First few times I tried to flyfish, I couldn't get the setup to cooperate. It wasn't casting, it was flailing. It even seemed like hard work. Finally realized I was trying to force the rod into submission and I wasn't trying to throw out a 3/8 oz spinnerbait. Decided to try nice and easy and smooth, don't beat the thing to death. It's amazing how much better results are obtained with less exertion. By no means am I a good caster, but really feel improvement will keep coming. Hope this helps.