5 Best Ice Fishing Shelters (2024)
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Additional Ice Fishing Gear to Consider
Ice fishing is a pursuit that demands resilience in the face of frigid temperatures, and a crucial aspect of this experience is the choice of the best ice fishing shelter you can get for your specific fishing conditions. Let’s explore the different types of ice fishing shelters and their features then we’ll take a look at our top 5 picks for best ice fishing shanties to protect you from the brutal winter conditions so you can concentrate on catching more fish.
Types of Ice Fishing Shelters
Flip-Over Ice Fishing Shelters
Flip-over ice fishing shelters are a popular choice for ice anglers due to their portability, ease of setup, and durability. They are also relatively affordable, making them a good option for budget-minded anglers.
Pros:
Portability: Flip-over shelters are lightweight and compact, making them easy to transport on the ice. Many models can be folded up into a sled, making them even easier to move around.
Ease of setup: Flip-over shanties are very quick and easy to set up. Simply unfold the shelter, flip it over, and secure it to the ice. There are no poles or hubs to assemble, making them a great option for anglers who want to get on the ice quickly and easily.
Durability: Flip-over shelters are made from durable materials that can withstand the harsh winter weather. The frames are typically made from aluminum or steel, and the shelters are covered with a waterproof, rip-stop fabric.
Affordability: Flip-over shelters are one of the most affordable types of ice fishing shelters. They are a good option for anglers who are new to ice fishing or who are on a budget.
Cons:
Limited space: Flip-over shelters are typically smaller than other types of ice fishing shelters, such as hub-style shelters. This can make them cramped for anglers who are fishing with a group or who are storing a lot of gear.
Wind resistance: Flip-over shelters can be susceptible to wind. The wind can catch the shelter and flip it over, or it can cause the shelter to sway back and forth. This can be a problem in windy conditions.
Limited ventilation: Flip-over shanties can be stuffy and hot, especially if there are multiple anglers inside. This can be a problem in warm conditions.
Hub Ice Fishing Shelters
Hub ice fishing shelters are considered one of the best fishing huts for ice anglers because they are lightweight, easy to set up, and relatively inexpensive. However, there are also some drawbacks to hub shelters, so it is important to weigh the pros and cons before making a purchase.
Pros:
Easy to set up and break down: Hub shelters are typically set up in a matter of minutes, and they are just as easy to break down when the day is done. This is a major advantage over flip-over shelters, which can be more difficult to set up and take down.
Lightweight and portable: Hub shelters are very lightweight and portable, making them easy to transport to the ice. This is especially important for anglers who do not have access to a snowmobile or ATV.
Spacious and comfortable: Hub shanties offer more space and headroom than flip-over shelters. This makes them more comfortable for anglers who are fishing with more than one person or who want to have more room to move around.
Relatively inexpensive: Hub shelters are more affordable than flip-over shelters, making them a good option for budget-minded anglers.
Cons:
Less durable than flip-over shelters: Hub shelters are not as durable as flip-over shelters. They are more susceptible to damage from wind and snow, and they may not last as long.
Can be difficult to set up in windy conditions: Hub shelters can be difficult to set up in windy conditions. The wind can catch the fabric of the shelter and make it difficult to assemble the poles.
May not be as warm as flip-over shelters: Hub shelters may not be as warm as flip-over shelters. This is because they have less insulation and they are more susceptible to drafts.
Cabin-Style Ice Fishing Shelters
Cabin-style ice fishing shanties are a popular choice for anglers who want a spacious and comfortable shelter. They are typically larger than other types of shelters, and they have a solid floor that helps to keep the heat in. A cabin-style shanty is basically like an ice fishing house in a sense.
Pros:
Spacious and comfortable
Solid floor keeps heat in
Easy to set up and take down
Relatively inexpensive
Can accommodate multiple anglers
Provides protection from the elements
Cons:
Can be bulky and difficult to transport
Not as wind-resistant as other types of shelters
May not be suitable for solo anglers
Can be more expensive than other types of shelters
Material Matters
Fabric Choices
Choosing the right fabric for your ice fishing shelter is crucial, impacting thermal insulation and durability.
