Gear review

After a 1.5 years of use , from ice fishing which was the intention, to striper , the rapala grip scale gets a thumbs down from me.
I'm looking at more lip grip scissor type strictly for ice.
Sticking your thumb in a Lakers mouth sucks, it's gill plate is sketchy. I'd prefer to lip them outta the hole

I guess I just like to guesstimate (on the high side ) so I don't have a scale. I have looked but never had the urge to but. Thanks for the review. p.s. the Auger fell through so back to drilling by hand

Rich, If you are looking for an inexpensive solution take a gander at these www.thefishgrip.net.  I picked one up on Ebay a few years ago and they work fine.  If you are looking to weigh your catch Boga grips are the best but pricey.

HT, the overall length of the gripper is 8-10 inches.  Considering the cost it's worth a shot for ice fishing as well as on the boat.

Yea I had a gaff and used it once. Not a fan and they are illegal to have on lake George.
Thanks for the info all the way around. I'm gonna try the scissor type and if it don't work for me then I'll get the Berkley one

A gaff isn't all bad. They actually are less obtrusive to a pike then many ways I've seen but it also requires a good user. I'm not that good either way so I'm looking at a liping tool that will grip and pull.

I really don't have any new gear required for my upcoming adventures this season.
I used an amaristep doghouse hunting blind this season and liked it well. @ $49.00 I think it's a good product. The 1 I used is 2 seasons old and left in woods from Sept until I'm done hunting. The Windows can be brought down low enough to sit in a camp chair and shoot a crossbow or gun or use Only the small windows for just a gun . Only drawback i found is trying to fold the spring steel back into its bag .
I'm going to be watching for late season sales. If it's right I'd probably get 3 of them.
If not I plan on 2 for next season.
Sitting in a tree is getting cold, old and tiresome at times.

That it should. In reality with 30 mph winds and snow, let's just say it was a cartoon scene, lol.
Given that, I'll take the hassle.

New review.
Knife sharpener. I been a stone and hone guy. Tried some other methods without liking them until this hit my cutting table last week.
I have old steel and newer stainless knives.
So far I have put 4 bandaids on my fingers since using.
Thoughts ? I got 1 today for $7.00

I use a similar product to sharpen broadheads but also found it useful for putting a quick edge on knives.

I have two new reviews. Both products I have used for at least a season or year and recommend them..
First are muck boots.
I have the chore boots and have worn them through mud season and hunting where I cover a lot of walking.
I was apprehensive about walking and chafing but neither was an issue. These will be tested on the ice this season as well.
I did get cold toes a few times while sitting but easily remedying with heat packs or better insulating socks with layer protection.
As for the boot itself, I'm sold and my pack boots just sit idle.

Second are ice cleats.
I've done a bunch in the past that would fall apart from the get go or cost a bunch of money to only break sooner than later anyway.
These Yuedge chain/spikes have worked very well for me in some heavy use with very good traction. I have used them 1.5 seasons so far and they still are in great shape.
My cost 2 years ago was $11.00 to the door.
I have the 10 points model, I see the 12pt are $18.00 to the door today.
The 10pt have been great to me and i will probably get the 12pt as a spare just in case they are no longer available.
I'm not saying these are River cleats but they are great ice cleats , even around the house work.
While I looked, I can't find what size mine are , I wear a size 10 boot .

Update.
I actually just found these Yuedge 18pt cleats to the door for $14.99 If you don't mind Orange color. I prefer it so I can find and just ordered 2 pair. 1 will be a gift

Just a note. Mine are actual Muck brand and a composite toe. Our work place requires toe protection. Many people at work wear them daily as work boots in the winter and that's how I got turned on to them.
I been using them as daily chore , hunting and earns boots. Again im a fan since owning them this spring. They are comfortable and durable

As l gather my gear together, next review will be gloves. Winter ice and chores.

I got a few things from Gander before it closed and will post up on those when I use them on the ice.  Thanks HT I like this thread

Got the New Yuedge cleats today. Ordered a large and XL. My mucks are size 10. The large fit but could be a struggle in cold weather. Mine will stay attached for the most part. I got the XL for my son with a size 13. They look bigger and hope they fit but won't know yet.
I'm guessing my other pair are XL and that's my suggestion for winter boots size 10 and above

Can't wait for the knife review. I'm looking for a cordless replacement of my American angler. It served(s) well but needs a cord

Muck boots:
You bring up a great point, my feet sweat as well and there is no place for moisture to disperse in the foot part very well.
I'd suggest a odor insert, inner sock liner and once you set up, change your regular socks to your wool or waders socks if stationary.
I was out on ice in-22 with wind on Thursday and did not have to use heat packs in my boot. I didn't change my socks while deer hunting and it was better this time by far.

New review:
I know there are many balaclava on the market and have tried super expensive $80.00) ones to crappy cheap ones.
Mine is 3 years old now and been given everything the weather has . It's a standard for our workers who endure day and night outdoors. They are a very good product at about $10.00
Mine is called in ferno

True I was thinking of a new head for mine but since several places in town have them for close to internet price I will let them hold it for me. . Was going to send mine to get sharpened but between shipping both ways and 20$ its cloas to a new one.