I plan on making some stake buckets and I have some untreated pine boards (2 X 4, 2 X 6, that I was going to rip) that I could use.

How long do you think they will last?

We have several oak tobacco sticks that we can use. I could mix some pine in with those.

LB, my experience is 'not long enough". Realistically, I think you could count on 7-10 years with pine. I think your oak would last a little longer since it is harder wood. Key is, just remember where the buckets are so that when the water goes down in the winter, you can check them out and make repairs when necessary.

I use cedar trees and find myself replacing them about every 5 years. Maybe over kill, but I just like the activity and like to refresh the spots.

Are you totally agains trying pvc pipe? Lot of guys use that to make their 'crappie trees' and they last. Just sayin-------

LB, one thing I failed to mention about the pvc pipe. It's pretty hard to hung up on the plastic, round pipe, compared to the rough edges of the wood.

if you 2 x stuff it'll last several years