Make The Switch to Lead-Free Fishing Tackle

New Hampshire State Law prohibits the sale and freshwater use of lead fishing sinkers and lead jigs weighing on ounce or less.

A "lead jig" means a weighted hook that weighs one ounce or less and is prohibited regardless of whether it is painted, coated, covered by some other substance or attached skirts.

Lead poisoning is the leading cause of death for adult Common Loons in New Hampshire. Now is the time to switch to lead-free fishing gear made from bismuth, tungsten, steel, tin or other non-toxic materials, Look for lead-free tackle products at your favorite tackle shop or online retailer.

Over 40% of adult loons collected since 1989 died from lead poisoning from ingested lead sinkers and lead-headed jigs. Lead is highly toxic and loons will die within two to four weeks after they ingest just one small lead object.

The Bristol Transfer Station accepts Lead Fishing Sinkers/Jigs!

For more information, please visit www.loonsafe.org.