Great post Chris. No doubt the ice fishing industry has been on the fast track regarding product improvements. I remember, but do not miss AT ALL, my first hand auger. Nothing like having to “man up” to punch your 4 holes so you could plop the shack down and wait for the fish to come to you. The idea of punching 25, 50 or even more holes in a day was absolutely out of the question. Now… blowing through a whole tank of gas by noon isn’t unheard of. And our catch rates certainly reflect the importance of mobility.
But as for all this talk of ice fishing… mid-60’s here this week. Looks like you’ll be out cruising Rainy in the fish casket for a little while longer. 
HOW HOW HOW HOW…….Can people not be fishing?? 