Question on hedging strategy for energy portfolios in current volatility

Been watching the $CL_F and $BNO movements with a closer eye lately, and while I understand the basic premise of hedging, I'm trying to wrap my head around effective strategies for smaller portfolios. It seems like the common advice is often geared towards institutional players with access to a wider array of derivatives. For someone managing a personal account with a directional exposure to energy stocks, what are some practical, less capital-intensive ways to mitigate significant drawdowns without completely neutralizing potential upside? Is it just about sizing down, or are there specific instruments or approaches that others here have found workable?