Wanting to fish tournaments as co-angler

[hp0001]

About me: I am a 27 year old male. My grandfather taught me bass fishing from as far back as I can remember. I live to fish. As the descriptions says I am really wanting to start fishing local bass tournaments but with my current setup (Starcraft 16ft vhull + 40hp motor + Garmin 93sv) I don't think I'm properly equipped to compete against these guys with fast boats and ffs. I've been saving for ffs for some time but its been difficult and I just don't see it fitting in my budget this year unfortunately. I've fished every weekend possible spring, summer, fall, and even winter to try and prepare myself and work on techniques in different climates and environments. I spend every moment of my free time watching BassfishingHQ and fish the moment videos to learn as much as I possibly can and then take what I learned to the lake and practice. I mainly fish Kentucky Lake, Lake Barkley, and Lake of Egypt (IL) to practice as those are the 3 major lakes closest to me. I also enjoy fishing the tail end of the Cumberland River which has been very good to me for quality smallmouth. Catch and release fishing only.

Now that you've got a little bit of my background. I believe I've gotten to the point where I've learned a ton from youtube but I feel like I've hit a wall and I would really like to start fishing with other anglers, I know I've still got a lot to learn and I feel the best way to do that would be talking to and fishing with more experienced anglers. I checked around for bass clubs in my area but there isn't a whole lot of social events for me to introduce myself and meet other anglers. If anyone reading this fishes tournaments I'd love to hear any advice on how I can put myself out there. I'd be willing to do whatever necessary to get a foot in the door and learn more about the tournament world. I work in IT so if someone were to need a ride along camera/editing guy its right up my alley.

Thanks! :)

[Jet-A Bassin]

The Major League Fishing BFL tournaments in the LBL division will be the best for being a co-angler. They are all here & take off from either the Moors or, Kentucky Dam Marina.

[zbasser]

Welcome!

[Tim Powell]

BFL as a co-angler is a good option. I am not sure if the Paducah Bass Club is still up and running but they use to be a draw format.

[hp0001]

Thanks! I didn't know they did a draw for co-angler that's awesome. I figured it was just word of mouth. Do you know if you have to enter your name in person or can you doing online before the tournament?

[Tim Powell]

Thanks! I didn't know they did a draw for co-angler that's awesome. I figured it was just word of mouth. Do you know if you have to enter your name in person or can you doing online before the tournament?

For the BFL, you can register online or call MLF in Benton. I am unsure if Paducah Bass Club is still a thing, might have to shake some trees on that one.