Erie basics

[smith07]

I have never ice fished Lake Erie for walleye and would the answers to some very basic questions:
What size auger do you need?
What power rod is recommended?  What is should be avoided and what is ideal?
What line type and strength?
What weight and lure variety do you need to not have every possible option covered, but to give yourself a fighting chance?

[toadfish]

I have gotten away with a 7" hole and a gaff for the big fish but be prepared to lose a few at the hole.  An 8 or 10" would be better.  The law allows up to a 12" hole.

Any sensitive medium or medium light rod will bring in the eyes.  Use whatever rod you are used to and you should do fine.

For line, I would go 8# as a minimum.  Use fluorocarbon, at least for a leader.

For lures,  jigging raps in#5, #7 usually are OK as are the similar size Swedish pimples.  Sometimes spoons up to 1 oz like little Cleo's do great when the fish are aggressive and looking for meat.  Always tips with shiners.  I have even used regular ball head jigs with plastics and shiners to catch them.

Best of luck and I hope you get to enjoy a fresh walleye dinner soon.