Thought I had debris in the way the first time I tried closing the cover.  Put the reel down for the day in frustration.  Tried a couple days later with a little more patience and still can’t get the latch to slide to closed position.  
 

What am I doing wrong?   This shouldn’t be that complicated.  

Loosening the spool tension knob a turn or two should help.

If the cover isn't in the correct orientation it will not close. The ear must be pointing up. There is a rubber o ring that makes the fit very snug so you must press down with some force. Also as suggested loosen the tension knob on the other side to allow more movement of the spool shaft. It is tricky the first time trying to get it back in place.  

Also check to make sure one or more of the cent. sliding doohickey thingies (technical term) isn't extended out too far.

Outstanding guys.  Simple fix that I wouldn’t have tried.  To think I was about to return to Cabelas.  Much appreciated.