Getting back into upland/waterfowl

[mb121]

Well after a long hiatus from bird hunting I have decided to get back into the sport and try my hand at some duck hunting. But have some questions as it has been around 7 years since I last did any kind of upland bird hunting and have only duck hunted once and that was more just wandering around scouting for pheasant that was in the field next to the pond.   I will be hunting primarily Fort Lewis and it's training areas.

What are some good loads for ducks?  Way to many choices out there from fast steel to that black cloud stuff.  I have seen mostly Mallards and a few others that I haven't been able to ID readily as they were out on the lake and I didn't have my binos at the time.
What is a approximate lead with steel shot? Just recently started hitting the trap/skeet range trying to get my skills back with the shotgun but I only have been using lead shot, need to get some steel and practice.  Also anyone know where I can pick up some cheap steel loads for practice?
Any tips would be useful as I have very limited experience and any gear suggestions as well, currently saving up for some waders, gear I currently have is only a Rem 870 in 12 ga and a can do attitude.
Also with the license situation I currently have the Washington migratory bird validation and the federal stamp is there anything else that I need to hunt waterfowl?

Thanks for the help ahead of time.

[Hot Lunch]

Just get out there and go for it. If your not sure throw a duck hunting dvd on the tv and take notes.

I like federal 3" 4's for ducks...about 2-3 cases a year!

[carpsniperg2]

welcome to the site! there is a lot of guys on here, that know that area. and i am sure help you out with areas to go. fast steel is my fave for ducks and geese. i just started shooting the black cloud and really like it a bunch, but have not shot a ton of it yet. duck loads depends on the situations. most times #2 will work for everything for decoying #4 and #2 is what i use. for jump shooting i use #2 and bb's. i don't know about the stores around your area but wally world is a good place to pick up some cheaper steel shells like the winchester and Remington stuff. that stuff will kill as well.