Brined and Smoked Smelts

Steps

1. 1Rinse the smelts in cool running water. Set aside.
2. 2Place all of the remaining ingredients, except the ice, into an electric kettle. Bring to a boil. Add the ice and stir until the mixture is cooled. Transfer the liquid to a 1-gallon resealable bag along with the smelts. Seal and place in a container so that all of the fish are covered by the brine. Place in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to 1 hour.
3. 3Remove the smelts from the brine, rinse, and pat dry. Place the smelts onto a paper towel-lined half-sheet pan, layering with paper towels if they won't fit in one layer. Allow to dry in the refrigerator overnight.
4. 4The next day, place the smelts onto racks, belly-side down, separating them by at least 1/4 inch and place into a smoker. Turn the smoker on so that it maintains a temperature of 150 to 160ºF. Adjust heat, as needed, and cook for approximately 3 hours or until desired level of doneness.