We got it all, from the best one man ice shelter to the best hub style shelters- read on & get to know what it takes to get what you want & at the best prices
What does it take to have one of the Best ice fishing shelter ? Would you like to have the best whenever you want to? Well, then you are definitely at the #1 site.
When it comes to sheltering yourself against the hostile winds, you’ll definitely need the strongest and firmest and it is best that this be only the most portable choice.
In this article, we are going to have a look at some of the things you should take into consideration prior to making your selection of an ice shelter. In addition to this, we’ll also have a look at some of the best picks of 2024. Without much ado, lets first have a look at the ice shelter review.
Modern portable ice shelters are a huge breakthrough to ice fishing. Owing to the fact that you’ll be able to store and transport your gear and at the same time spend time out in the snow protected from the cold, you should definitely get yourself one of these. With each passing season, their prices are coming down and their benefits are recognized due to the different variations in construction.
The 10 Best Ice Fishing Shelters In 2024
Knowing what you ought to look for in the best ice fishing shelters, let’s now move on to looking at 10 of the best choices of 2024.
1. Eskimo Quickfish 2 Ice Shelter
Eskimo Quickfish 2 Ice Shelter
Looking for one of the most durable? Then this might just be the best 2 man ice fishing shelter for you. Coming with a setup size of 44 x 8 x 8 inches and an elbow room of 76 x 76, this stands out as one of the best ice fishing shelters in its class.
When it comes to durability for use, it is worth mentioning that this ice fishing shelter has got 300D ice-tight fabric with a thread count that is 59 % greater than comparable shelters.
Weighing only 18 pounds, this ice fishing shelter will be easy enough for you to drag along simply by hand along the snow.
Speaking of the weight, the Eskimo Quickfish Ice Shelter comes with 6 self-tapping ice anchors that are easy for you to have a grip on and in addition to this, they will not bend under pressure whatsoever.
Pros
- Comes with an ice tight fabric that has got 59 % higher thread count which in turn guarantees you long term use.
- Adjustable ventilation- this ice shelter boasts of having 4 detachable hook and loop windows.
- On the door is a strong and durable YKK zipper that will be able to stand up to even the toughest weather conditions.
Cons
- Though they are able to support the weight of the ice shelter, the poles may give in when the weather is windy.
2. Eskimo Fatfish 949 Insulated Ice Shelter
Eskimo Fatfish 949 Insulated Ice Shelter
Being able to know where you are being quite important especially when you do not have one stationary fishing spot. Taking this into consideration, the Eskimo Fatfish 949 Insulated Ice Shelter was constructed with the capability of GPS connectivity hence you’ll always know where you are.
To carter for a better viewing configuration, this ice shelter comes with 6 large removable windows that will definitely give you an awesome view of the outside.
For easy access and owing to the fact that this ice shelter will be able to accommodate 3-4 people optimally, it has two doors that are on opposite sides of the shelter.
The 6 self-tapping ice anchors will be able to hold the shelter in place and in addition to this, they won’t bend under pressure.
Pros
- Comes with 6 self-taping ice anchors with the best grip and support under pressure.
- Fully insulated with IQ insulated fabric for 35% more warmth.
- For better viewing configuration, the ice shelter comes with 6 removable windows.
Cons
- The only set back with this shelter is that it does not come with a floor which will leave you somehow vulnerable to the cold snow.
3. Eskimo Quickfish 3 Ice Shelter
Eskimo Quickfish 3 Ice Shelter
Having a good ventilation is one of the features that should not be overlooked if you want to have the best ice fishing shelter. Due to this, the Eskimo Quickfish 3Ice Shelter comes with removable windows which will allow you to easily be able to adjust your shelter’s ventilation.
When it comes to the storage of your fishing gear, the mesh pockets on the sides will always ensure that they are always at your reach and safely kept.
To hold the ice shelter in place, there is a heavy-duty material sewn over the corner joints for reinforcement purposes. To add on to the strength of the ice shelter, the self-taping ice anchors are easier for you to have a grip on and in addition to this, they cannot bend under pressure whatsoever.
Pros
- The joints are sewn with heavy duty material for reinforcement purposes.
