Small Lead Fishing Sinkers Now Illegal To Use In Maine

In an effort to help save Loons, small lead sinkers are illegal to use in Maine.

Anglers are being reminded of a new law that went into effect this month. Fishing sinkers that contain any amount of lead smaller than 2 1/2 inches, or weigh less than one ounce are now illegal to sell or use in Maine.

The Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife adds: "The definition of a lead sinker DOES NOT include artificial lures, weighted line, weighted flies or jig heads."

The hope is the ban will help the continued growth of the Loon population in the state. Ingesting lead tackle is the leading cause of Loon deaths.