Quick Answer
When choosing ammunition for duck hunting in the Mississippi Delta, select a load with a suitable weight for your shotgun gauge, consider the distance to your target, and choose a shell with a good reputation for pattern density and penetration.
Choosing the Right Gauge and Shot Size
For small waterfowl like teal and wood ducks, a 20-gauge shotgun with a 2 3/4-inch shell loaded with 2 1/4 or 2 3/8-inch No. 6 or No. 7 shot is a good choice. For larger ducks like mallards and geese, a 12-gauge shotgun with a 3-inch shell loaded with 1 1/4 or 1 1/2 ounces of No. 2 or No. 1 shot is more effective. In the Mississippi Delta, where ducks are often shot at close range, a smaller shot size like No. 7 or No. 8 can be more effective than a larger shot size like No. 2 or No. 1.
Consideration for Distance and Penetration
When shooting at longer distances in the Mississippi Delta, choose a load with a heavier shot weight to ensure penetration and a better chance of a clean kill. For example, a 12-gauge 3-inch shell loaded with 1 1/4 ounces of No. 2 shot can be effective at distances up to 40 yards, while a load with 1 1/2 ounces of No. 1 shot can be effective at distances up to 60 yards. In addition, choose a load with a good reputation for pattern density and penetration to increase your chances of a clean kill.
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