Some rod/line combinations work better for some people than others however Practice is the key. But also investigate working with a good instructor. A good instructor can quickly help identify bad habits or flaws in your technique so you will be able to practice more effectively. One way to find one is through the FFF certified instructor listings. You may need to travel a bit. I see there are a number of instructors listed in Albaqueque. None in west Texas. A person doesn't have to be FFF certified to be a good instructor, but the FFF does have the online resource to help find an instructor. Fly shops or clubs are another source for instructor references. Another option is to buy one of the better instructional DVDs - or even two or three. Or even You Tube - but I see a lot of not so good instruction there as well as some good instruction.