Get a gold pan, a bucket, and a shovel
Find a likely gold-bearing stream or river
Check local rules and get permission if needed
Fill the pan about halfway with gravel and sand from the streambed
Submerge the pan in water
Break up clay and larger clumps with your hands
Shake the pan gently underwater to settle the heavier material
Tilt the pan slightly and wash the lighter material over the rim
Repeat shaking and washing until only a small amount remains
Keep the pan low in the water to avoid losing gold
Look for shiny yellow flakes or small nuggets in the remaining material
Use a snuffer bottle, tweezers, or vial to collect any gold
Repeat with more material from cracks, crevices, and behind rocks
Work slowly and carefully
Practice to improve your technique