Rinse the eel thoroughly with cold water, then pat it dry with paper towels. Gently loosen the skin with a knife to help the marinade absorb better.
In a small bowl, combine the salt, pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and brown sugar. Generously rub the spice mixture all over the outside and inside of the eel.
In another bowl, mix together the honey, lemon juice, and olive oil. Brush a thin layer of this mixture over the seasoned eel.
Refrigerate the eel for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld properly.
Preheat the smoker to 194-212°F (90-100°C). Distribute the charcoal or wood evenly in the smoker to ensure consistent smoke.
Place the eel on the smoker rack and smoke slowly for 2-3 hours, or until the skin is golden brown and slightly crispy.
During the last 30 minutes of smoking, brush the eel again with the honey glaze to create a caramelized and rich coating.
Carefully remove the smoked eel from the smoker and let it rest for 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors and moisture to redistribute.
Serve fresh with lemon wedges, fresh vegetables, or a light salad. It's also an excellent choice with toasted bread or steamed rice.
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