You may want to rest your thumb at a slight angle on the spool instead of pressing the very flat of it on the line. This will give you more control over the flow of the line during the cast. [3] X Research source

If you are casting with a long-handled baitcasting rod of the kind used in saltwater fishing, you’ll want to use your opposite hand as a fulcrum from which to pivot the rod as you cast.

It’s important to avoid heavy brush or your lure may get stuck when you bring the rod forward to cast. If this happens, the entire spool of line can get tangled (called a bird’s nest) and destroyed.