I don't think this is anything new--I think it's just the Department of Revenue sending around a "clarification" of what's taxable and what's not. If I'm not mistaken, I've always been charged sales tax when I've bought a bag of ice from most of the tackle shops around here. Also when I've bought it from the quick-mart type places.
Most people don't even look at their Stop&Shop register receipt to see what they've been charged tax on
You go into Red Top and buy a pair of ankle boots--no tax--they're considered shoes and clothing.
Waders--tax--they're "fishing tackle".