DNA detection is usually performed using fluorescence probes. Using a DNA oligomer stained with the widely used dye 1,1′-[1,3-propanediylbis[(dimethylimino)-3,1-propanediyl]]bis[4-[(3-methyl-2(3H)-benzoxazolylidene)methyl]]-quinolinum tetraiodide (YOYO-1), we show that a substrate containing silver particles can lead to a greater than 10-fold increase in the fluorescence intensity. Proximity to silver particles also increases the photostability of YOYO-1–DNA. These results suggest that substrates or gels containing silver particles may be used for increased sensitivity in DNA detection.