Automotive Repair Going Green...Fishing Next?

USSFN: 4/13/08 - (Beaumont, TX) - I heard this week from an automotive store manager that their industry is considering switching the material used in wheel weights to steel instead of lead.  There still have to be some bugs worked out of the initiative as normal steel would eventually rust.  Can you imagine the owner of a $2500 set of wheels putting on steel wheel weights?

Already the sporting goods industry has experimented and even mandated the use of steel instead of lead in some areas such as steel shot in waterfowl loads.  Could the fishing industry be targeted next for a conversion from lead to steel in fishing weights and weighted lures?  The automotive switch could affect those anglers that use the wheel weights to mold sinkers, jig heads and such.  I'm not sure how removable split shot would be if they were made out of steel.  Keeping in mind that steel doesn't weigh as much as lead, obviously, I wonder how much bigger a cannonball for a downrigger would have to be to match the same weight as a similar lead one.

It's an interesting concept, and one that we as responsible sportsmen should examine, but this possible switch would serve to drive up the cost of tackle.  Tackle companies would have to completely change their manufacturing processes.  Some of our favorite lures might have to be redesigned as a result.

If you would like to "weigh in" on this issue, I'll be happy to reprint responsible comments here.  Simply email your thoughts to jarec2001@hotmail.com. ~ Jim

Elijah's Cafes - A Southeast Texas Secret No More

USSFN: 2/17/08 - (Woodville, TX) - So you're heading to Sam Rayburn or Toledo Bend Reservoirs from the south and you decide to stop for lunch.  If you pass through Woodville, Kirbyville or Jasper you might want to take time to stop at an Elijah's Cafe.  The author did just that yesterday and was treated to some real down home good food.  Yesterday, I had to try their special which happened to be Chicken Spaghetti.  I had never tried it before, but I hope it's their Saturday special again.  It was great;  kind of like a Chicken Fettuccini Alfredo dish.  They have daily specials and authentic Southern side dishes.  And what's best is that they are easy on the wallet. ~ Jim