Spool the line onto the reel. Run the end of the fishing line from the purchased spool through the rod ferrules, starting from the top, down to the reel. Run the line around the wire bail and tie a Palomar knot onto the reel's spool. Wind the handle on the fishing reel forward, spooling line from the purchased spool onto the fishing reel's spool. Keep some tension on the line to wrap the line tightly. Add a hook and/or weight to the end of the line. Leave several inches to a foot of line extended beyond the rod tip.

Hold the fishing rod in your right hand, if you are right-handed, at the rod grip above the reel. Your thumb should be resting on the top side of the grip.

Extend your right index finger and hook it around the fishing line, then pull it in and press the line firmly against the underside of the rod grip.

Flip the bail with your left hand, over to the other side of the reel so it is on your right side. The bail is a hinged and curved piece of wire that swings open and shut, and rotates to wrap the line around the spool.

Bend the right arm at the elbow, keeping your wrist in line with your forearm. The fishing rod should be raised so it is pointed up behind your head.

Face your body toward the point where you want to send the fishing line. Swing your right arm forward and down quickly to point the fishing rod at your target. During this forward cast, release the fishing line with your index finger. This allows the hook or weight to fly out into the water. The timing of this maneuver takes practice but can be picked up quickly.

Once the line has reached its target, allow the line to sink or begin your retrieve. Hold the rod with the right hand and grab the reel's handle with your left. Rotate the handle forward to begin a retrieve. The bail will flip closed during the first revolution, catching the line and wrapping it back onto the spool.