My figure 8 comment should have been "with a longer leader than what the lure mfr recommends". In my case, 7-9' vs 4-6 per the directions on the Betts variety pack packaging.

I tried making the casts with more of a side arm or angled away from vertical position, and that helped to give some spacing, but still, that hook/lure whizzing by is different than using regular spinning gear. I wear glasses anyways, and did have a hat on, but thinking about a full face motorcycle helmet (happen to have a couple in the closet)

Are the words "leader" and "tippet" interchangeable? I stated leader in my questions, and your last response you used the word tippet.

Again, thanks for the help.