Fennel Smoked Salmon

Place salmon in a shallow baking dish. Place enough water in a saucepan to cover the salmon. Add salt and heat until salt is completely dissolved. Cool and pour over salmon. Let sit in the refrigerator over night. Place salmon on wire racks to dry for about 30 minutes. Prepare smoker. Slice fennel bulb into thin slices from top to bottom. When the smoker is ready place the fennel on the grating and place the salmon on top of the fennel. Sprinkle with pepper and let smoke for about 1 to 2 hours. Salmon is done when it no longer appears wet, flakes easily, but is still moist.