Thread: Going ice fishing

I have done ice fishing twice here in mo........ I had a ice auger, but even with it, after drilling or chopping a hole you need to wait 15-20 min. to start fishing, seems like they don't like the noise........ man be careful, got an auger if you lived close you could use it, be sure and have a escape plan......

I wouldn't go ice fishing without an auger . You are going to have to make more than one hole and you will be worn out before you get on fish . With an auger , you also have a smoother hole than won't cut your line .

Originally Posted by olesilverside

I have done ice fishing twice here in mo........ I had a ice auger, but even with it, after drilling or chopping a hole you need to wait 15-20 min. to start fishing, seems like they don't like the noise........ man be careful, got an auger if you lived close you could use it, be sure and have a escape plan......

I appreciate the offer for an auger, but I'll see if we can get by with an axe... or chainsaw.

I wouldn't really worry about the noise to much, when its freezing and the ice is expanding and popping it makes plenty of noise itself. If ya think you've driven your fish away, then move away from your area and start driving them back. A pinchbar will be faster and quieter, but honestly your better off with an auger.

An auger creates it's share of noise as well. Think of a dentist's drill--doesn't sound that loud but when it gets in your mouth it's VERY loud. So the fish are gonna hear you coming no matter what.

That said, Do yourself a favor and get an auger. I think I bought my 8" for $40 brand new. 6" were like $32 or so? Or find someone who has one you can borrow if you think it's gonna be a one time gig.

Be safe....I've been wanting to go up here around Smithville, but can't find the time...

a ax is good if your holes have already been drilled and froze over.a chainsaw is great but no matter how hard you try you will get wet. if you use a chainsaw take something to push the block down and under the ice.if none of that works start a few little fires on the ice have a cold one and wait 1 hour.

Done it 2 times,both on clinton lake in kansas,used an auger,i would suggest that you buy one,fast an easy.......but....will never do it again i was way to nervous walkn across the open water..pull a sled with alot of things on it that you might think you could use if a bad situation was to happen.rope,flotation.etc...good luck be safe..

Take some pictures for us non-ice fishermen to see while your out there and good luck!