On 12 November 2026, the Commission adopted measures to restrict lead in fishing weights and lures under the EU’s chemicals legislation, REACH.
The restriction bans the placing on the market and commercial use of fishing weights and lures containing at least 1% lead by weight. From 3 March 2027, it will apply to sinkers intended to be released during use and fishing wires. It will apply later to other tackle: from 3 December 2029 to small tackle weighing 50 g or less, and from 3 December 2031 to larger tackle weighing more than 50 g and up to 1 kg.
The restriction is expected to protect around 7 million birds by preventing the release of approximately 50 000 tonnes of lead from fishing tackle over 20 years. This represents a 70% reduction in emissions compared with the current situation. The measures are expected to cost less than €30 per year per fisher.
Fishing nets, tackle embedded in nets and lines, tackle made of copper and brass, and tiny weights of 0.06 g or less are not covered by the restriction because they pose a limited risk to the environment. The recreational use of lead fishing tackle is also not covered. However, EU countries can restrict it nationally, allowing them to tailor the measures to their enforcement strategies.
REACH restricts chemicals that pose a risk to human health or the environment. There is extensive evidence showing that lead is toxic to people, particularly children and pregnant women, as it can negatively affect the neurodevelopment of the fetus. It is also toxic to the environment, as it can kill animals that accidentally ingest it. For this reason, REACH already restricts the use of lead in several consumer products.
The measures will be introduced gradually, without costly recalls. This will limit the impact on individual fishers and fishing businesses while ensuring that lead fishing tackle is phased out over time.
The Commission remains fully committed to protecting people and the environment from the harmful effects of lead.
