I wouldn't recommend a electric . I use a 8" gas auger . Lot of people prefer the 10" auger . I got by for years with just a hand auger but when it gets thick it will limit you on number of holes per day .Lakes with big macks you can have a 16" , all the other waters you can have a 12" hole by the regulations . Ice fishing usaully starts thankgiving weekend if you are willing to travel for it . And can last till the end of april in the high country .