The Recall Desk
HighCPSC·05155·Announced 2005-04-13

Zebco Recalls Children's Fishing Poles Due to Lead Paint Hazard

Zebco is recalling approximately 1.5 million children's fishing poles because the paint on the rods contains lead, which is toxic if ingested by young children.

What this means for you

Real risk of harm even if no illness or injury has been reported yet. Stop using the product and follow the agency's guidance.

Our severity reasoning: The recall involves a risk-of-harm product (lead paint) where injury has not yet been reported, which aligns with the 'High' severity criteria for products with theoretical but significant health risks.

Plain-English summary

Zebco is recalling approximately 1.5 million children's fishing poles sold nationwide from August 2001 through March 2005. The recalled poles are brightly colored and feature cartoon characters such as SpongeBob SquarePants, Dora the Explorer, Tigger, and Rocket Power. The "ZEBCO" and "Floating Catch 'Em Kit" logos appear on the handles, with the exception of the Rocket Power poles, which feature a two-piece rod and were sold with sunglasses.

The recall is being conducted because the paint on the rods contains lead. Lead is toxic if ingested by young children and can cause adverse health effects. There have been no reports of injuries or illness associated with these poles; this voluntary recall is being conducted to prevent any possibility of injury.

Consumers should stop using the recalled fishing poles and contact Zebco for information on receiving a free replacement fishing pole. The poles were sold at discount department, sporting goods, and toy stores for between $9 and $13. Newer fishing poles with a date code on the rod near the handle are not included in the recall.

The recalled product

Product
Children's Fishing Poles
Category
Consumer Product — Toys & Games
Hazard

Distribution

Distributed nationwide across the United States.

Related recalls

Same hazard · lead exposure

See all →