Ice fishing can be a good form of sport or a way to get food. This activity requires you to have a stronger upper body for breaking and digging the hard, icy surface. If you don’t have the needed upper body strength, you will surely find ice fishing tiring and boring. This icy surface where you stand still might be 1 to 3 feet thick.
Aside from considering how thick the ice might be, you will also need to make holes through it each day by using an ice auger. It is a powerful tool designed to dig holes through the thick ice-covered surface. An ice auger is very useful, especially for the fishermen. It should be on your tool kit whether fishing is your hobby or occupation.
If you don’t have an ice auger yet, then you should check out these 10 products and find the most suitable model for your needs and budget.
Table of Contents
#1. XtremepowerUS 1200W 1.6HP Electric Post Hole Digger
With the 1090W output power and 55CC 2-stroke gas engine, it is a strong and durable hole driller with amazing power output. It can effectively drill through 3-feet deep ice fast. The air-cooling feature helps a lot in keeping the engine efficient.
These ice auger measures 86 centimeters in length while its cutting diameter is 10 inches. It weighs 34 pounds, so it can be hard to transport. This product is so good to use when fishing in the peak of winter – when the ice is thick, and you want to catch the biggest cold-water fish.
Conclusion: XtremepowerUS 1200W is versatile enough and can work with various drill bits for various drilling tasks like gardening and fence posts. It has the right level of power and efficiency, helping you break the ice with ease. We also have a list of the best electric snow shovels that you might like to check.
- Big cutting diameter
- Fast and sharp drilling
- Versatile hole excavator
- Quite heavy
#2. Landworks Heavy Duty Eco-Friendly Electric Cordless Auger
This ice auger is a battery-powered machine that is 100% fuel-odor free, smog-free, and noise-free. The machine is powerful and can easily drill more holes even on the 16-inch thick ice.
It comes with awesome features, such as the 3-Planetary Gear Mechanism that makes the unit itself more effective. This feature helps to produce extraordinary results in various arctic environments.
Also, the effectiveness of this machine is due to the included brushless motor that is beneficial not just for the machine but for the environment as well. There is no friction within the mechanism, making maintenance easier and faster than before. Besides, the features included in this ice auger guarantees longevity to offer outstanding performance for a long time.
Conclusion: Landworks Heavy Duty Eco-Friendly Electric Cordless Auger is no doubt worth considering when it comes to ice augers. It comes with those features that guarantee the best out of this machine in terms of durability, efficiency, and power.
- 3-planetary gear mechanism
- Battery-powered for noise-free operation
- With overload protector and a brushless motor
- Might be heavier than other models
#3. Landworks Heavy Duty Eco-Friendly Electric Power Cordless Auger
This ice auger aims to offer you the best equipment and technology to empower people’s everyday lives. Compared to gasoline auger, the battery-powered auger produces no smog. The machine is also noise-free, allowing you to work without causing pain to your ears.
The ice auger comes with interesting features such as the overload protector that protects the powerhead against overheating. Working on thick ice will no longer be daunting and tiring because this ice auger comes with wide-spaced handles that guarantee enhanced balance during the operation.
The machine’s powerhead features a 3-Planetary Gear Mechanism designed for better transmission efficiency. Besides, the brushless motor is making the entire excavation process more efficient and smoother.
Unlike other ice augers in the market, this product weighs only 22 pounds. It is easier to carry for both transport and storage.
This product comes as a complete package. The box already includes a 2Ah battery, the ice auger bit, and powerhead.
Conclusion: Landworks Heavy Duty Eco-Friendly Electric Power Cordless Auger is a nice machine because it’s smog-free and noise-free. It also comes with features like the 3-Planetary Gear Mechanism and a brushless motor designed for faster, easier, and more efficient operation.
- Lightweight
- With brushless motor
- 3-Planetary Gear Mechanism
- Weak battery capacity
#4. Jiffy 44-10-ALL 6013-0225 44 XT Propane Auger
This ice auger is a high-quality, robust, and heavy-duty propane auger. It has a powerful motor that uses the E-Z Start Technology, enabling the machine to work in cold weather without flooding and chocking or needing priming just like what other motors do.
The machine’s 4-stroke engine is silent and will not disturb the calmness of the environment. This ice auger is powerful enough as it can effectively tear through the thick and stubborn ice portions in just a few seconds.
Since it is propane-powered, you won’t get your hands smelling fuel. Also, this equipment does not emit harmful smoke as it works, making it a good, eco-friendly choice.
The machine’s ripper blade is strong and sharp. It even comes with a two-year warranty for your peace of mind.
Conclusion: Jiffy XT Propane Auger is an excellent choice for professionals and average guys who love ice fishing. The machine comes with nice features that aim to satisfy you in every angle.
- Noise-free
- E-Z start motor
- With a sharp blade
- Clean and healthy operation
- Might be more expensive than other models
#5. Trophy Strike 107387 120V Li-Ion Cordless Ice Auger
This cordless ice auger is also worth considering when it comes to power and efficiency. It can drill more than 80 holes with precision and accuracy in a 20-inch thick ice surface. The machine can make all those holes in just one battery charge.
