Trust me he is more afraid of you than you are of him. I know that's what they always say, but its true lol. Don't think anything of it when you pick him up, just do it. It is important to get comfortable with him while he is young, before he is larger and capable of doing some real damage. As a snake owner you have to accept that there is always a chance that you will be bitten. I have never been bitten by a baby but I am told it doesn't hurt, and its not like they have venom.
I wouldn't get a hook, or gloves for that matter.