KF is correct about smashing barbs as they are used. It's what's attached to your line that matters. What does smashed mean? To me it's crushing the barb down as much as possible. Not so easy with the big hooks on bigger baits. There will still be a lump in any case. I actually prefer using the smashed barbs to their non-smashed originals.

Nothing live no matter where it comes from. In a way it would be kinda foolish to put live bait on a barbless hook anyway. Live also includes things that were once live like salted minnows, frozen smelt ....

Smelly type Power baits and Gulp are a good alternative. Has anyone tried that type of stuff on a slip-bobber? I know a fake leech on a spinner rig works.

FWIW - Lead is fine for the foreseeable future due to industry pressure.