Keep in mind I'm a bank fisherman.

I'm using an Abu Garcia Cardinal SX10 with 6 pound test monofilament.  In this instance (but it happens with other light lures) I was using a Zoom Worm that is "Super Salt Plus" Finesse.  It doesn't say on the package but they're less than six inches long.  I texas rigged (no weight) to a Gomakatsu Offset Shank Worm EWG Size 2/0.  My method is to cast, let is settle, twitch the rod two or three times, then reel in slack.

My problem is, because there isn't much weight on the line, and there is no water resistance (from like a crank bait) when reeling in slack, my line spools VERY loosely on my spool.  After no more than a second cast, sometimes even the first cast, it's so loose that I either get knots, or the line goes under the spool and between it and the gear housing, or won't cast properly.  What can I do to resolve this issue?  Is it a technique problem? A reel problem?

My second problem I believe is related to the reel itself, so I wanted to ask.  When I reel super slow, it makes a "clicking" noise.  Is that normal?  I never remember an open-face reel doing that as a kid.  Also, after reeling awhile my handle loosens up.  How do I fix that? 

Thanks for any help!

 

 

Getting a new reel may help somewhat. The 10 size reel may be a little small for what you are doing. Are you flipping the bail over by hand?

I second closing the bait by hand and ensure that you have tension on your line before you start your retrieve.  If you have a limp line in the water, just place the line between your fingers to create tension before you begin reeling.

try the carolina rig with a 3/0 round bend offset hook trigged with a zoom fitnesse worm - palomar or improvised clinch knot - 12/24" leader - barrel swivel - any kind of weight that slides up and down the line, this will be natural and better fix your issues.

 

As far as the handle loosening up, on the other side of the reel exactly opposite of the handle there is a knob that tightens/loosens the handle. Just hold that in place and crank the handle. It will tighten right up.