Way to go Bob!!! Everyone has started from step "0" and that is a given!!!
As far as birdnests on my baitcaster.... I work on it for five minutes or until I realize it is a lost cause. I don't get too many. I always carry a backup reel to slap on with hardly any time lost. Remember guys.. you spend money for gas plus your time is short on the river so why not be prepared for the worst!