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"On January 17, state Representative Paul Davis introduced H.P. 37/L.D.42, legislation that would prohibit the use of all “rubber” lures. The legislation seeks to ban “rubber” baits but does not define the term. Even so, the intent of the legislation is clear – to ban the soft baits that Maine anglers use every day. Technically, there are no “rubber” baits on the market as soft baits are made from various substances, none of which are rubber. The bill would even ban biodegradable soft baits currently available. The legislation does nothing to encourage further understanding of this perceived problem or to improve angler education on the use of soft baits."

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Dear Fellow Anglers,
During the last few weeks we at KeepAmericaFishing™ sent out emails regarding a bill in Maine that would ban the use of all soft baits. This legislation is now going to a working session of the Maine Joint Standing Committee on Inland Fisheries and Wildlife. In order [url "http://keepamericafishing.salsalabs.com/dia/track.jsp?v=2&c=Ao7Q5pFRD1XRtQVo1erF1P8CiezXPnOi"]to show just how many anglers across the country are concerned by this bill we ask that you sign our petition in a show of solidarity[/url]. This petition will be presented to the Committee so that they can see that banning soft baits not only affects their own residents and anglers but also anglers nationwide.
By signing the petition you are telling the Committee that you "do not approve of unfounded bans on soft baits. Arbitrarily banning widely used tackle such as this would have a tremendous impact on everyone from individual anglers to tackle manufacturers to state wildlife management agencies that protect our resources. Further study must be conducted and decisions must be based on sound science."

Join us on this issue. Whether Maine is far from you - or near - what happens there could happen in your state as well. [url "http://keepamericafishing.salsalabs.com/dia/track.jsp?v=2&c=m2px6ZPkkzt0bbJKIKVtlgQxGYHdZqc7"]Sign the petition today.[/url]