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As an ex-pro fisherman turned somewhat treehugger, covering the subject of fishing with hooks is a sensitive one. I acknowledge in my article on greener fishing the cruelty aspect.

However, hook fishing has been around for thousands of years and will be with us for long time to come. It's good to keep in mind also that in many ways, many fishing folk are like responsible hunters - avid conservationists - as it's in their best interests to see species and ecosystems protected and sustainably managed.

There are millions of recreational anglers around the world and if something can be done to reduce the associated environmental impact of the pursuit, it's a good thing.

By environmental impact, I'm specifically referring in this instance to the equipment used in fishing, particularly lead.

As mentioned in my article on greener fishing, during my angling days I was responsible for losing hundreds, if not thousands of lead sinkers in aquatic habitats. Lead is often used in jigs also. I never gave these issues much thought.

According to Jason Simmons from Hookem Lures, raptors such as the American bald eagle, Andean condor, Honey buzzard, king vulture, and California condor can suffer from secondary lead poisoning after eating a lead contaminated fish or waterfowl.

Hookem Lures are the first patented fishing lure that uses a glass gem instead of a lead as its weight. Jason says the solid glass head lures are extremely durable; able withstand impact on rocks and other hard surfaces often encountered in fishing.

The glass head reportedly has a slower, far more appealing movement as it sinks and wiggles as it moves through the water; enhancing the sparkle produced by the glass.

Hookem Lures are the patented creation of Jason's father and are hand-made in the company's workshop in Tennessee.

A couple of suggestions to make these even "greener" - but they may already be features or in the pipeline - it's just not clear on the site: making the lures using recycled glass and using non/low toxic paints and adhesives.

Still, even without these features, Hookem Lures seem like a solid step forward in reducing the environmental impact of fishing - and they can be purchased at a very reasonable price too!

Learn more about Hookem Lures.