Thanks for the replies. I'm a little worried about waders filling up and its quite windy at the lake where I want to go, but I'll just not go so deep and it will be ok. I imagine I'll want to add a rope to the detector and scoop so I can let go of them if necessary. I'm still reading up on everything and checking out what other people are doing.
Water snakes are an issue for sure, but they aren't near the swimming beach where I go and I haven't seen any at this pond, but sure, that doesn't mean they aren't there.
First of all I am a little confused. You sound like you have abosolutely No experience in water hunting and now you want to weigh yourself down with a rope tied to you and your scoop and water detector???
NO detector OR scoop is worth your life. The LAST thing you need is to get in trouble and fight with a detector and scoop tied to you. LET THAT TRASH GO. You can get it back later if you live.
NOBODY here will tell you if you need a PFD OR NOT. We have absolutely NO idea of your skill level in the water. DO NOT tie a rope to your stupid scoop.
I have been diving since 1979 and certified in 1980. I was on the sheriff search and rescue team when I was a state police officer. I never had to recover a body thank goodness but I was ready. I have also been water hunting for 14 years now.
My friend wasn't so lucky in 4' of water. They also never found his stealth scoop.
ALL here want to give you sound and pratical advice. NOBODY here wants to see a casualty of someone thinking they will get rich and jump in to find tons of gold and silver and then drown.
Just be careful, be aware of your surroundings and KNOW to DITCH your equipment if you get into trouble. IF you get on a drop-off in an inland lake IT WILL try to pull you deeper.
ALL the folks that said they do not wear a PFD say they are good swimmers. HOWEVER, EVERY sheriff officer on marine patrol and every coast guard person HAS to wear a PFD for their safety AND the safety of the people they need to help.
Its still ABSOLUTELY YOUR choice. Just know what you are getting into and don't rely on what others do.
If I sound harsh I am sorry. Water hunting is profitable BUT dangerous.
Have fun and Good luck out there.