Two things should help you solve the bird's nest problem.

First, set the spool tension knob. Adjust it for each lure by clicking the thumb bar and watching the descent of the lure. If it drops fast, more spool tension is needed. The lure should drop at a slow, steady rate. As you get used to the reel, you'll probably back off the tension knob and won't check it at all.

Second, don't try to muscle the cast. Don't cast hard...start by just trying short casts with little physical effort. If you've got things screwed down too tight, this will be tough. Try to adjust the centrifugal brakes and the spool tension knob so that you can cast maybe 50 feet without trying. Then you can work on coordinating your thumb and the reel.

Also, you should be aware that casting into the wind is the sure way to backlash, especially at first.

Good luck,

Keith