HIGH RIVER, ALBERTA - Just call him the "Two Time Champion" as High River resident, Andy Vander Ploeg, (Plew) has claimed his second consecutive "Ford Angler of the Year" title. Vander Ploeg, who owns and operates "The Master Angler" charter/guiding service out of High River says "Winning the first year was great!" "But it's even sweeter winning the second!" En route to the national title handed out by TSN's Canadian Sportfishing, Vander Ploeg also captured six of the ten Master Angler titles up for grabs along with six Minn Kota BIG FISH awards. That's an incredible 60% of all MASTER ANGLER awards!

Vander Ploeg says "When I'm not fishing, I'm thinking about fishing." "Even when I'm fishing, I'm still thinking about fishing!" Vander Ploeg fishes all over Western Canada, but his true love is dipping a line right here in Southern Alberta. "From the Bow River to Crawling Valley Reservoir, from the South Saskatchewan to Kananaskis Lakes.. And everything in between I've fished them all." Says Andy. Most of his Master Angler and Big Fish qualifiers came from waters right here in Southern Alberta, proving what Andy always says "You don't need big water to catch big fish."

If Andy's name sounds familiar that's because you may have seen him on TV as he's been a guest on both the "Fishing Alberta" show, as well as the "Dime Store Fisherman." Both seen in Canada on the Outdoor Life Network. He was also featured last Fathers Day on the A-Channels "Big Breakfast" up in Edmonton. Andy is also the subject of an article in the current issue of "North American Fisherman" magazine. Andy has also penned a few articles of his own for various sportfishing publications.

If you'd like the chance to meet "The Master Angler" make sure your in the sporting goods section of the Okotoks Wal-Mart this Friday (May 30th) from 7-9pm where Andy will be talking fishing, handing out tips and advice along with signing autographs.