What To Look For
Consider your ice fishing conditions, either at your favorite spot or in your region in general. The power auger takes the place of your regular, man-powered auger and can save you a lot of effort, but this should be considered against the effort it will take to haul the added weight to the fishing site. Look for a blade with multiple cutting surfaces (smooth and serrated) so that your auger will always get the job done.
Power augers come in both electric models, powered by car batteries, and gas-powered models. The gas-powered models are more recommended, as they are self-contained and more powerful.
Auger blades are a standard length of approximately three feet, however the blade widths differ, ranging from 6 to 10 inches. Get the widest blade you think you may need.
Common Pitfalls
Don't skimp on your power auger. When you make the purchase, it can be tempting to go for a cheaper or lighter model. However, it is usually better to err on the side of too much--be it weight, power or cost--than too little. Better to go a little overboard than to find yourself on the ice without enough auger to get the job done.
Where To Buy
Any ice fishing supplier can sell you an auger, powered or otherwise. You can buy your first auger online, but before you do make sure to spend some time at a store getting your hands on various models and seeing what you like and what you don't. A store with employees who are knowledgeable about local conditions is obviously best, as well as one with a flexible return policy if your first choice does not do the job you expect it to.
Cost
The cheapest power ice augers on the market will set you back around $300. These models will have narrow blades and generate the least power. A heavy-duty model will cost around $500. Specialty models may run more, but for your first power ice auger, you should generally expect to spend between $400 and $500.
Comparison Shopping
While pricey at approximately $550, the Strikemaster Strike Lite is a great general purpose power auger. The air-cooled engine is certified as environmentally friendly and it takes straight unleaded fuel, avoiding mixing. The four-stroke engine provides up to 170 RPM and 65 foot pounds of torque. The engine is quiet, so you won't scare the fish away, and the best part is this auger weighs only 20 pounds.
For a cheaper option, the Jiffy White Lightning is widely available for around $300. It also features an eight inch blade, and while it is heavier and louder than more expensive power augers, it is reliable and easy to operate. It operates with a 2 horsepower, 49 cubic centimeter engine, which easily provides enough power for all but the toughest ice. For most ice anglers, this budget choice will do this trick.
Insider Tips
Even if you keep it in a storage bag, always wear gloves when operating your ice power auger. Between the cold metal and the sharp blade, you don't want to have bare skin anywhere near your auger.
