Keeping the hole open

[ralf]

We've got a perminant house on LOW and redrilling the holes is getting old. I seen a inflatable tube that could be put down an ice hole, and when inflated it would keep the hole open until next visit. Anyone know where to get these inflatables? (and do they work?)
Thanks

[Gadgetman]

You can get them at Reeds in Walker, they are called Hole Savers and yes they work unless the ice is too thick, which it is this time of year. They are only about 3 feet long.

[Ely Lake Expert]

Ralf,

Here is an easy and yet still effective method. Get 1 inch thick insulation and put that over the holes. It seems to work pretty effectivly for me.

Ely lake expert