Inducted: 2016
Billy is the twin brother of fishing legend Bobby Murray. While his brother is best known for his tournament prowess, Billy was making a name for himself behind the scenes within the industry. Murray’s fingers have been all over the bass fishing world. In 1975 Murray formed and organized the Bass Fishing Institute. Murray traveled the country with a select group of anglers educating tens of thousands on bass fishing. As part of that effort, Murray created a 30-feet long traveling aquarium commonly referred to as the “Fishing Simulator.” Aquariums like these are still being used today and are a common part of the fishing world. Murray, an employee of PRADCO for almost three decades, also was instrumental in designing many of today’s popular lures. In addition, he served as cameraman/producer for 10 years on the “Fishin’ Hole” show in its early years of becoming the longest running outdoor show on television. In the 1990s, Murray, along with his brother Bobby, starred in their own television show “The Guide’s,” that aired on ESPN. Later Billy and Bobby hosted “People Who Fish” on The Outdoor Channel for seven years.