September 6, 2014 — The disputed “gray zone” around Machias Seal Island has become a bone of contention again for Maine lobster fishermen who set traps in the region.
Canadian fishermen also ply the disputed waters, and there are more of them this year, which does not sit well with Down East lobstermen.
Maine officials also have received a few complaints about fishing in the area, although the chief of the Marine Patrol Bureau downplayed their significance.
Canada operates a lighthouse on the island. However, both countries claim the island, said Col. Joe Fessenden, head of Maine’s Marine Patrol. Under a written agreement between the two countries, Canadian fisherman can work in the area under the laws and regulations of their country, and Maine fishermen can work under applicable state laws and regulations, Fessenden explained Thursday.
Machias Seal Island, about 20 acres, is located about 12 miles off the coast of Cutler. The “gray zone” encompasses about 70 square miles around the island.
Two fishermen who set traps in the region say there are more Canadians working the waters this year.
Read the full story at the Bangor Daily News