Conventional Reels Question

[MarkT]

The spool tension knob should be set so the spool can barely shimmy left/right. For cast control, when you let the weight fall, the spool should stop when the weight hits the ground and not keep spinning. It shouldn't be set to keep the weight in the air. When the bait hits the water, stop the spool with your thumb. Also keep your thumb lightly on the spool when casting and apply more force if you feel the line starting to raise (a birdsnest beginning to form),

[alanw]

Watch out for that thumb burn!

[tomahawk]

I agree with the Skrilla, start with the lob style and get used to the release point. Move the rod in a big arc, when you are learning it is best to turn your body sideway so the rod casting motion is parallel to your shoulders rather than perpendicular. MarkT's point about hovering the thumb is an excellent tip. I would also offer up that if the line is wet you are less likely to get thumb burn. I will usually drop out some line and reel it back on nice and tight before the first cast of the day. When I was learning I burnt grooves into my thumb in the first cast of a trip and it kind of ruined my day.

[hiramehunter]

Is it spooled with braid? If so do you have any mono backing on it or electrical tape? If the weight drops but the spool doesnt turn then that's probably your problem.

[ccacher1]

Originally Posted by hiramehunter

Is it spooled with braid? If so do you have any mono backing on it or electrical tape? If the weight drops but the spool doesnt turn then that's probably your problem.

No braid, just mono. I did have that problem on my cardiff though, haha.