Please Help Thinking About Taking The Step To Tournament Fishing.

[Larry C.]

My buddy and I have been talking about dabbling in a tournament. He has boat and we live in South Florida. We want to compete as a team. Do we have to join and local Bass associations? Can anyone steer me on how to get started???

[Bassintheweeds]

your best bet would to either join a club if you are looking for some commitment and more low key tournaments. The best way to find a club that fits for you is to go to a meeting and network with the current members to get a gauge on what the club is about, whether that be fun or more serious.

The other route you could do is fish an open, which anyone can fish. The entry fees are typically higher but it gives you a taste of what a tournament is like. The competition is usually more stiff at these but have a greater payout.Your best bet would be to connect with a tournament fisherman if you know any or google the lake you want to fish and look for opens. Usually these have a team format which is what you are looking for.

[WIGuide]

As mentioned, you can look for opens. Some may be higher priced, but if you look hard enough or ask around you might be able to find a smaller one. Otherwise get in touch with some clubs in the area. They may allow you to fish in one of theirs. Usually they will charge you a bit more than their entry, or make you pay the club due to fish. It's also worth asking around because some clubs will let you join their club while paying a lower due the first year.

[Larry C.]

Will research opens in my area. Thanks guys!

[SamTheHam]

Will research opens in my area. Thanks guys!

Larry did you find any tournaments in south florida?

[Larry C.]

Larry did you find any tournaments in south florida?

Well I found a website but haven't studied it much.

http://www.flbasstournaments.com/May-2014.html