I have a WSM and I use a Teracota saucer wrapped in foil, and then I put that in the water pan. This acts as a heat sink. If you sprinkle with a little water about 2 hours into a cook, that helps the moisture on the surface and attracts the smoke that you need. In short, I still don't bother with water in the pan, and I have not had dry meat. Again, if you don't want to bark, just a little spitting does the trick.