Augers & Electronics

When it comes to enjoying your time out on the ice, having the right gear makes all the difference.

With so many options and varieties available, it can be tricky to know where to start. We at Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s have broken down the key facts on all the essentials, so you can navigate the tools of the trade like a pro and fish like one too!

Ion Alpha Series

With 2000 inches per charge and a cutting speed of up to 3.4 inches per second, drill faster for longer with the latest Alpha Series.

How to Pick the Right Ice Auger

While choosing an ice auger, consider the weight, power, ice thickness, number of ice holes, the size of the target fish you intend to catch, and the budget.
Here’s a breakdown of the specs, ice drilling, maintenance of ice augers and safety.

Convertible

A high-performance hand auger can easily convert into an electric powered auger with a cordless drill. The attached flare prevents accidental loss down the hole.

Pros
Lightweight unit making it easy to pack and scout on ice, easy storage, and delivers high-performance

Cons
Limited to power of cordless drill – not ideal for thick ice

Unit Weight
Light

Cost
$$



Electric

If you spend a lot of time on ice that's two-foot plus thick, a gas auger is definitely a great fit.

Pros
No fumes, quiet and no mess

Cons
Power depends on level of charge, requires battery

Unit Weight
Light–Average

Cost
$$

Gas

While being lighter and an environmentally friendly choice, it provides the power of a four-stroke model.

Pros
Easy to drill regardless of the ice depth or circumference, durable and efficient

Cons
Possible smell, two-stroke motors require gas mixing

Unit Weight
Average–Heavy

Cost
$$$



Manual

Although it mainly uses your own body strength to get the job done, the latest manual augers have new ergonomic blade designs that makes it less strenuous.

Pros
Clean and quiet

Cons
Requires manual strength, very difficult to drill through thick ice

Unit Weight
Lightest

Cost
$

Guide to Ice Drilling, Maintenance, and Safety

Back in the day, ice anglers used iron bars, axes, or ice chisels to pick ice until they broke through. Times change, and with an auger, you can drill an ice hole in minutes or even seconds. Know all about ice drilling, auger blade maintenance and safety.

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Ice Fishing Electronics

Underwater Cameras

An underwater camera is a great asset to use in icy water conditions. It helps you identify structure, weeds, check bottom conditions, and monitor fish and bait, providing a better ice fishing experience.

Below are a few crucial factors to consider while investing in an underwater camera for ice fishing.

How to Choose an Underwater Camera for Ice Fishing

6 Factors to Consider Before Buying an Underwater Camera

  1. Screen Size: Underwater cameras differ from flashers and fish finders. Therefore, the screen size can determine how well you do on the ice. While the screens range from four to ten inches, get a camera that you can manoeuvre easily that offers high definition. It can help you identify fish species more clearly and help you determine where you want to fish.
  1. Resolution: When choosing an underwater camera, opt for either a standard-definition camera or a high-definition camera for a clearer picture. However, the latter comes with a higher cost. It is best to select the system with the highest resolution that fits within your budget.
  2. Low Light Performance: Ice fishing and low light conditions go hand in hand, so your camera’s ability to perform will be a significant deciding factor in your fishing experience. For this reason, some underwater cameras utilize infrared (IR) LEDs to provide illumination without disturbing the fish. Other cameras use standard LEDs. They are more cost-effective, but fish can see them.
  1. Field of View: The underwater landscape is dynamic, and having a camera with a wide angle allows you to explore the hidden underwater world. With a broader field of view, you can monitor larger areas and increase the chance of identifying potential fishing hotspots. Most underwater cameras have an angle of 90 to 92 degrees, a good balance between broad coverage and image size.
  1. Cable Length:b> Choose an underwater camera with a cable long enough to reach the depths you plan to fish. The cable length determines how deep you will be able to see. Ideally, the best ice fishing cameras have cables that range from 50 to 125 feet. Some cameras offer cables with the depth conveniently marked on them.
  2. Battery: Underwater cameras have batteries of different sizes and chemistry. Choose one that gives you the runtime that aligns with your needs. Some cameras feature power-saving modes to offer longer run times.

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Flashers

Flashers are the most popular tools for ice fishing. They provide real-time information through a circular display. Fish and lures appear between the top of the screen and the strong return of the bottom. If you see fish but can't catch them, change your bait or presentation. If you don't see any fish, move to a different location. Flashers are perfect for ice fishing due to their quick response, accuracy, and excellent target separation.

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Sonar

Sonars are portable electronic units with LCD screens that use sound frequencies to determine water depth, bottom composition, and fish in different columns of water. They notify you when there is a movement in the area. Compared to flashers, sonars can provide information about what's going on below the ice. Most sonar units designed for ice fishing will have a flasher mode to show a real-time view while providing historical data of previous movements. You can use a sonar unit all year round with the proper accessories.

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