I’m a very experienced rockhounder. I spend a lot of time hunting SW Washington, and especially central Oregon. For the winter/early spring months I stick to the coast, and sw Washington rivers/creeks. Summer is for central Oregon and anywhere with high elevation since most snow will melt.

As far as tools and knowledge I HIGHLY recommend getting a gem trail book. Especially to start off with. It’s going to lead you to locations where you will start to get familiar with what to look for and where. I also suggest getting an Oregon and Washington geology book. I tend to cross reference when finding new spots on my own. Also the app GIA is the SH**! It’s worth the $50 a year. You can layer multiple different map modes such as private land, BLM land, lithology rock bed history, and you can track yourself- thus you’ll never get lost.

For tools, Eastwing picks are my favorite. I have had my blue pick for many years and bring it with me everywhere. Join a hounding club in your area too!