would i be better off with a multiplier reel

A QUICK ANSWER NO if you want to spend your time reeling in and untangling birds nests instead of fishing then go for one but untill you got the hang of catching fish then stick with a fixed spool

another good reason to come to the match on the pier if you dont want to fish you are welcome to come down and just be there to see what tackle others are using and help out as well

I agree! I'm sticking with my fixed spools.

Is it a brand new reel? Might need to play with the drag/ clutch settings.

Is the "fixed spool" turning when you wind in ( it shouldn't be)

Pulling the rod back and then winding against slacker line ( not too slack) takes a bit of
strain off the gears on the retrieve.

The sand eats them all in the end.