Lead sinkers and jigs

Recreational anglers (people who fish using a hook and line) often attach lead weights to their fishing line to sink the hook and bait or lure in the water. They may also use lead jigs, which are weighted fish hooks. Fishing sinkers come in all shapes and sizes.

Sometimes people accidentally drop loose fishing sinkers or jigs into the water. Sinkers and jigs may also be lost in the water if the hook or line gets tangled and the line breaks or is cut. Scientists estimate that about 500 tonnes of lead sinkers and jigs are lost in Canadian waters every year.

Lead sinkers and jig
Illustration: Michael Cooper