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DORADOS ONLY ON TOP WATER LURES !!!

Water level is very low. Traditionally when this happens action somewhat slows. Not any longer. We are experiencing unprecedented explosive top water angling when the bottom rocks begin to surface. Mid-sized Dorados (10-15 lbs) are making the waters boil with action every day and all day long (check the images below).

A 46 pounder made the day for John Patrick Hughes last Sunday (see picture below).

Why are we experiencing this fantastic bonanza? We firmly believe that we are harvesting the results of the Cooperative association model (“converting netters to catch and release”), which we mentioned last week. This is the living proof that the sustainability and ecological dimensions of the project are being proved correct. Fish density, fish dimensions are in constant positive evolution. Sport fishing recorded results undeniably are confirming this fact.

Reproducing this model in other areas seems only logical. The potential of the general application of the Coop. association model by several, or all, outfitters (thinking in the Amazon basin) would prove to be enormously beneficial to everyone involved and the ecosystem. The incidence in fish populations with the intelligent application of this model and the synergies it would create, exceed the scope of these lines. River Plate Anglers will try to promote the idea in the Amazon region.

Last weekend River Plate Anglers organized an off-site workshop in the Horacio Quiroga Hotel (by the Salto Dam dorado operation) with the objective of analyzing further developments in the evolution of the Coop model in place here and the feasibility of a success transfer of this modus-operandi to other areas where River Plate is planning to start operating.

A multidisciplinary approach to the analysis was executed through different focus groups, taking advantage of the diversity of the participants. We had attendants coming from our HQ in Montevideo from the admin., legal, marketing areas, etc. hosts were represented, as well as guides and agents, including of course our partners of COPESA (Salto Fishermen Coop). Luckily enough we had the additional pleasure of having the presence of two Brazilian agents that provided their valuable experience and insights on this growing market. All participants also had the chance of enjoying great fishing, since conditions last weekend were optimal (see photos).

Final conclusions were presented under the leadership of Luis Brown and we want to share with you through this brief report some highlights.

• The Coop. working model has been a proven success in several dimensions.
• The Coop. model implies a greater commitment of the actors, presenting a perceivable service quality improvement that goes beyond what we could call "tip expectancy". Ownership feeling enhances commitment.
• The Coop. model ensures sustainability. Coop members experience a quantum leap in their life quality and expectantions (in this case from a survival fishing economy to a sport fishing tourism economy), this is a key motivational element to ensure that members are fully engaged in every aspect that sees to the sustainability of the project. They will protect areas from pollution, fom depredation, etc.
• Coop. members enter the evolutionary fast track, their minds remain open to new ideas that are in line with the main project (the cooperation of the members of COPESA with the scientific authorities of the DINARA by recording the catch and marking a few was mentioned as an example).
• Coop. members care to train their own (young) in every aspect that ensures the seamless operation of the organization, (young ones are learning English language, are studying tourism, etc.)
• The Coop. model enables to integrate other collateral businesses to the general operation. e.g. maintaining the fishing equipment, lure production, engaging tourists in other activities (bird watching, flower finding, etc. ). The spill out of the main business to other businesses is undisputable, the general economy of the community grows organically.
• The Coop. model presents itself as an optimal structure to be used in any area with a similar situation as the one found in Salto a few years ago. Benefits are perceived immediately and in the long run the local community experiences a very positive evolution to a sustainable model that enhances every aspect of their life and expectations towards the future.
• The Coop. model, deals with local residents with a very limited cultural background. Authorities are not always in condition or willing to present the advantages and potential of such a structure.
• Ideally the Coop. model may be presented by River Plate Anglers, that will associate with this same coop. under an environment of the utmost transparency and highest ethical standards ensuring the proper implementation of a fair deal. Rive Plate Anglers has the track-record and experience to assist the local residents in the creation and activation of a working Coop. structure, not only in its staff but also in its agents, its existing Coop. partners, its suppliers, etc.
• Considering the above River Plate Anglers should consider replicating this modus operandi to other areas.

Luis Brown finalized the meeting undertaking to consider the strategic move to replicate this successful experience and obtained the full commitment of all the participants to cooperate in any future initiative on this regard.