Just booked out first duck hunt, ever-hired a guide-OK, got me a 12 gauge with modified and IC chokes, 4 boxes of #2 steel shot, a set of Magellen waders 1.5 sizes too big, and a duck stamp today. First time hunt is the 29th-guided, so anything else I need to think about getting?

Gallon freezer bags and a small cooler to fill with duck breasts!

Ear plugs.

Ear plugs are nice. I wear the Surefire defenders at work and hunting. I don't even push them in all the way. They allow you to hear most normal sound but protect you from high volume. About $10 bucks.

Hot coffee

Make sure your gun is plugged. Duck stamp? I like using a leafy face mask.

Headlamp for setting up before shooting time.

need 2 duck stamps... signed in ink across the face, is still required I believe...
Enjoy! (4 boxes of shells, eh?) you should not run out!

Duck strap, blind bag, and yes, ear plugs.

Is a state duck stamp needed, as well as a HIP permit? Ditto the earplugs. Get a sling for your shotgun to, free up your hands for the walk in and out.

took the NIB 870 out this weekend quail hunting and puddle jumping ducks-jammed 1st shot every time! took apart, dig out emptiy, try again...JAM! gonna try Remington CS this am. May have to go to the 20 gauge for the hunt on the 29th...

sorry you got a lemon 870. I like the older ones, even back into 1950's guns. but the old barrels were not made for steel shot.

If you are anywhere near austin I'd be more than willing to let you take my 870 wingmaster. I have shot a lot of the new make 870s at our PD and handled countless others. The new ones just are the same.

I appreciate the sentiment but I'll made due with what I got. I can't wait to give it a try!!

You need to polish the chambers on the new 870s with steel wool spun on a drill with some lube/oil. The new ones, especially Express versions, are notorious for sticking with cheap shells.

Also, try a different brand of shell, as guns often work well with one and not another.

OK, time for a trip report!

He must still be cleaning birds.