Actually I think it's a good idea to cure up sections of skein rather than small clusters. I filet quarter each skein before curing. That gives you the flexability to cut them the size you want for the fish and water conditions you are targeting - either the night before or right out on the river.

The bigger skeins are often looser and come apart easier because they are closer to maturity when harvested. In that case it's best to dry them out a little longer to toughen them a bit more. And also roll them in borax after drying to further toughen really loose mature skeins. You can also cut looser egg clusters a little bigger than normal and double wind them in the hook's egg loop. That will give them a bit longer usability.

RT