I'm pretty sure those fines and penalties are for companies and corporations and not for individuals fishing with a lead jig on a first offense.
I also think that if your lead jig has an epoxy coating, you have a good argument in court.
Tree huggers are wussies and are usually high on Morning Glory seeds or some other legal crap. Do you really think they would want to interfere with a half hung-over 'Bama Redneck tryin' to catch a Crappie dinner? I hope they have a pair of water ski's strapped to their butt if they do... because they're goin' for a ride!