I've been thinking about putting out some brush piles and being new to this, I have a couple of questions. When putting out a BP made with willow, should the willow tree limbs be green or can it be from a dead willow tree? Or does it matter? Also, I haven't heard much about live oak trees being used. Does oak work very well to attract crappie (and other fish)? Thanks for any advice.

I put out cedar piles not willow but I've seen a lot of people say it doesn't matter if it's green or not. I put mine out green and had a few fish on them in a couple of days. After a few weeks had a good bit of fish on them.

I just put out my first two last week, so it's too early to tell. But, they were live oak. I got some great replies and advice on my post about it. So I'm watching this one hoping to learn more.

green is better, but either will work.

I agree,

If they are green it takes less weight to sink them. I think they will attract fish faster too! Usually will have small crappie in them in less than a week.

IN my experience on Sam Rayburn Green willow works best! I like pvc but sounders can't hardly see them, so if I use pvc I put a dash of willow as a welcome mat. Fresh green willow will have occupants in about three days especially if you put it close to an older pile or in a transition area from Deep(like a creek bed) to a flat in about 20 - 25 feet of water. Your experience may vary.