Nuggets of News Blog 

Since gold is 19 times heavier than water, it will drop out of a moving current and settle into streambed gravels and other places whenever the water flow is no longer strong enough to keep it moving. Gold is also heavier by volume than the average weight of the sand, silt, and  rocks that make up an average streambed. Because of the disparity in  weight, when streambed material is being washed down a waterway, most of the gold will work down to the bottom of  the streambed material. These "drop spots" are the best places to find gold.

Also look for gravel bars that are now high and dry after winter flooding. They are generally going to be located on the inside curve of the stream where the water flow slows down. The gravel bar's rough surface creates a gold trap.

Are there downed trees across the stream from winter storms? Check the gravels behind the obstruction. Tree roots and dense clumps of weeds along a stream bank can also trap gold, so check the dirt in these areas, too.

Boulders are another natural gold trap, but be very careful when trying to move large rocks to check underneath them for gold. If you cannot move the boulders, sample around the base and in cracks and crevices. Natural "potholes" in rocks are excellent gold  catchers. Debris can settle in the po holes and act as a  "cap" for bits of gold that have been washed into the depression. Often the cap will completely hide gold that is underneath it, so check thoroughly.

Another tip is don't be afraid to revisit waterways you've tested in the past, even if you think they're all worked out. Mother Nature changes rivers and streams every winter. The amount of snow melt and rain differs each year, which means "new" gold is always on the move... waiting for YOU to find it with your pan, sluice, highbanker, or dredge. Good luck, be safe, and have fun!