Fish stories are not always full of exaggerations. John Mameamskum's story is for real. And he dreams of conquering the world with Ecolure, an invention that will please both fishermen and environmentalists.


When you're as experienced a fisherman as John Mameamskum, you know the importance of spoons that are attached to hooks. If the gear is not just so, the fisherman might as well hang up his rod: the fish won't bite. The color, weight and aerodynamics of these lures have been extensively studied to attract a maximum number of fish. But... Three years ago, while on a fishing trip, John Mameamskum found that the spoons available on the market were not efficient. They are too light, and their color wears off too quickly. “There are simple solutions to complex problems. However, I searched for a complex solution to a simple problem”, says the Director General of the Naskapi Nation of Kawawachikamach, near Schefferville.

His invention is called Ecolure. Made of transparent plastic, the Ecolure covers the surface of the spoon. Consequently, it protects the color and extends the useful life of metal lures. In addition, the plastic (cover) reflects light — which attracts fish — and provides improved aerodynamics. But above all, the Ecolure is ecologically innovative. Since it increases the weight of the spoon, it eliminates the need to attach the little lead weights that are normally used to weight a line. These lead weights often detach and end up on the bottom, which, in the long term, may create environmental problems. The improvement is very important in the eyes of this Naskapi fisherman who insisted on using the prefix “Eco” in the name of his invention.

In addition to his environmental concerns, John Mameamskum wants to create employment for Native people in Kawawachikamach. He plans to commence production of the Ecolure in mid-September. Distribution agreements have already been concluded with some Quebec stores. Other should soon follow.

A friend of John Mameamskum for over 25 years, Stephen M. Lesser works as an accountant in Pierrefonds. He knows little about fishing but is convinced that the product will sell. He contributed to the business plan of Ecolure Inc, the company that will market the Ecolure. Stephen lesser says he wants to start with conquering the Canadian and American markets, but would like eventually to sell the Ecolure all over the world. “ I see no limits, I'm even thinking about e-commerce!” said he enthusiastically.

Ecolure Inc.'s patent-pending invention won the award of the First Nations Business Association within the framework of the Quebec Entrepreneurship Contest. This award, presented at a gala held on June 21, (2001) recognizes the quality of Native entrepreneurship.