Howdy Justin,You should definitely check our club out, I think it would have a lot to offer you...
Here are some answers to your questions:
You don't need a boat! We do have a program for new members called the AmBASSador program, and it is there to help new members get out on the water and start learning more about bass fishing. Or... to have you teach us more about bass fishing!
To fish in a tournament, you need to be a member, and you need to pay the $20 entry fee. If you don't have a boat, you will need to pair up with another boater/member to fish with. That is not usually a problem, and I can't remember anyone ever being left on shore.
If you do join, a bit of advice for you:
That guy has the funniest accent I've ever heard, and I even hear he likes to fish for CARP!!!
Hope to meet you at the next meeting!
Chris