Fishing Lead-Free

Anglers can help eliminate or reduce the risk of wildlife ingesting lead tackle.

When choosing your gear, consider fishing tackle that does not contain lead. A variety of lead-free tackle products are available. Ask for lead alternatives at your local sporting goods store.

When using tackle containing lead:

• Check your line for knicks, tears or wear to prevent unwanted breakoffs and lost tackle.
• When applicable, consider selecting sinkers and jigs greater than 1 ounce or longer than 2.5 inches. Jigs less than 1 ounce or shorter than 2.5 inches are more likely to be ingested by waterbirds.
• Use lead-free wire for your streamers and nymphs.
• Make a reasonable effort to retrieve snagged lures or tackle.
• Never throw fishing gear into the water or onshore.

Dispose Of Lead Tackle Properly

Your local scrap metal recycler may accept lead tackle. The Wisconsin Recycling Markets Directory provides a list of scrap metal collection sites that accept lead. Select “Metals” for the material category and “Lead” for the material subcategory. Lead is a heavy metal that leaches and should be stored in a puncture-proof plastic container.

For many households, throwing unwanted lead tackle into the trash may be the only option. Double bagging or sealing the tackle in a plastic container can help prevent lead from leaching into the landfill. Lead tackle should never go in household recycling bins.

Education

Another great way to help is teaching good stewardship to young anglers. Outfit kids with tackle boxes with lead-free weights; they are safer for kids to handle. Plus, inexperienced anglers tend to lose the most sinkers, so you'll be cutting down on the amount of lead getting left behind in Wisconsin lakes and rivers.

Learn More About Lead Toxicity

For more information, visit the following websites:

• Lead Toxicity in Wildlife
• Precautions for eating deer harvested with lead ammunition
• Wisconsin Department of Health and Family Services - Lead