has the magnetic control, make sure its set correctly. if it was windy yesterday, dont practice first-time in the wind. this can mess you up. you need a tad of experience in the wind. and, i always started with about 2 1/2-3 ft already out and kind of "rainbow" it out till you can bullet it out there. when you start the cast, in my experiences, freespool it until it is halfway to where you want it to be, then THUMB CONTROL!!! be sure to stop itas soon as it hits the water