Advice? Spud bars for hole cutting

[vt-jig]

So, due to the mysterious disappearance of my hand auger, and an unfortunate case of unsuspected financial misfortune, my holes will be made with a basic spud bar. Any tips on how to quickly and efficiently cut a decent hole without scaring everything away in the process? I understand the sharpening process on single bevel edges. And I also understand how to properly position the bevel to avoid a funnel shaped hole. But, I feel like I'm not fully "getting" the technique. Anybody have any pointers?

[Registered Kayak]

Just for messing around I've made quick,one s by simply making square holes. Easier for me to do and doesn't have to be pretty.

[NEK_VT]

A few people that know me know that I never go the easy route. That said, using a spud to chop holes can be done. It's laborious and takes a while to get a full line set up. What's better advice is to scour the forums and classifieds for a used hand auger. When I found one I could afford, I dropped everything and picked it up right away. I bought it for next to nothing after a year of only having a spud. Best ice fishing payoff to date (even better than the addition of a jet sled years later!).

[bootstrap]

look for others or old holes. most people are happy to help.

[Lavman]

Sell a film container of sperm and get a 5" Strikemaster over to Dick's

[vt-jig]

All good points, thanks guys. I'm finding that squares are definitely the way to go, in comparison to trying for a round hole. Almost fell out of my chair on the film canister idea 

[canam802]

Have an old Mora 4" I would give could use blades but works

[spot]

I picked up a 6" hand auger at the re-use shed where I drop off trash. All it needed was a new edge on the blades.

They're definitely out there for not much, or for no money.

Bootstrap is correct though, go where there are people and you're likely to find an old hole you can kick open or someone who will let you use their auger.

[VTMatt]

Oh this one is easy.

Wear ALL camo, camp at public launches and follow big crowds. Carry one rod and one bucket. Once they start to catch fish, start hooting and hollering about how you left your wallet, phone, jigs, auger, and manners at home. Meanwhile, kick open their holes closest to them and ask to borrow the same jig theyre using without introducing yourself first.

 

[vt-jig]

Have an old Mora 4" I would give could use blades but works

hey that's an interesting offer. Would definitely be willing to discuss a barter or something. Sent you a pm.

[Nthaburgh]

I was drilling through 14” on Monday, this is a crappy year to have to go old school. Real bummer. I would look for old holes they may not have completely refroze.

[Pickerelslayer]

If you haven't found a new one yet I have a 6" hand auger that i would give you. I just bought a new nils this year and have no use for my old mora.

[vtpike]

Sell a film container of sperm and get a 5" Strikemaster over to Dick's

The absolute best post I’ve seen here in about 7 years!!!

[peteinvermont]

The absolute best post I’ve seen here in about 7 years!!!

I bet Lav is dehydrated and chaffed, but he's got all new gear...

[gofish22]

Not sure where you are located but I have an extra 6in hand auger that I don't use. You are welcome to it.

[Lavman]

I bet Lav is dehydrated and chaffed, but he's got all new gear...

HAHAHAHAHA! Jayzus Pete I was eatin' my soup, dang near spat it out on the keyboard! 

Truthfully, I was able to "squeeze out" 3 new Swedish Pimple jig spoons after the holidays but had to use a Cabelas gift card to do it!

Ah sheeet that was funny.....LMAO ova hea, this site is gonna be better n lashear

[dtefft]

Years ago when I started ice fishing for the first time we could not buy all the equipment at once so we opted to use a chainsaw for a little while before we could get an auger.  Sure was quicker than a spud bar.

[vtpike]

I bet Lav is dehydrated and chaffed, but he's got all new gear...

....hahaha.... love it!!!

[spot]

Years ago when I started ice fishing for the first time we could not buy all the equipment at once so we opted to use a chainsaw for a little while before we could get an auger.  Sure was quicker than a spud bar.

and afterward, some of the fish come up pre-filleted. 

[pokholes]

Not sure where you are located but I have an extra 6in hand auger that I don't use. You are welcome to it.

Now that's funny Pete!!!

[Capt. Mike]

My uncle ice fished every weekend and more often once he retired. He always used a spud. It didn't matter if we were fishing on three feet of ice. He could cut a hole with that chisel almost has fast as an auger.  I think he finally got a power auger when he hit his 70's.