On the coast of Cabo del Este, a group of young students has begun to make its mark in the sport fishing industry with a project focused on lure making. This is “Not Bad Gallos,” a company that originated within the Autonomous University of Baja California Sur (UABCS), which develops fly patterns designed for local species.
According to Jassiel Roberto Padilla Arce, the project manager, the initiative aims to establish itself within the fly fishing segment, a technique that involves using lightweight lures that imitate insects or natural prey, which are cast using a specialized line to attract fish.
“We are entering the fly fishing market, creating handcrafted fly patterns specifically for fishing for local species here in Baja California Sur,” he explained.
Currently, these lures are being tested in the community of Los Barriles, where they have also begun selling them.
Antonio Verduzco, the project’s fishing guide, explained that this technique, traditionally associated with freshwater, has evolved for use in the sea, expanding the target species. “What fly fishing really aims for is to catch all pelagic species, such as dorado, tuna, and marlin, but specifically in Cabo del Este, the roosterfish,” he noted.
The company’s origins trace back to recreational activities among friends. “Three years ago, we just went fishing with friends, and as time went on, we learned and started offering a service,” he commented. Currently, the team consists of five members.
In addition to technical development, the project incorporates sustainability practices. “The material we use is synthetic fibers made from recycled plastics. We aim to imitate the colors of the roosterfish’s food,” Verduzco explained, describing the design of the lures, which have characteristics similar to small sardines to replicate the behavior of their natural prey. These lures can be used for both shore fishing and boat fishing.
One of the main challenges has been obtaining materials, since, according to the team members, they are not readily available on the national market. “Normally, everything is brought to us from the United States, or we order it by courier from China or Japan; it’s difficult, so we look for alternative solutions,” he mentioned.
Regarding their product line, they currently offer two options: a single fly designed for shore fishing and a two-piece pack, with prices ranging from 149 to 179 pesos.
Alejandro Arce Angulo, from the finance and planning department, explained that the project is in its initial phase. “It’s a developing microenterprise, in a market introduction stage, starting with the hooks,” he indicated. For the moment, their products are sold at the Hotel Playa del Sol in Los Barriles, with the intention of expanding to local stores and other locations.
From the marketing department, Antonio González Lucero emphasized that the target audience shares characteristics with the region’s lifestyle. “It’s an audience that values natural and organic products; it’s not about flashy advertising, but about building a connection,” he explained.
He added that there is a significant presence of foreign customers, mainly Americans, who visit the area attracted by the sport fishing conditions and the coastal environment.
Despite the limitations inherent in a student-run microenterprise, the team maintains growth expectations. Felipe López Facio, from the finance and planning department, noted that one of their objectives is to diversify their offerings. “In five years, we plan to launch more products on the market, such as outdoor clothing, lures, and other fishing-related items,” he mentioned.
Source: oem