300D Oxford Fabric: This is a durable, water-resistant, and UV-protected fabric that is often used for the outer shell of ice fishing shelters. It is also relatively lightweight and easy to transport.
Polyester Fabric: Polyester fabric is another common choice for ice fishing shelters. It is lightweight, water-resistant, and breathable. It is also relatively inexpensive.
Canvas Fabric: Canvas fabric is a heavy-duty, water-resistant fabric that is often used for the outer shell of high-end ice fishing shelters. It is very durable and can withstand the harshest weather conditions.
Vinyl Fabric: Vinyl fabric is a waterproof and durable fabric that is often used for the floor of ice fishing shelters. It is easy to clean and can withstand heavy foot traffic.
Frame Materials
The frame is the backbone of any shelter, determining its strength and stability.
Steel: Steel is a strong and durable material that is well-suited for ice fishing shelters. It is also relatively inexpensive. However, steel can be heavy, which can make it difficult to transport.
Aluminum: Aluminum is a lightweight and corrosion-resistant material that is also strong. It is a good choice for ice fishing shelters that need to be portable. However, aluminum can be more expensive than steel.
Fiberglass: Fiberglass is a lightweight and durable material that is also flexible. This makes it a good choice for ice fishing shelters that need to be able to withstand the wind. Fiberglass is also relatively inexpensive.
PVC: PVC is a lightweight and inexpensive material that is also easy to work with. However, PVC is not as strong as steel or aluminum, and it is not as flexible as fiberglass.
Size and Capacity
Individual vs. Group Shelters
Deciding between an individual or group shelter depends on your angling preferences and the company you keep on the ice. Obviously, larger fishing huts will be more difficult to transport and set up than shelters designed for solo anglers. On the flip side, you'll most likely have more people with you to help you set up a larger shelter.
Additional Features to Consider
Ventilation Systems
Ventilation is crucial for safety and comfort when ice fishing inside an enclosed shelter. Proper ventilation ensures a fresh air supply, removes harmful gases, and prevents condensation buildup, which can lead to mold growth and other issues.
Fresh Air Supply: Adequate ventilation continuously brings fresh air into the shelter, replenishing oxygen and removing carbon dioxide (CO2) produced by occupants and heating devices. CO2 buildup can cause symptoms like headaches, dizziness, nausea, and even loss of consciousness in high concentrations.
Harmful Gas Removal: Ventilation helps eliminate fumes and gases from heating devices, such as propane stoves or lanterns. These gases can pose serious health risks, including carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning, which can be fatal.
Condensation Prevention: Proper ventilation reduces moisture buildup and condensation inside the shelter. Condensation can lead to dampness, mold growth, and damage to equipment and personal belongings.
Comfort and Enjoyment: Good ventilation contributes to a comfortable and enjoyable ice fishing experience by maintaining a pleasant indoor environment, free from stale air, odors, and excessive humidity.
Flooring Options
Insulated flooring:
Insulated flooring is a good option if you want to keep your feet warm and comfortable in cold weather. It is made with a layer of insulation that helps to trap heat and prevent it from escaping through the floor. This can make a big difference in how warm you feel, especially if you are fishing in sub-zero temperatures.
Insulated flooring is also a good option if you want to reduce condensation on the floor of your shanty. Condensation can make your shelter feel damp and uncomfortable, and it can also lead to mold and mildew growth. Insulated flooring can help to prevent condensation by acting as a barrier between the cold air outside and the warm air inside your shelter.
However, insulated flooring is more expensive than non-insulated flooring. It is also heavier and bulkier, which can make it more difficult to transport and set up your shelter.
Non-insulated flooring:
Non-insulated flooring is a good option if you are on a budget or if you are looking for a lightweight and portable flooring option. It is also a good option if you do not fish in very cold weather. Non-insulated flooring is not as effective at keeping your feet warm as insulated flooring.
