Ultralight spinning problem

I'm usually a fly fisherman, but because of a health problem that limits my ability to wade, I want to do some spin fishing for trout. I have a 30 year old ultralight spinning rod/reel combo, a gift that I never used. I put 2 pound test line on it, but every time I cast, I get incredible birds nest tangles. Did I put the line on wrong, is it the el cheapo reel, or is it just the nature of ultralight spin fishing?

I'd be willing to pend a few dollars for a new reel, if necessary. I might upgrade the rod too, but the one I have seems OK for the type of trout fishing that I am apt to do.

Sounds like you put it on backwards. Also, reeling in slack line while float fishing can cause a lot of birdsnests. If you extend your index finger so the line ticks your fingertip it will usually keep the line from getting too loose on the spool. Overfilled spools will birdsnest a lot too.

Here is my take on this.. I had a Tica Cetus spooled with 4lb.. Same thing happened.. Tried all of the above suggestions and still trouble.. Switched to the next larger in size of reel in Shimano and spooled with 6lb and aint looked back.. I think the reel spool was way to small for distance casting with light jigs is the reason I had all the trouble.. John

overfilling a reel with line will usually cause problems. also, try not to reel in slack line, when you do this you will get loops in your line and on your next cast you will get a nice birdnest tangle.

also, do what FishinGuy suggested, as the line hits your index finger it will take the loops out the line so you wont end up with tangles as often.

Good suggestions so far. Try an extra limp line. Might help.