Unlike other ice augers in this list, this product is lightweight and so convenient to use. Transporting it is so easy as well. Its no-load speed is 380 rpm. This ice auger also has the best brushless motor and a 5-gear planetary transmission that offer reliable, pleasing performance even in the most difficult conditions.
The adjustable drive and bottom-mounted positioning ring in this machine will let you re-open the ice holes and remove ice chips and snow. For the dimensions, the cutting depth is 31.5 inches while the cutting diameter is 8 inches.
Conclusion: Trophy Strike 107387 is a great ice auger equipped with best features that only a reputable product and brand can offer.
- 5-gear planetary transmission
- Equipped with a brushless motor
- Lightweight and convenient to use
- Seems more expensive compared to other similar products
#6. Eskimo Quantum Auger Series
This ice auger is available in two blade sizes: 8 inches and 10 inches. The machine’s total length is 42 inches, which is enough for an average-sized user. This ice auger comes with a high-performance viper engine and 8,000 RPMs of drilling force. Thus, the machine can easily penetrate even the thickest layer of ice.
For your comfort, the handlebars of this machine feature foam grips. The throttle is easier to control with just your fingertip. This ice auger also boasts its high-performance engine that can deliver 43ccs of strength and power, intended for easy, quick operation. For a quick start, the machine even comes with a built-in primer button.
While the gas tank is transparent, it is easy to see when refilling is necessary. Moreover, this unit features 2 replaceable, sharp Quantum blades that can easily cut through the thick layer of ice even in extreme weather conditions.
Conclusion: Eskimo Quantum Auger Series is great that it gives options for the blade size. The machine itself is not too short, neither too long, making it perfect for most users.
- Powerful engine
- Easy to use and control
- Comes with a 5-year warranty
- Bad pull cord
- Blades don’t last long
#7. Eskimo Hand Auger
If you’re searching for a simple hand auger, then it could be the right one for you. This product is good at cutting through the ice and creating nice fishing holes in no time. It comes with a pretty pommel handle style that allows you to cut through the ice and make some holes in just a few minutes.
It uses dual steel blades that are so sharp and easy to replace. These blades are good enough in creating workable fishing holes. The package includes a blade protector and a 1-year limited warranty for your peace of mind and satisfaction. The blades are straight, guaranteeing long life.
The ice auger itself is easy to put together. Even disassembling the parts during cleaning time is also a breeze. Thanks to the machine’s crossbolt fastening system.
This product aims to cater to users of all heights. Feel free to choose the ideal length for you: 49 to 58 inches long with 6-inch cutting diameter, 49 to 58 inches long with 7-inch cutting diameter, or 49 to 58 inches long with 8-inch cutting diameter.
Conclusion: Eskimo Hand Auger is a decent hand ice auger that can accommodate every user. This machine is highly adjustable with 3 options offered for the cutting diameter.
- Adjustable
- Powerful and efficient
- Easy to assemble/disassemble
- Not good for a power drill
#8. Strike Master Ice Augers Lazer Hand Auger
If you’re searching for a good-quality product, then you must add this one to your list of choices. One of the best things this product can guarantee is efficient drilling as it comes with chrome-alloy stainless-steel blades. For reduced ice accumulation, the machine comes with a powder-coated paint.
Using this ice auger for hours is not a problem because it features sturdy handles covered with soft rubber. Since those soft grips are making you feel comfortable, you may end up forgetting you are working with a hand auger.
Moreover, this unit also has an ergonomic handle system that makes drilling easier and trouble-free. To accommodate users of all heights and sizes, this machine comes equipped with a handle that you can adjust between 48 to 57 inches.
Depending on your needs, you get this ice auger in 4 blade sizes with more blade sizes to select from. So, rest assured this product is available in the most suitable size for the kind of fish you’ve been trying to catch.
Conclusion: Strike Master Ice Augers Lazer Hand Auger aims to be a simple but super-efficient ice-cutting tool. Each part and feature you will find in it aims to make the job easier.
- Good quality
- Chrome-alloy stainless steel blades
- Soft rubber grips for superior comfort
- Expensive than other models
#9. ION Eskimo Standard Series Ice Auger
This ice auger aims to eliminate your need for an ice skimmer as it can flush away the ice down the holes. With this machine, you get smooth cuts from time to time. It’s all because of the features included. One of them is the ION No Catch Cutting System that features a spot-on positioning ring that lets you re-open the frozen holes at any time.
The machine itself is easy to carry due to its lightweight design. Weighing only 22 pounds, this ice auger weighs almost 40 percent less compared to most gas-powered ice augers.
No need for gas. No fumes to avoid. This ice auger is truly an eco-friendly machine. No question about its performance. It can cut like the gas auger – thanks to its sturdy steel construction.
Also, this machine comes with a big, ergonomically-positioned trigger. The machine’s wide-spaced handlebar design coupled with the bigger trigger buttons ensure comfort and easy operation.
