Family Day is about slowing down. It’s about spending time with the people who matter, maybe out on a frozen lake, waiting for that first big bite. Ice fishing is a tradition in Canada—especially in Alberta, where Family Day first became a holiday. It’s a moment to reflect, a time to celebrate, and for many, a great excuse to drill a few holes in the ice and drop a line.

Of course, before you can start fishing, you need to get through the ice. That’s where an ice auger comes in. Whether you’re using a hand auger for ice fishing or a powerful gas- or battery-driven model, the right tool makes all the difference. Let’s break it down so you can choose the best ice auger for your needs.

Hand Augers vs. Power Augers: What’s Right for You?

There’s no single “best” ice auger for ice fishing—it depends on what you’re looking for. Some anglers swear by hand augers, while others won’t touch the ice without a power auger.

Hand Augers for Ice Fishing: Simple, Lightweight, Reliable

A hand auger is exactly what it sounds like: a manually operated drill with curved blades that cuts through the ice as you turn it. These are great for people who:

• Prefer a lightweight option (easy to carry across a frozen lake)
• Are drilling through thinner ice (under 12 inches)
• Want a quieter experience (no motor, no fumes)
• Don’t mind putting in a little effort

Pros: Silent, lightweight, affordable, and no need for fuel or batteries.

Cons: Requires more effort, and cutting through thick ice takes time.

Power Augers: Faster, Less Effort, More Holes

If you’re dealing with thick ice or want to drill multiple holes, a power auger is the way to go. These come in gas, propane, or battery-powered options, each with its own benefits:

• Gas-powered augers are powerful but heavy and produce fumes.
• Propane augers burn cleaner than gas and require less maintenance.
• Battery-powered augers are quiet, lightweight, and don’t require fuel, making them a solid choice for inside ice shelters.

Pros: Faster results, less effort, ideal for thicker ice.

Cons: Heavier, may require fuel or batteries, and usually more expensive.

Need a rental auger for your trip? Check out our available models here.

Tips for Choosing Augers: Key Features to Look For

Not all augers are created equal. When choosing one, keep these factors in mind:

1. Blade Type & Sharpness

The blades do the cutting, so they matter—a lot. Dull blades make the job harder, while sharp, curved blades slice through ice smoothly. Some augers have replaceable blades, which is a nice bonus.

2. Diameter of the Hole

Common hole sizes range from 6 to 10 inches in diameter. A 6-inch hole is fine for smaller fish, while an 8-inch or 10-inch hole is better for larger catches.

3. Weight & Portability

Hand augers are lighter than power augers. If you’re walking long distances across a lake, a lighter tool might be worth it.

4. Power Source

Gas and propane models work well in extreme cold but require fuel. Battery-powered augers are quieter and fume-free but might struggle in frigid temperatures.

5. Build Quality & Durability

Ice augers take a beating—especially if you’re drilling through thick, rough ice. Look for strong metal construction and a reliable drill mechanism.

Looking for top-tier equipment? We carry Stihl equipment and other trusted brands to get the job done right.

How to Use an Ice Auger (Without Struggling)

Got your auger? Great. Now, let’s get drilling.

1. Choose your spot – Stay away from sand pockets and weak ice. If you’re unsure, ask around or test the thickness first.
2. Clear the surface – Remove snow and debris to ensure a clean start.
3. Start drilling – With a hand auger, use steady pressure and smooth rotations. With a power auger, let the machine do the work—no need to force it.
4. Break through & clear the hole – Once you hit water, lift the auger out carefully and clear away slush.
5. Drop a line & fish!

Powering Your Ice Fishing Hut with a Portable Generator

If you’ve spent any real time ice fishing, you know that a warm, well-lit hut can make all the difference. There’s nothing worse than freezing hands, dead batteries, or trying to fish in the dark because your headlamp is running low. That’s why a portable generator is a game-changer. With the right one, you can run lights, keep a heater going, and charge your gear without worrying about running out of power halfway through the day.

Here’s what to keep in mind when choosing one:

• Power output – You don’t need to power a whole house, but make sure it’s got enough juice for your heater, lights, and whatever else you’re running.
• Portability – A heavy, clunky generator is a pain to haul out onto the ice. Go for something compact but reliable.
• Noise level – If you’re trying to keep things peaceful—or you think a loud generator might spook the fish—look for a quieter model.

For day trips, a smaller, lightweight generator will do the trick. But if you’re staying overnight or running multiple heaters, it’s worth having something with a little more power. Either way, you’ll be a lot more comfortable—and your gear won’t let you down when you need it most.

If you don’t have one, no problem. Rentco rents and sells portable generators, so you don’t have to buy one just to get out on the ice for a weekend. Whether you need a small, quiet model or something bigger, we’ve got solid options that won’t leave you in the cold. 

Renting vs. Buying an Ice Auger

If you’re new to ice fishing, buying an auger outright might not be your best bet. Renting lets you try different types and find what works for you—without the upfront cost.

We carry rental augers and portable generators, plus a full lineup of Bobcat auger drives if you need something for bigger jobs.

And hey—if you’re out on the ice with family, enjoying the quiet, the cold, and the thrill of the catch, that’s what it’s really about. Need augers or generators? Rentco’s got you covered.

See you on the ice!