I've wrapped a leather strip around my spinning rod grip to make it larger and more comfortable to use when the temperature drops in winter. Sounds like you did the same thing.
I doubt whether any one will give specific spots but any map will show rivers connected to Lake Ontario & they are the ones to concentrate your efforts on. Welcome to the forum !
I don't know if wheel balancing weights would work, but there must be a lot discarded at CT and other tire stores. You might have to skim off the impurities.