JohninPa I due my snack sticks just like you. for the water i start out with 1o/z per pound.
then add as needed . they come out perfect ever time this way. I also due it with out the ECA.
If you due that you will have to let the product sit in the fridge over night to cure.

I start at 160 for 2hr as my smoker only goes as low as 160.
Then to 175 for an hour. I finish at 200 until i get an internal temp of 160
after that i put them in an ice bath to cool them of and set the casing. My snack sticks come out perfect ever time this way.