Current and Proposed Bans on Lead Fishing Tackle
Several states in the northeastern U.S. have already implemented bans on lead fishing tackle, and some other states and federal agencies are currently considering bans. Here is a current list of proposed and active lead bans:
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Connecticut
Connecticut has introduced legislation in 2011 to ban all lead sinkers and jigs under S.B. 59. However, after a public hearing on the issue and angler advocate response, the Environment Committee did not vote prior to the committee's deadline on March 25, 2011, rendering it dead.
Massachusetts
The Massachusetts Division of Fish and Wildlife has enacted an administrative rule that prohibits the use of lead fishing sinkers and jigs less than 1 ounce in all inland waters of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts (effective January 1, 2012).
Maine
Maine passed legislation in 2001 (effective January 1, 2002) to ban the sales of lead sinker ½ ounce or less.
New Hampshire
New Hampshire was the first state to ban the use of lead sinkers. Legislation to do so was passed in 1998 (effective in 2000). The legislation prohibits the use of lead sinkers in lakes and ponds up to one ounce and lead jigs up to one inch in length. The state later expanded the legislation to include all waters of the state. The New Hampshire Legislature introduced legislation in early 2012 to further expand existing regulations. The bill has been sent to Interim Study and will not be considered further until the 2013 legislative session.
New York
New York passed legislation in 2002 (effective May 2004) that bans the sale of lead sinkers to the end user.
Vermont
Vermont passed legislation prohibiting the sale (effective January 1, 2006) and use (effective January 1, 2007) of lead fishing sinkers ½ ounce or less. The state implemented a lead sinker education program beginning July 1, 2004.
Washington
In May 2011, the Washington Fish and Wildlife Commission implemented a regulation that prohibits the use of lead fishing weights and jigs that measure 1 ½ inches or less along the longest axis at 12 lakes. The Commission also banned the use of flies containing lead at Long Lake in Ferry County. In January 2012, the state legislature considered a statewide ban of certain lead fishing tackle, but abandoned legislation due to large public opposition. Read more on the recently adopted regulations on lead fishing tackle in Washington state.
National Parks
On March 10, 2009, the National Park Service (NPS) announced its intention to ban ammunition and fishing tackle with lead components in national parks by 2010. Officials have since stated the ban will apply only to NPS internal operations. In addition, vendors on NPS properties have been directed to no longer purchase and restock recreational fishing products with lead when current inventories are gone.
