actually if your hands are wet (doesn't appear to be the case here though) that is better than using a towel. a wet towel works when you need your hands free for other things (and the gar secure) like writing down measurements, etc etc, but it more effectively takes off the slime coat too. wetting your hands (which should be done when handling any live fishes - if you want them to be safe) is the best move--
--solomon