If you are going to be ice fishing, you will need to cut a hole in the ice. Although there are a number of options, most anglers these days are using ice augers. Ranging from the modest-priced hand model to the more expensive power model, the auger is a very important tool for the modern angler. There are many considerations when choosing the right ice auger. How often you fish, what you are fishing for, and whether you have to carry your gear will help you determine the best auger for you. The first step is deciding whether you want a hand or a power model.
Hand augers, such as the spiral auger, are popular due to lower cost. This is a good choice for the occasional angler where the cost of a power auger would not be justifiable. They are also lighter and need less maintenance than power augers. The downside is that the cutting power comes from you, which can limit the amount of ice you can cut through as well as the size of the hole. Advances in design have made working with hand augers much easier. Newer hand augers have curved blades that stay sharp longer. These blades cut more quickly and easily than the flat blades of older models. To add more power, some hand augers now have offset handles and many are adjustable. To add to your convenience, most handles either fold down, screw together, or use a pin system for easier transportation and storage.
Power augers are more expensive, heavier, and going to require more maintenance. Also, being motor-driven, they may spook the fish in shallow water. For the dedicated angler it is well worth it. The power auger will cut large holes quickly. They will also cut through thicker ice more easily and require little effort on your part. Your power auger will last for years if you take good care of it. The Tecumseh engine is used by most major companies and they generally offer a choice of two or three horsepower. The two-horsepower models are lighter and more convenient if you will be carrying your gear. If you will be drilling larger holes, you may want the extra power provided by a three-horsepower model.
Hand augers are a good choice when the ice is a little thinner and easier to cut. They are more convenient when you are unable to use motorized transportation and will have to carry or drag your equipment. Hand augers work well when fishing for smaller fish. You can use a 4- to 4 1/2-inch auger for panfish and a 6- or 8-inch auger for trout, pike, or walleye during early and late winter. Power augers are a better choice when the ice is thicker and the weight of the drill is not an issue. An 8-inch power auger is advantageous when looking for larger fish. Companies such as Normark, Jiffy, and Strikemaster produce both hand and power augers. Blade sizes range up to 10 inches. You can choose single, twin, or triple blades. Electric and gas are both available. The variety and options are almost endless. With so many great choices out there, you will be fishing in no time.
