Two different issues here.

First, for swim areas, you cannot fish in them if they are DEEP approved swim areas.

Sec. 15-121-B12. Vessel, vessel speeds and fishing restrictions regarding swim areas and boating access areas
(a) No person shall operate or allow the operation of a vessel inside markers demarcating a restricted swim area which has been authorized in writing by the commissioner. (b) No person shall operate or allow the operation of a vessel at a speed in excess of Slow-No-Wakewhen within one hundred feet of markers placed to designate a restricted swim area or boating access area which has been authorized in writing by the commissioner. (c) This section shall not apply to vessels used exclusively as lifeguard rescue boats. (d) No person shall fish inside the markers demarcating a restricted swim area that has been authorized in writing by the commissioner.

If you think someone has established their own swim area, or significantly expanded a swim area you can call the Boating Division in Old Lyme. They issue all the permits and can tell you if it's a permitted swim area. If it's not, they notify the homeowner that it must be removed (or reduced in size to the permitted size if they have a permit). You can reach them at 860-434-8638.

As far as Lake Zoar being restricted - Yes they had a permit and Yes they are allowed to close off a section of the lake under the authority of the permit.

Apparently there was a bit of a disconnect between Boating (who issues the Marine Event Permit) and Fisheries (who issues the bass tournament permit), resulting in the conflict.

Both Boating and Fisheries are aware of the conflict now and will be looking for similar situations in the future so as to notify any tournament participants.

If the situation is that you were fishing on your own and were on the lake before the marine event starts, they are required to have safety boats at the event that can get you through the area, all you need to do is wave them down and ask them to let you through during a lull in the event.