I'm not surprised this happened...I know how it feels like to be of asian decent and out on the lakes in a smaller boat (canoe, 12 or 14 footer). While I agree that there was no specific mention of race, it doesn't take a rocket scientist to figure out why they were singled out and preyed on.
I doubt the cottager would approach the boat if they were Americans (who pretty much take out all the panfish they catch...on my lake anyways).
Sad.