I went in the woods and cut down a couple young straight hicory trees. I made mine about 5 foot long. I can anchor in as much as 18 inches of water and mud and still get in and out of the boat to retreave ducks or rearange decys and two can stand and shoot out of it. I use the poles also to wrap a rope around that forms the "clothes line" to hang my blind from.
Ozark, I am sure you would have access to a couple hicory sticks.
I need to update some photos....it has been a while since I was active on this site and on building boats....but I cleaned up the garage this weekend and I am getting the itch to make some saw dust.