Of the some 40-esteemed members of Modesto Castmasters fishing club the one and only from Sonora who participates ? 62-year-old Richard Knigge ? was awarded 2007 Angler of the Year.

"I had to really work at it," said Knigge of his accomplishment. "Typically people miss tournaments, and I made an effort to make each and every tournament and place in them."

The Modesto Castmasters club holds monthly tournaments in area lakes that include the Delta, McClure, Don Pedro, Melones, New Hogan and several others. The season starts in January and ends in October, where a Tournament of Champions is played in November.

To win the award, Richard was awarded points each tournament he placed in. He took first place in two, second in another two, and 5th place or better in the remaining. read more