Prospectors

New and returning prospectors who want a proven, step-by-step system.

Researchers

Land researchers who want to go from “maps and files” to “pins in the ground”.

Entrepreneurs

Operators and entrepreneurs who care about deals (options, JVs, royalties), not just rocks.

Operator-grade workflow

You’re not just “learning software”—you’re building a repeatable prospecting business.

Paperwork that passes muster

Clear checklists and examples prevent the small errors that kill value.

Deal focus from day one

Every step is aimed at creating claims someone will actually buy or JV.

Module 1 — Build Your Prospecting Stack

Set up your full toolchain so you can go from desktop to drill flag—fast.

• Google Earth (free): locate prospective tracts and plan routes
• Prospecting datasets: abandoned mines, historical assays, geology layers
• BLM Surface Management maps: confirm open/closed ground
• Field navigation: Garmin handhelds + free iOS/Android apps

Week-1 Challenge: drop pins in Google Earth and navigate to them in the field.

Module 2 — Land Research Foundations

Learn the rules of the land so you stop wasting time on closed or withdrawn areas.

• Query the BLM mining claims database (what’s taken, what’s open)
• Master Title Plats: what they show and how to read them
• Public lands basics + state parcel viewers to find stakeable areas
• Mining district research: where to pull reports, maps, and historic assays online

Module 3 — Advanced Land Research & Mapping

Turn scattered sources into precise, defensible boundaries.

• Prospecting ideas: synthesize USGS data, old reports, and modern tools
• Advanced Master Title Plats with real examples
• Withdrawn lands: how to identify and avoid them
• County Recorder lookups: get claim maps and documents (active/closed)
• Plot existing & new claims in Google Earth
• When (and how) to use Upwork contractors for GIS—and who to hire

Module 4 — Mining Law & Bulletproof Paperwork

Cut through jargon, choose the right claim type, and file flawlessly.

• Federal vs. state law: what actually governs your claim
• Locatable vs. leasable vs. saleable minerals (and what you can legally stake)
• Claim types: lode, placer (incl. gulch), and when to use each
• Nevada specifics + a fully worked lode claim example (forms + map)
• Metes and bounds: write clear descriptions that stand up to scrutiny
• Tie points: how to find and use them (and common pro mistakes)
• Placer via rectangular survey: the simple route when it fits
• Checklists for notices & maps; filing at County and BLM; annual fees and small miner’s waiver

Module 5 — Field Work: Staking Your Claim

From GPS to stake in the ground—without do-overs.

• Stake types & markings that meet expectations
• Load coordinates into Garmin or phone, navigate accurately
• Stake while you prospect: efficient workflows
• Sampling: collect and process correctly to avoid false signals

Module 6 — State-by-State Playbooks

Know the quirks before you drive.

• Requirements for the 14 Western states + Alaska
• Best state geological surveys and how to use them
• Where each state hides its “good stuff” online

Module 7 — Explore & Add Value

Turn raw ground into a package buyers respect.

• Soil & rock chip sampling; which assay methods to order (and why)
• Light geophysics overview + magnetic survey example
• Hiring a geologist; scoping credible geological reports
• 43-101 / JORC: what they are (and aren’t) for small programs
• Notice permits: coverage, process, and a complete example
• Drilling: typical costs, program design, and realistic next steps

Module 8 — Monetize: From Claim to Check

Structure deals that create durable upside.

• Where to sell: eBay, niche sites, and the junior mining ecosystem
• Options, leases, JVs, and royalties—what fits which asset
• Real-world deal examples and submittal templates that get replies

Bonuses

• QGIS templates for professional maps
• MLRS (BLM) quick-start workflows
• Curated list of the best phone apps & research websites

Self-Paced Video

Screen shares and video lessons you can watch anytime, anywhere.

Downloadable Resources

Checklists, map templates, and sample forms ready to use.

Q&A & Community

Office-hours style Q&A and community access (optional tier).

Curtis J.

"Jeff was able to work with me and help me stake my first claims within a few weeks of starting the course. I have already sold my first 3 claims!"

Dion M.

"An amazing experience.  We have staked two claims so far and found some good workings in the field.  I couldn’t be happier with the course and all the time Jeff takes with his students."

Thad Z.

"Excellent material.  Well presented.  Well worth it."

Ed R.

"Really enjoyed the course.  I was able to get out into the field in Nevada and get some personal instruction from Jeff’s geologist. Looking forward to staking some more claims."