As a boy from North Carolina my father Joel Richardson SR. my mother, Brenda, and grandfathers Kirby Richardson and Fred Smith always made  time to take me fishing.  As I grew older their teachings left no farm pond un-fished. 

Bass fishing Expos became popular when I was about 10 years old and that is where I got my first taste of competition with a rod and reel.  Berkley sponsored a Speed Cast competition which gave away $1000.00 worth of Berkley products!  I was runner up the first year and went on to win the next 3 years.  Berkley representatives asked me if I would step down as champion to let another caster have a chance.  Ironically the timer for the speedcasting contest became my fishing hero Larry Nixon who inspired me to become a professional fishermen. 

My competitive edge lead me to win several local events on my home lake Kerr Reservoir (locally known as Bugg's Island) where I have been a guide for 10 years.  My desire to challenge myself at a higher level led me to the Red-Man Trail where I had immediate success qualifying for the Red-Man All-American 3 years running. 

Winning the Red-Man on Bugg's Island in 1996 and 1999 Points Championship along the way.  Finally my dream came true on the Wal-Mart FLW Tour qualifying for 5 straight Championships and winning the $100,000.00 season opener on Lake Okeechobee in 1999.  As for now  I continue to travel to the rivers and lakes of America with my wife Jackie who supports me in fishing the Wal-Mart FLW Tour.

It is my goal to be the best fishermen I can be, a valuable asset to my sponsors and a positive influence to the new generation of bass anglers.

Joel G. Richardson

Touring Professional Angler