Eels are far too snake-like for me. They are fine when they're in the water and I'm on land, but I would not want to be in the same pond as them. Not for $20.
In the end I was pleased with myself (I got my $30) and I was also a little embaressed about the panic/screaming fit I "didn't" have...... but you know, sometimes you have to step outside your comfort zone.