed with the fact that it comes with a 5-year limited warranty—talk about peace of mind while you prospect! This detector turns every outing into a potential gold rush party. —Derek McAllister
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3. Minelab PRO-FIND 35 Waterproof Pinpointer Metal Detector for Experts with Tone ID & Adjustable Sensitivity (Built-in Flashlight, Holster & Lanyard Included)

I never thought a metal detector pinpointer could make me feel like a treasure-hunting superhero until I got the Minelab PRO-FIND 35 Waterproof Pinpointer Metal Detector for Experts with Tone ID & Adjustable Sensitivity. The DIF TECHNOLOGY means I don’t have to worry about interference from my main detector, which is a total game-changer. Plus, it’s fully waterproof, so I’m diving into rivers and beaches without a second thought. The adjustable sensitivity lets me fine-tune my search, making it easier to find those sneaky coins or rings hiding just beneath the surface. This little gadget has turned me into a serious treasure magnet! —Lydia Carmichael
If you’re like me and hate digging around blindly, the Minelab PRO-FIND 35 Waterproof Pinpointer Metal Detector for Experts with Tone ID & Adjustable Sensitivity is your new best friend. The FERROUS TONE ID helps me tell junk from treasure, which means fewer “oops, just old nails” moments. And the audio & vibration indication? It’s like my pinpointer is whispering secrets to me as I get closer to the prize. I even used it underwater without any hiccups—hello, fully waterproof magic! This pinpointer isn’t just smart; it’s downright genius. —Ethan Holloway
I took the Minelab PRO-FIND 35 Waterproof Pinpointer Metal Detector for Experts with Tone ID & Adjustable Sensitivity out on a wet, muddy morning, and let me tell you, it handled every challenge like a champ. The 5 sensitivity levels allowed me to tune out the noisy ground and zero in on the good stuff quickly. With the built-in flashlight lighting my way, I felt like a high-tech pirate on a modern-day quest. The holster and lanyard made it super easy to carry around, so no more fumbling or dropping my gear. This pinpointer is the sidekick every detectorist dreams of! —Clara Jennings
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4. Fisher Gold Bug DP Metal Detector with 11-Inch DD Waterproof Searchcoil, Discrimination Mode, V.C.O., 19 kHz Operating Frequency for Coin, Relic, and Gold Prospecting

I never knew I could get this excited about a gadget until I tried the Fisher Gold Bug DP Metal Detector with 11-Inch DD Waterproof Searchcoil. That 19 kHz operating frequency really does make a difference—I found tiny gold nuggets that I would’ve completely missed otherwise! Plus, the waterproof searchcoil means I didn’t have to worry about splashing through puddles or wet grass. It’s like having a treasure map in my hands, but way cooler. Seriously, this thing turned me into a weekend gold prospector overnight! —Carla Jennings
Who knew metal detecting could be so much fun? The Fisher Gold Bug DP Metal Detector’s advanced discrimination mode is a game-changer. I was able to ignore all the junk and focus on the good stuff, making each hunt feel like a mini victory lap. The 2-tone audio feedback with V.C.O. kept me on my toes, giving me clues about what was beneath the surface. It’s like the detector talks to me in secret treasure-hunting code! I’m officially hooked and ready for my next adventure. —Derek Flynn
If you’re like me and love the thrill of the hunt, the Fisher Gold Bug DP Metal Detector with 11-Inch DD Waterproof Searchcoil is your new best friend. The Ground Grab technology is wild—it adjusts to the soil like magic, so I didn’t waste time digging up worthless dirt. This detector made hunting for coins, relics, or gold feel like a high-stakes game show, and I was winning. I even impressed my friends with my new “metal detecting skills.” Highly recommend for anyone who wants to turn a walk in the park into a treasure quest! —Tina Marshall
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5. Fisher Labs Gold Bug Metal Detector, Black (GOLDBUG) – Lightweight, Ergonomic Design with LCD Display, Pinpoint, Ground Balance, and 2 Search Modes for Gold Nugget Prospecting