However, you can still stay warm by wearing warm socks and boots, and by using a heater in your shanty. Non-insulated flooring is also less effective at preventing condensation than insulated flooring. However, you can reduce condensation by opening the vents in your shelter and by using a dehumidifier.
Our Picks for the 5 Best Ice Fishing Shelters
Best Overall: Eskimo Outreach 450XD Blackout
Best for Large Group: Eskimo Outreach 850XD
Best High-End: CLAM X-800
Best Mid-Range: Eskimo Quickfish 3
Best Budget: Frabill HQ200
Best Overall: Eskimo Outreach 450XD Blackout
Best for Large Group: Eskimo Outreach 850XD
The Eskimo Outbreak 850XD Ice Fishing Shelter is a great choice for anglers who need a spacious, comfortable, and durable shelter. It is easy to set up and take down, and it has a number of features that make it ideal for ice fishing.
Pros:
Spacious interior with 114 square feet of fishable area
Center height of 6.7 feet
"No Trip" door panel that zips open from ice level
High-loft insulated StormShield fabric
Easy to set up and take down
Durable construction
Affordable price
Great for ice fishing or camping
Cons:
Can be heavy to carry, especially if you are walking a long distance
The floor is not insulated, so it can get cold on your feet
Overall, the Eskimo Outbreak 850XD Ice Fishing Shelter is a great value for the price. It is a spacious, comfortable, and durable shelter that is perfect for ice fishing or camping.
Best High-End: CLAM X-800
The Clam X-800 Thermal Hub Ice Fishing Shelter is a great option for anglers who are looking for a spacious and comfortable shelter that is easy to set up. It is also very warm, thanks to its 90 grams of insulation per square meter and Full Thermal Trap Technology.
Pros:
Spacious: The X-800 has a total fishable area of 128 square feet, which will comfortably accommodate up to 6-7 anglers.
Easy to set up: The X-800 is a hub-style shelter, which means that it pops up in seconds.
Warm: The X-800 is very well insulated, and it features Full Thermal Trap Technology to help retain heat and reduce condensation.
Durable: The X-800 is made from tough 900-total-denier fabric.
Features: The X-800 includes a number of features, such as two doors, an oversized skirt for ample snow banking, and a dimmable LED light.
Cons:
Price: The X-800 is a bit more expensive than some other ice fishing shelters.
Size: The X-800 is a bit bulky and heavy, so it is not the best option for anglers who are hiking or snowmobiling to their fishing spot.
Overall, the CLAM X-800 Thermal Hub Ice Fishing Shelter is a great option for anglers who are looking for a spacious, comfortable, and warm shelter that is easy to set up. It is a bit more expensive than some other shelters, but it is worth the price for the features and quality that it offers.
Best Mid-Range: Eskimo Quickfish 3
The Eskimo Quickfish 3 Ice Fishing Shelter is a great option for anglers looking for a portable, affordable, and easy-to-set-up shelter. It is spacious enough for up to 3 anglers and features 2 doors, 4 windows, and 2 vents for ventilation. The shelter is also made of durable materials that can withstand the harsh winter conditions.
Pros:
Easy to set up and take down
Spacious and comfortable for up to 3 anglers
Durable construction
Affordable
Includes a carrying bag for easy transport
Cons:
Not insulated so it can get cold in the winter
The windows are small and don't let in a lot of light
Overall, the Eskimo Quickfish 3 Ice Fishing Shelter is a great value for the price. It is a versatile shelter that can be used for ice fishing, camping, or tailgating.
Best Budget:Frabill HQ200
The Frabill HQ200 Ice Fishing Shelter is a great option for anglers looking for a portable, durable, and affordable ice shelter.
Pros:
Easy to set up and take down
Lightweight and portable
Durable construction
Affordable
Ample fishable space
Well-placed windows and vents
Cons:
Not as insulated as some other shelters on the market
Can be difficult to set up in high winds
Overall, the Frabill HQ200 Ice Fishing Shelter is a great option for anglers who need a reliable and affordable shelter.
Related: Best Ice Fishing Rod & Reel Combos