Lewisfishing covered things pretty well. A bass club is probably the best and cheapest option if you are just starting out tournament fishing and relatively new to fishing the bigger lakes. Most clubs you will pay 20-50 per tournament, exact rules and procedures vary by club. Realize that alot of clubs are heavy on non boaters right now with a rough economy, understand that some may turn you away when you inquire about joining, dont be offended or discouraged, a club with more non boaters than boaters will leave someone not going fishing every time.
Heres a few things to remember when you fish as a nonboater:
- Contribute to expenses- Most bass boats get about 2.5 mpg, kicking in some gas money is a courtesy, $20-40 for gas is usually the norm.
- Be respectful- Dont track mud in the boat, step on the seats, drop cigarette ashes on the carpet, spit tobacco juice everywhere, spill drinks or worm dye. When the boater is ready to crank up and move, be ready ASAP life jacket on and in the seat. If you go to a good spot and catch alot of fish, dont go telling everyone you know and posting it all over the internet. Finding an off the path spot where you can catch them good on public water takes alot of time and effort, dont ruin something he worked hard to find. Be on time.
- Realistic expectations- Just because the boater has a boat doesnt mean you will always have an excellent action packed day of catching fish like you see on Bassmasters, he isnt a professional guide, he might only get on the water once or twice a month. Truth is somedays you will fish all day and not get a bite or only catch one or two... thats fishing. Look at each day as learning and having fun.
- Travel light- Try to limit how much tackle you take to one bag and 4-7 rods. Any more will hinder more than it will help, especially in a smaller boat.