The Washington State Fish and Wildlife Commission (WFWC) is considering a proposal that would unduly ban lead fishing tackle on selected state waters. The commission needs to hear from anglers before they make their final decision in February 2010. We urge you to ask the commission to reject this proposal.
Please send an e-mail/letter to the WFWC urging them to reject Proposed Rule #32 that would ban the use of lead fishing tackle in selected state waters. The proposal is based on the false assumptions that lead fishing tackle poses a threat to loon populations and that many alternatives to lead are widely available for approximately the same price.
Next Steps for the Commission
During its December 4 – 5 meeting in Olympia, the commission members heard from ASA staff, anglers, recreational fishing organizations and the general public who spoke out against the proposal. To view ASA’s full written statement, click here.v The WFWC will hear additional comments during its January 2010 meeting. The commission will make a final decision during a February 2010 meeting. Do your part and send an e-mail/letter to the WFWC to voice your concerns about this unnecessary and unjustified ban on lead fishing tackle. Click here or visit www.capwiz.com/asafish/issues/alert/?alertid=14446771 to send your e-mail.
No Evidence Supports a Lead Fishing Tackle Ban
No evidence exists that concludes that lead fishing tackle is threatening loon populations. A study of common loons by the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife found “no evidence of a declining population or a substantial change in distribution” in the state, and loon populations are stable or increasing throughout their range. Advocates for the proposed ban are using as evidence a finding that says over the past 13 years, only nine loons are found to have died from ingesting lead fishing tackle. Many other studies have concluded that lead fishing tackle does not negatively impact loon populations, and that bans on lead fishing tackle are unwarranted.
Additionally, fishing tackle made from alternatives to lead can be much more expensive, are in limited supply and do not perform as well.
Take Action Now!
Please take action now to ensure that the Washington State Fish and Wildlife Commission will reject the proposed ban by sending your e-mail/letter. Click here or visit www.capwiz.com/asafish/issues/alert/?alertid=14446771 to make your voice heard!
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