Conclusion: ION Eskimo Standard Series Ice Auger is a compelling choice for some reasons. it has the features that can help you get the best in every ice cutting activity.
- Lightweight
- Easy to use
- ION No Catch Cutting System
- Expensive
#10. ION 29300 x Complete 10″ Ice Auger
This ice auger has a 5 amp-hour Xc5 battery that guarantees more than 60 percent more storage capacity compared to the standard ION battery. Its new aluminum cast base leads to smoother and more even cuts on thicker ice when drilling new holes and even re-opening the frozen holes.
The centering point guarantees ultra-accurate blade positioning when making new holes on the icy surface. Moreover, this product tries to eliminate your need for ice skimmers as it can already handle the job. This ice auger can effectively flush the cracked ice chips down the holes.
Positioned underneath the powerhead, the bright LED lights will illuminate the iced surface. Thus, this machine is suitable for night operations and when drilling in the dark shelters.
Conclusion: ION 29300 x Complete 10″ Ice Auger is a great ice auger that tries to offer the best value for your money. It also comes with fantastic features that will make you happy and satisfied with every job.
- Accurate
- Easy to use
- New aluminum cast base
- Expensive
How to Choose the Right Ice Auger for Your Needs?
Picking the ideal ice auger for your needs might be tricky as the market provides you with almost unlimited choices. Here are some things that will help you determine and find the best machine for yourself:
Price
Ice augers are not cheap, but some models can deliver the best performance at an affordable price. Still, you should go for the model that is not only cheap but with good quality and performance. Go for the ice auger that can truly satisfy you.
Brand
When choosing an ice auger, make sure you know the brands well. This list is already giving you a list of the most trusted brands of ice augers. These brands manufactured their products with decent quality, so you can rely on their power and performance even in the hardest circumstances.
Features
Some ice augers focused on providing you the basics while others can give more in terms of features. The more features included, the more expensive the product can be. If your budget is quite tight, go for the model that comes with all those features that can help satisfyingly finish the job.
Weight
The unit’s weight is also a crucial factor. The machine should be lightweight enough if you’re trekking a long distance. Hand augers are the lightest, and electric augers are second to them. the gas-powered models are heavy and require dragging on the sled.
Ease of Use
The ideal ice auger must be quick to start and operate. The length must be adjustable enough to fit different heights. It must stay steady on the ice surface while working. Also, there should be easy to grip handles for easy maneuver and superior comfort, especially for time-consuming jobs.
Portability
Lastly, make sure your preferred ice auger is easy to carry, depending on your vehicle, the ice thickness, and how frequent you’ll be moving. Electric and hand augers are very transportable. Also, they are safer to use if the ice is not too thick.
What Features to Look for in an Ice Auger?
Blade Size: This one determines the hole’s diameter, which also depends on how big the fish you want to catch. 8 inches is the most adaptable size. If you don’t need a bigger hole, then you may go for size 4 to 6 inches, which is okay for smaller fish. For bigger fish like trout, the best size will be 10 inches.
Blade Extensions: Be sure your ice auger is long enough so that it can efficiently drill through thick ice. If not, you will be wasting your energy, fuel, or battery power for nothing. Some ice augers have blade extensions that are giving you an additional 12 inches of length for crushing the last layer of ice.
Blade Type: There are several blades that you will likely encounter when buying a new ice auger. To get the best one for you, you should concentrate on the durability and sharpness to endure the demands repetitive ice cutting.
Shaving Blade: This type of blade comes with smooth edges which work accurately and rapidly to cut through the ice. Shaving blade is also easy to control.
Chipper Blade: This blade type has sharp and jagged teeth which cut and chop the ice.
Note: The more blades your machine has, the quicker it can drill and make holes into the ice. Therefore, you must look for a product with multiple blades if efficiency and speed are more important to you.
Kinds of Ice Augers
Choosing the right ice auger for yourself depends on the kind of environment where you’re working with the machine. If you need more power, then you must consider those options with something like a brushless motor or an engine. Manual augers are much better to use for easy and casual ice cutting. Here are the 3 types of ice augers:
Gas
If you’re okay with a noisy machine, then you may go for gas-powered ice augers. These machines provide quick and efficient drilling because these machines are sure to work regardless of how thick the ice is. However, the fuel can freeze in the low temperatures. The engine might not handle those conditions. Also, they may harm the environment.
Manual
The manual ice augers are those machines you can operate by hand. These machines are smaller compared to other augers. They are lightweight, too. However, you need more effort in using them. Still, they’re the most typical auger you will likely to find. They are perfect for thinner ice.
Electric
These ice augers are more common than the manual and electric models. These machines ensure quiet operation and comparable performance with the gas-powered ice augers.
Final Conclusion
The 10 ice augers included in this list are, no doubt the best options you have so far. They have impressive performance and quality, and a nice set of features that can cater to your specific needs. If you’re still confused, then go back to the buying guide above and check each model based on your needs, expectations, and budget. Be wise and re-think about your preferred option before making it your final decision.