You are correct on the wording of the law. But it is very specific. You are reading between lines and you can't do that. It specifically says spinnerbaits and buzzbaits are exempt. But it says lead headed jigs with a hook are illegal. They tell you buzzbaits and spinnerbaits are ok. It's not open for interpritation.

 

Henry Fristik

GYLW

Ok mossboss, let me see if I can make this a bit clearer. Let's first pull up the definitions of what we are discussing directly from Regulation (CMR 321 4.01(4):

 

Regulation (CMR 321 4.01(1) Definitions:

 

Lead Jig means any lead-weighted hook which has a mass of less than one ounce.

 

Lead Sinker or Lead Weight means any sinker or weight made from lead and which has a mass of less than one ounce. The term lead sinker shall not include any other sinkers, weights, fishing lures or fishing tackle including, but not limited to, artificial lures, hooks, weighted flies, and lead-core or other weighted fishing lines.

 

Ok, so looking at that it clearley defines what a Lead Jig is, you can't read into it by saying spinnerbaits and buzzbaits are lead weighted hooks. They are more than just a hook with a weight. So maybe that will clearify that. Chatterbaits, of the category of a bladed jig would also be considered a lure not a jig, as they are more than just a weighted hook. Loons don't eat spinnerbaits, buzzbaits or chatterbaits because of the additional parts on the bait. But a loon could eat a jig with a skirt just as easily as without. That is the reason for this law. The science on this is not exact however and both sides are arguing if this is truly a problem for loons or something made up by tree huging hippies.

 

The second definition is also straight forward. Let me know if this helps.

 

Henry Fristik

GYLW