Stakebeds, Green vs Seasoned???

[slabbandit]

Wanting to get some input from some of you who put out a lot of stakebeds on whether or not you noticed a difference if the stakes were put in freshly cut (green)or if they last longer if they are seasoned and dried out first.

[NIMROD]

Probably not much difference. The green wood may sour for a spell like green hardwood trees do. The dry ones may try to float up while putting them in.

[slabbandit]

No problem with the dry ones trying to float. Makes 'em stay up in the driver well. They drive into the bottom no problem and hold good.
I have noticed that green cut brush takes a little while to get going probably due to the "souring process". Put in a big persimmon one time with leaves on and didn't catch a fish there until next year but then it was awesome!

[fishordie]

I've used both and like slabbandit said the dry ones stay in the driver better. I haven't noticed any difference in what the fish think. I try to use oak and cherry. If they are dry I can have a lot unloaded from the boat floating next to me while I'm driving them in standing in waders. If they are green they will sink so I have to unload them from the boat one at a time.
Stake beds are the best producers of all I build.
LOL

[bigfish5]

is there a secret to where to put stakebeds? mine dont seem to work very well?

[slabbandit]

A rapid depth change or anywhere there is no other available cover seems to work good.

[fishordie]

The first thing I look for is the creek channel. Then I try to follow it and find a bend. Then I'll troll around that bend and find where it comes up fast to a depth that is shallow enough for me to get in my waders and start driving stakes. I'll drive between 30 and 40 to each spot.
I'll try to get to the water when the winter pool is the lowest even though with the drought the last 2 years I have had a few to stick there heads out.
Best of Luck

[CrappieTexan]

Build it and they will come.........