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The European tackle trade has expressed its disappointment that following representations from a small number of Member States, a ban on the use of lead in fishing tackle by anglers will not be illegal when restrictions come in place.
Previously, the EU Commission had proposed a ban on use, but some countries were against the stance of the European Fishing Tackle Trade Association (EFTTA) which wanted a total ban on its production, sale and use. EFTTA described the decision to allow anglers to continue to fish with banned lead products as a ‘major flaw’.
In a press release, it said: “EFTTA wants a use ban to make the sales ban effective, enforceable and to protect the EU tackle businesses and consumers from illegal imports, counterfeits and homemade lead products.”
Anglers will not be breaking the law by fishing with existing lead weights or lures. However, the ability to buy new lead products will be phased out over time, which will inevitably influence tackle availability, pricing and product development.
“EFTTA is considering whether to continue lobbying the EU Council and EU Parliament. If it does that successfully, it will extend the introduction of any legislation further.”
EFTTA was reacting after the REACH Committee voted last week to adopt the European Commission’s proposal to restrict the sale of lead in fishing tackle. The decision was passed by a narrow majority, reflecting ongoing disagreement among Member States about how far the rules should go.
The adopted text now moves to the European Parliament and the Council for a three‑month scrutiny period. If neither institution objects, the Commission can formally adopt the regulation and publish it in the Official Journal. In practical terms, this means the new rules could begin taking effect within four to five months, although several phase‑in periods will delay the full impact.
EFTTA says it has been informed of the outcome through informal channels and stresses that the final text has not yet been published, meaning some details may still shift.
Key measures and phase‑in timelines:
- Products may contain up to 1% lead by weight and still be legally sold;
- Drop‑in sinkers and lead wire: banned six months after Entry Into Force (EIF);
- Sinkers and lures under 50g: sales ban three years after EIF;
- Sinkers and lures above 50g and up to 1kg: sales ban five years after EIF;
- Retailers must display warning labels for products containing lead during the transition periods.
For anglers, this means a gradual shift away from traditional lead-based tackle, with lighter weights disappearing from shelves first.
Two important exemptions – set to be reviewed 10 years after EIF – will affect both anglers and manufacturers:
- Copper-alloy lures containing more than 3% lead by weight remain permitted;
- Micro split shot (0.06g or less) may continue to be sold, provided they come in spill‑proof, child‑resistant packaging.
These measures will help preserve certain specialist techniques and products, particularly in coarse and fly fishing.
EFTTA added: “For now, anglers can continue using their existing lead tackle without restriction. But the market will begin shifting long before the bans take effect. Manufacturers will accelerate development of non‑lead alternatives and retailers will need to prepare for new labelling requirements.
“The coming months will be crucial. If Parliament or Council raise objections – or if EFTTA’s lobbying gains traction – the timeline could change. But if the proposal proceeds unchallenged, Europe’s anglers will soon see the most significant tackle-material transition since the early days of modern sport fishing.”
