Lead-free fishing

Read what the Sportvisunie does to reduce lead use and which environmentally friendly alternatives are available.

Lead-free fishing

Lead-free fishing

Anglers use lead as ballast in lures, on hooks and in bait cages. Lost lead ends up in the environment. Lead harms people and animals. That is why we are reducing its use and looking for alternatives.

Cooperation and agreement

The Sportvisunie, the Association of Water Authorities (Unie van Waterschappen) and the national government signed the Cooperation Agreement Sportvisserij Loodvrij 2022-2024. This agreement builds on the Green Deal Sportvisserij Loodvrij. We work together to significantly reduce the use of lead and to inform anglers.

Click here for the full Cooperation Agreement Sportvisserij Loodvrij 2022-2024 (PDF).

Goal of the Green Deal

The goal remains clear: lead-free recreational fishing. We focus on raising awareness and on measures at the European level. The European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) advised restrictions for fishing lead in 2021. That advice initiated a process towards a possible European ban. The European Commission will decide on ECHA’s proposal in early 2023.

Awareness and health

Lead is a heavy metal. Water birds and other animals are at risk of lead poisoning. People are at risk when in contact with lead. You can absorb lead through the skin, mucous membranes or by inhaling fumes when casting lead. Therefore the Sportvisunie, the Association of Water Authorities and the ministries of LNV, VWS and I&W encourage the switch to environmentally friendly alternatives.

On increasing numbers of locations we are starting pilot areas for lead-free fishing, such as Madestein in The Hague.

European policy and actions

ECHA advises restricted use of fishing lead, depending on weight. The advice strengthens our commitment to regulation and to educating anglers. The partners in the cooperation support this European process.

Where can you find more information?

On this page you will find information about:

Read the cooperation agreement and view the publications for practical steps and results of fisheries research.

Check the alternatives and research results to fish safely and lead-free yourself.