r/Duckhunting

Was curious everyone’s thoughts on this, I’ve got a Winchester SX4 and hunt in Ohio, mostly fields with the occasional river trip. I’ve always just used a modified choke tube because it seemed to be the best middle ground of decent distance, pattern not terribly tight if they come in close and risk destroying too much meat. (And also wider pattern if the user doesn’t always shoot the best…) I’m sure location and duck species can make choke choice very important but what’s everyone else’s stance here?

I’m new to duck hunting, and no, I’m not asking for spots, I know that’s not going to happen. Last season, I tried hunting several different public areas including conservation areas and MRAP land. I’m in the St. Louis area and would like to start hunting/ scouting the public land on the rivers more, so a boat would be helpful.

I’m looking for advice on what type of duck boat would be best for the Missouri and Mississippi Rivers, while also working well on smaller rivers/ lakes in the area. I know the big rivers can be dangerous, so I want to make sure I get a boat that can handle those conditions.

Any advice would be appreciated. Thanks!