threats from Bermudians.

Mr. Patrick Moss, from Nova Scotia, says he fears a knife attack. He says locals have told him: "You Canadian guys are taking our fish. You'd better watch your back.'' But the skipper of the ship, the Stephen B , has branded Mr. Moss a troublemaker and praised Bermudians for the way they have welcomed visiting fishermen.

The Stephen B is one of seven Canadian boats given Government licences to fish inside Bermuda's 200-mile exclusion zone.

They are searching the high seas for species like yellowfin and bigeye tuna that could expand the local industry.

Government has arranged for two Bermudians to work on each boat. It hopes locals will take up longlining if the Canadians find it is possible off the Island.

But some local fishermen have attacked the experiment, saying Bermudian boats should have exclusive rights to local waters.

Mr. Moss said he felt intimidated when going for a drink in the Island. "Some Bermudians are the best people I've met,'' he said.

"The two local guys I've been working with are nice people.

"But I'm leaving because of the controversy. It's too much to handle, it's too much stress. I've got a wife and children.'' He said he was also disappointed that the Stephen B , had not yet been on a proper trip.

The boat is at Penno's Wharf. St. George's, sorting out problems with its electronic fish-location system.

"I've got to make a living,'' Mr. Moss added. "I'm not going to do it on this ship.'' Skipper Mr. Russell Nickerson said Mr. Moss was "just trouble''.

"I took him on on a trial basis for one trip. He'll be out of here.

"I've been accepted better here than I have in my own country.

"We've had `A1' treatment from Bermudians. They're friendly and if you ask them anything they're helpful.'' He praised local crew members Mr. Bobby Lambe and Mr. Jason Payne.