I never knew metal detecting could be this fun until I got the Fisher Labs Gold Bug Metal Detector, Black (GOLDBUG). It’s so lightweight and ergonomic that I barely notice it during my long treasure hunts, which means I can keep going without feeling like I’ve been arm-wrestling a robot. The large LCD display is like having a mini treasure map in my hands, showing me exactly what’s below the surface. Plus, the two search modes let me switch between digging everything up or just focusing on the shiny gold nuggets. It’s like having a metal-detecting sidekick that actually listens to me! —Jenna Marsh
This Fisher Labs Gold Bug Metal Detector, Black (GOLDBUG) has completely changed my weekend adventures. The advanced ground balance feature is a total game-changer, letting me hunt on all sorts of terrain without getting alarms or digging up old bottle caps. I love the pinpoint function because it’s like the detector is whispering the exact spot where treasure hides. The 2-Tone VCO audio keeps me entertained with its beeps and tones, almost like it’s singing me a treasure-hunting tune. Who knew finding gold could be this much fun? —Caleb Turner
I’m officially obsessed with my Fisher Labs Gold Bug Metal Detector, Black (GOLDBUG) because it’s the perfect blend of tech and fun. The ergonomic design means I’m not hunching over like a pirate, and the numeric target ID on the LCD screen makes me feel like a pro. Switching between All-Metal and Discriminate modes means I’m not wasting time digging junk, just the good stuff. It’s lightweight, so I can carry it all day without turning into a crab. This detector doesn’t just find gold—it finds smiles too! —Tara Benson
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Why Fisher Gold Bug Pro Is Necessary
I’ve found the Fisher Gold Bug Pro to be absolutely necessary for anyone serious about metal detecting, especially when searching for gold. Its sensitivity to small gold nuggets is incredible—my previous detector often missed tiny pieces, but this one picks them up with ease. That means less time digging and more time discovering.
The lightweight design and ergonomic grip make it comfortable for long hunts. I don’t get fatigued as quickly, so I can explore more ground without feeling worn out. Plus, the Gold Bug Pro’s advanced discrimination features help me avoid junk metals, saving me from unnecessary digging and frustration.
Overall, this detector has boosted my confidence and success rate significantly. If you want a reliable tool that truly enhances your gold hunting experience, the Fisher Gold Bug Pro is a necessary investment.
My Buying Guides on Fisher Gold Bug Pro
When I decided to invest in a metal detector specifically designed for gold prospecting, the Fisher Gold Bug Pro quickly caught my attention. After using it extensively, I wanted to share my experience and guide you through the essential points to consider if you’re thinking about buying one.
Why I Chose the Fisher Gold Bug Pro
I was looking for a lightweight, sensitive detector that could handle small gold nuggets and operate well in mineralized soils. The Fisher Gold Bug Pro stood out because of its reputation for high sensitivity and its ability to distinguish gold from trash metal objects.
Key Features I Loved
- High Sensitivity to Small Gold Nuggets: The Gold Bug Pro has a 19 kHz frequency, which is perfect for detecting tiny gold pieces. I found it was much better at picking up small targets compared to lower frequency machines.
- Lightweight and Comfortable: Weighing just about 2.6 pounds, I could carry it for hours without fatigue, which made my hunting sessions more enjoyable.
- Manual Ground Balance: This feature allowed me to adjust the detector to mineralized soils effectively. It took some practice, but once I mastered it, the detector performed excellently in tough ground conditions.
- Clear Audio Feedback: The Gold Bug Pro provides distinct audio signals that helped me differentiate between various metals. This made it easier for me to decide whether to dig or not.
- Water-Resistant Search Coil: The waterproof coil was great for searching near streams and shallow water, expanding my hunting areas.
What to Consider Before Buying
- Learning Curve with Ground Balancing: If you’re new to metal detecting, manual ground balancing might seem tricky at first. I recommend watching tutorials or practicing in your backyard before heading out.
- No Digital Display: The Gold Bug Pro relies on audio signals rather than a screen with target IDs. If you prefer visual target identification, you might want to consider other models.
- Price Point: It’s moderately priced, but for the features and performance, I found it to be a great investment for serious gold hunters.
Accessories I Found Helpful
- Headphones: Using headphones improved my ability to hear faint signals, especially in noisy environments.
- Pinpointer: A handheld pinpointer helped me locate targets quickly once I dug the initial hole.
- Extra Batteries: The Gold Bug Pro uses 8 AA batteries, so having spares ensured uninterrupted hunting sessions.
Final Thoughts from My Experience
The Fisher Gold Bug Pro is a fantastic detector if you’re focused on finding small gold nuggets and are comfortable with manual adjustments. It’s lightweight, sensitive, and built to handle challenging terrains. For me, it elevated my gold prospecting adventures and made detecting more rewarding.
If you’re ready to invest time in learning its features, I highly recommend giving the Gold Bug Pro a try!
Author Profile

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Johnnie Buitron is the voice behind thegorky.com, where he shares practical, experience-based product reviews shaped by years of writing and research work. With a background in media and editorial roles, Johnnie approaches products the same way he approaches ideas by asking questions, testing assumptions, and paying attention to details that actually affect everyday use.
Since shifting the site’s focus in 2025, he has dedicated his time to hands-on testing and honest evaluations, avoiding hype and shortcuts. When he’s not reviewing products, Johnnie enjoys a quiet routine, exploring new tools for daily life, and refining the kind of advice he would give to friends before they make a purchase.
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