First, loosen the wingnut for the flag 2 to 3 turns, making sure the nut doesn't come off. then wiggle the flag pole and stand it up and tighten wingnut securely. FAILURE TO FOLLOW DIRECTIONS WILL VOID WARRANTY!!! There are 2 slots on the bottom of the tail, one deep slot for larger bait & 1 shallow slot for smaller bait. These slots can be filed deeper to hold larger bait from tripping flag. You can set the flag on the opposite side of the tail where there is no slot. For pan fish you do not have to set the flag, just turn the fish, either black, orange or edge towards you, so if it turns, you will be able to tell. this will have zero tension.