I whacked the eels when I first learned to use them in the 70s. Once I got used to handling them I found it to be unnecessary. I don't use ice either. I keep it simple. A paper towel to grab the eel, hook it and catch a bass. Well, at least the first two steps are guaranteed.
FWIW, I don't have a problem with eels snagging bottom either (or other live bait). When snagged, I just give a moment of slack line so the eel can unsnag itself, then a quick pull to get it out of there.
|