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Preparing Your Ice Auger for Ice Fishing

One of the single most important tools you will need to be ready for ice fishing season is an ice auger. Some ice fishing augers are manually powered while others are powered by batteries or gas. A battery-powered or gas-powered ice auger is best to use if you plan to change fishing spots often or need to drill through very thick ice.

If you already have an ice auger or are ready to buy one so you can experience the fun of catching fish through the ice, there are some important steps you should take before you use an ice auger for your first ice fishing trip of the season.

Check to be sure that you have the right blade size for the species you are targeting. Panfish can be reeled up through smaller holes using smaller blades while walleye or pike will require larger holes.
Inspect the auger blades for any damage. You may want to consider storing a spare set so that you can switch them out quickly if needed.
If you plan to use a gas-powered auger, replace old gas or oil with fresh fuel.
Check the spark plugs when using a gas-powered ice auger and bring extras along when you are out on the ice.

Above all else, be sure to read up on ice fishing safety before you head out to experience your first catch on the ice.

Preparing Your Ice Auger for Ice Fishing

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