Lead Fishing Weights: Benefits, Alternatives & Safety

Lead is commonly used in fishing weights because of its high density. Lead has a density of 11.34 grams per cubic centimetre, making it one of the densest metals. This density gives lead weights a rapid sinking rate, which is important for getting the bait or lure to the desired depth quickly. Lead weights are also relatively inexpensive and easy to manufacture. However, lead is a toxic metal, so some countries have restrictions on its use in fishing weights. Alternative materials for fishing weights include steel, iron, tungsten, and bismuth.