I prefer horizontal limbs for holding fish. Have to admit I've seen some good looking bamboo structures on this post. With PVC, I do cross pieces on the bottom and make a main post w/1" PVC crisscrossing all the way to the top. Try not to get it too thick. Won't have any trouble moving a jig thru it because it's PVC. I think it bears repeating, PVC has to be sanded and have a rough finish for algae to adhere to it.