Gangly...

Flipping is easier to do with a open faced spin reel..but with those giants GREEN as can be..I'd rather have a baitcaster..plus the button is easier to push if you have to..
You should be getting no birds nest..you strip about 12 foot of line when pitching and the reel is locked ..you are not casting of any kind..

Flipping is the same way..buy you are gently jigging a lure vertical...no casting what so ever..you have about 8 foot of line hanging out.

Water temp..not sure air was 70s

in still pits though on the north end..water temps will be warmer than the rest of the lake