Answer
Use wet gloves, eel socks, or coarse salt to grip American eels for hooking—dry hands fail instantly. Hook through the jaw or use specialized rigs per local practice. Never leave live eels on hot pier planks; release unused bait responsibly per DNR guidance.
Sources: Maryland DNR · Visit Ocean City
Editorial visitor guidance for Ocean City, Maryland. Confirm current Town of Ocean City, Maryland DNR, NPS Assateague, and NWS rules when regulations or safety apply.
