The things I always say to a beginner in my boat is to just start soft. Start with 20' casts, then 30, and so on. Also, let the rod do the work. Don't try to swing like a baseball bat. The adjuster knob on the handle side will also help. It should slowly let out line with your lure hanging from the end of your rod. You will have to adjust it for each lure's weight. When the lure is about to hit the water, stop the spool with your thumb. Otherwise, the lure will stop, but the line will want to keep coming out, causing a bird's nest. Good luck!