Reel Seat Issue

[WaffleJaw]

So a few weeks ago i had my lighting rod out on the pond. My worm got hit by a 1/2 lber and when i set the hook..my reel came flying off the seat
I managed to get it back on and reel the fish in... apparently the screw lock (or whatever you call it) keeps popping loose....I tighten it,and then one more turn makes it pop loose again...I'm not gorilla fisting it or anything..but anytime I set a hook, it pops loose and the reel becomes loose or flies off..
Upon inspection,nothing seems damaged, thread wise... infact it screws on straight till it hits the reel's foot...then gets a little crooked.
I tried teflon tape thinking the threads arent deep enough ,but after 6 wraps.. I still have the same problem.

Now I'm considering using zip-ties across the feet... the rod is in impeccable condition except for that.
But I wanted to see if anyone has any other ideas,or solutions?