How to Dive for Bottles

Research the area you plan to dive. Look for evidence or maps of old water routes, channels, piers, boat docks, old port areas, and ferry or river crossings that are no longer used.

Check out the prospective diving area for possible equipment that you might need. Consider water depth, visibility, current, and high or low tide intervals. Some areas might be very calm, and all you'll need is a snorkel, mask and flippers. Large, deep water bodies or murky, brackish waters might require a compass, lights, scuba gear and a boat.

Dive to the bottom and begin exploring the area. Look for shiny glimmers of glass or irregular shapes along the bottom. Use a brush, your hands or a sifter to move sand and mud away once you spot a prospect.

Place the bottle into your dive bag and return to the surface.