As for drag,your finger or palm will be it. Small fish I will use my index finger. Bigger,I will palm the pin. I also wet my hand for comfort from getting skin burn. There are guys that will say lock it down and put the boots to the fish,but I like my rod to much to hear the snap. I play them all out.
Once you get use to your outfit,you will know when and when not to put pressure on the fish.
Im still a rookie learning as well. Just posting what works for me.