Seeking info on inshore and offshore fishung tournaments

I am looking to speak with any fellow locals or non local that follows and/or participates regularly in inshore and offshore fishing tournaments in coastal alabama, Mississippi, Florida panhandle and/or southeast lousiana. As an avid inshore fisherman I am HIGHLY INTERESTED In learning as much as possible about the local tournament circles including offshore tournaments. Is their a association such as inshore fishing association that I should join to help pursue eventually fishing in tournaments? Is there a centralized online database or newsletter that I can subscribe to or monitor that will allow me to stay up to date on upcoming tourneys? Is there any experienced tournament fisherman that are willing to share basic information with an ambitious younger possible future newcomer about getting into tourney fishing ? Feel free to call or text 251-609-0998 if you'd prefer to keep responses off the forum or send me a pm.

Check this link for some of our larger tournaments:
Fishing Events - Gulf Shores/Orange Beach, Alabama

I know most of the tackle shops in our area will list tournaments along with many shops in P'cola. You can also check around at the marinas for tournament information also. I would start small with some of the smaller inshore tournaments to get your foot in the door.

I think mostly that you pay your entry fee and have at it any way you can in any of the tourneys.

THE most active (and successful) fishing club in the region is the Alabama Coastal Fisherman's Association (ACFA).
They meet @ Moe's BBQ in downtown Mobile the first Thursday of each month (Feb - Nov)
and have 8 club tournaments (with food provided at weigh ins), a year long Big Fish contest, and an end of the year awards banquet (all for $50 yearly fee).
More info @ ACFA
Note: the forum is down right now with some server issue, but check the newsletters for history and info.
These as many of THE best inshore fishermen (and women ;-) in southwest Alabama and a great bunch of folks to fish and party with!

I should know, I've been in club for the past 11 years ;-)