I have used pecan and like it. Hickory light. Only wood I've tried a few times and I'm just not a fan of is mesquite. Sorry Texas! I could get by on hickory and apple. We use a lot of times what others in your area and whats around as far as wood goes. Hickory is great but some overdue it. I lke old school smoking. I don't spritz,baste, inject, etc on butts. It has enough fat to baste its self. I put rub on a few hours before putting it on put the butt in the smoker for about 8 hrs and checked it and then checked at 11 hours for temp. Checked again at 12 and a half hours and it was 203. Done! To above post I don't have much luck posting pics . I have some good ones.