Spool tension only needs to be tight enough to prevent side to side motion of the spool. Max brakes is not a bad idea either. The brakes will help if you can't use your thumb.

I took a jig fishing lesson from Marc Mitchell, and it helped me a ton. He can give you some pointers that will really help you.
Marc showed me that the reel is rotated 90 degrees to where it is actually on its side when you release the jig. He had me hold the jig like you were going to put it in your watch pocket.

I�ll go with both but I am better than I used to be

As the lure approaches your target begin lifting you rod tip to allow lure to quietly enter the water. It also has allowed enough extra line to allow the lure to fall straight down and you can engage your reel as it is sinking.

The pitch is no more than just a swing cast allowing lure to swing away from you. I have seen some people grab lure and put a bow in the rod and try to sling shot the lure instead and almost everytime leads to a backlash.

How much does a lesson cost?

Where are you located, Isaiah?

Do exactly what Capt. Bryan said and you won't need a lesson. Simple as eating popcorn.

Stand on back porch or steps and practice too. I taught myself when I was young and practiced every day from a pier of porch.

Emphasis on the "Now make adjustments" part. Everyone has different setting they like to use. Start here, keep practicing, and you will find what works best for you.

Here I was giving my setup away....and tonight, on a really good jig bite, I went to skip a jig and nose dived the bait. I have the mother of all backlashes. I just put the rod back in the box.

I like in Mckinney.

I live in Mckinney.

I would say both. It's not the bait that causes you to backlash.

trying too hard. dont force the cast.. gently try casting and see if that cures the issue. my son does the same thing until i remind him to slow down and just ease the cast.