Get the Lead Out - Lead-Free Fishing Tackle Rebate Program

The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) offers the "Get the Lead Out" Lead-free Fishing Tackle Rebate Program, designed to encourage retail establishments to stock and sell lead-free fishing tackle alternatives. This state-funded environmental initiative aims to protect Minnesota's wildlife, particularly loons and other waterfowl, from lead poisoning while simultaneously supporting local businesses and improving angling success rates for Minnesota fishers. The program's primary objective is to increase the availability and affordability of lead-free fishing tackle options across Minnesota by providing financial incentives to retail establishments. The MPCA recognizes that lead fishing tackle poses significant environmental and wildlife health risks, as ingested lead sinkers and jigs can cause fatal lead poisoning in loons, eagles, and other wildlife species. By offering rebates to retailers, the program creates a market-driven approach to environmental protection that benefits both wildlife conservation and the fishing community. Eligible retail establishments can receive a 45% rebate on their purchases of lead-free fishing tackle intended for resale to consumers and the public. The program dedicates $50,000 in total funding, with individual retail establishments eligible to receive up to $3,000 in rebates per location. Retailers have flexibility in sourcing their lead-free tackle, though the MPCA provides an online resource listing manufacturers and retailers of lead-free alternatives to assist with product selection and supplier identification. Eligibility is restricted to owners or operators of brick-and-mortar retail establishments physically located within Minnesota that sell fishing bait and tackle as part of their business operations. Applicants must operate for-profit businesses with 100 full-time equivalent employees or fewer, including parent companies and all related business operations. Franchise owners and operators are eligible provided they meet all specified criteria, ensuring that both independent retailers and franchise operations can participate in the program. The application process operates on a rolling, first-come-first-served basis, with applications accepted continuously until either the dedicated $50,000 in funding is fully dispersed or the program deadline of March 31, 2027 at 4:00 p.m. Central Time, whichever occurs first. Interested retailers must submit the required application form along with supporting documentation as specified in the request for proposals document. The MPCA provides sample grant agreements to help applicants understand the terms and conditions of participation. Applications are evaluated based on eligibility criteria compliance and submission timing, given the first-come-first-served allocation method. The program builds on previous success, having distributed nearly $12,500 to 13 bait and tackle stores across Minnesota during its previous funding round from April 2022 through June 2024, demonstrating strong participation from rural and urban retail establishments throughout the state. For program inquiries and application questions, retailers can contact the MPCA grants office at grants.pca@state.mn.us or reach Steven Yang directly at steven.yang@state.mn.us or 651-757-2702. The agency provides comprehensive support throughout the application process and offers additional resources about the environmental benefits of lead-free fishing tackle for both wildlife protection and angling effectiveness.

Check online list of manufacturers and retailers of lead-free tackle for product ideas and suppliers, but you can find your own sources. Applications accepted on rolling, first-come-first-served basis.