Sakonnet Point fisherman traps a rare ‘calico” lobster

By Ted Hayes

Gary Mataronas Jr., who fishes off the 50-foot Night Prowler out of Sakonnet Point, brought an exceedingly rare find ashore Monday morning: A mottled yellow and red “calico” lobster that some online sources say is a one in 30 million catch.

His father, Gary Mataronas Sr., helped his son unload the catch Monday morning and instantly spotted the calico, nearly two pounds, from among the rest of the catch as he helped the crew unload.

“It was pretty striking,” he said.

Mataronas Sr. said he’s seen calicos before, but none as striking as this. His son isn’t a stranger to rare lobsters either — a few years ago he trapped a blue lobster in his pots and ended up donating it to the University of Rhode Island.

“That’s the thing about fishing,” the elder Mataronas said. “When you