- The self-tapping ice anchors are gua With the storage mesh pockets, you’ll be able to securely and conveniently have your fishing gear stored.
- Ranteed to remain in position even under the greatest pressure.
Cons
- If it’s too cold, you’ll be at a disadvantage as this model is not insulated.
4. Eskimo Fatfish Six Sided Insulated Ice Shelter
Eskimo Fatfish Six Sided Insulated Ice Shelter
Sometimes, numbers are the determining factor prior to making your purchase of an ice fishing shelter. Having this factor in mind, the Eskimo Fatfish Six-Sided Insulated Ice Shelter has been constructed in such a way that it can be able to accommodate a maximum of 7 anglers.
Owing to the fact that it is 115”x115”x78” in measurement and with the elbow room of 112”x112”, there will be plenty of room for you and your fellow anglers within this ice shelter.
Being fully insulated with IQ Insulated fabric, you’ll be able to get 35% more warmth which is a huge advantage in the winter cold.
The 10 large removable windows allow for a better viewing configuration of the outside.
Pros
- 9 self-taping ice anchors hence easier for you to have a grip on and won’t give in under pressure whatsoever.
- Fully insulated with IQ fabric for 35% more warmth.
- With the high holding capacity of 5-7 persons, you won’t have to worry about space at all.
Cons
- Though well-constructed, the eyelets that secure the shelter on the ice are not that strong.
5. Eskimo QuickFlip 2 Ice Shelter with Versa Top Mounted Chairs
Eskimo QuickFlip 2 Ice Shelter with Versa Top Mounted Chairs
Looking for the best flip ice fishing shelter? Then this might just be what you are after. With the comfortable fixed versa seats constructed with a teartuff mesh and high strength steel frame, you’ll be kept comfortable on the ice all day.
The stronger hinge aluminum poles encased in a double walled hinge bracket are able to add on to the strength of the shelter and the good thing about these is that they do not add on to the overall weight.
As compared to the other shelters, the thread count on this shelter is 59% higher and the fabric is the 300D ice tight fabric. With such, durability will be at its best.
The storage mesh and pockets on the shelter allow you to keep all your essential fishing gear at your reach and in addition to this, there is a pull rope that comes with the shelter for easy portability.
Pros
- Being constructed with the 300D ice tight fabric, the thread count is 59% higher as compared to that of the average fabric hence better durability.
- Having storage mesh and pockets allows you to keep all your important fishing equipment at your reach.
- When it comes to portability, this ice shelter has got a pull rope included which will make it easy for you to transport it.
Cons
- Does not come with a towing adapter.
6. Eskimo Fatfish 9416 Ice Shelter
Eskimo Fatfish 9416 Ice Shelter
Though it is easy for you to set up and move it around with you, the good thing about this ice shelter is that it will be able to provide you with ample fishing space.
With as much as 9 self-taping anchors, the grip is at its best and in addition to this, the anchors will not bend under pressure whatsoever which will definitely give you the best fishing session.
As compared to other shelters, the 300 Denier Ice Tight fabric has got a 59% higher thread count which means that it is one of the most durable and will remain intact even when the weather is hostile.
A better view of the outside is always recommended for those who love ice fishing. Taking this into account, the Eskimo Fatfish 9416 Ice Shelter comes with 10 outstanding large removable windows for a better viewing configuration.
Pros
- Comes with two doors on opposite sides of the shelter for easier access.
- 7-9-person capacity with a setup size of 94″ x 167″ and 80″ high and elbow room of 99″ x 172″. The best choice if you want the best time with your fellow anglers.
- For a better view of the outside, this ice shelter comes with 10 large removable windows.
Cons
- Does not come with a floor hence the melting ice will definitely be a problem.
7. Clam Bigfoot XL2000 Pop-Up Ice Shelter 9128
Clam Bigfoot XL2000 Pop-Up Ice Shelter 9128
For the best portability, the Clam Bigfoot XL2000 Pop-Up Ice Shelter 9128 comes with an oversized carry bag. This means that you’ll be able to pack it up just as fast as you would unpack it hence the best fishing sessions.
Durability is definitely what sets apart the good ones from the bad ones. Taking this into account, the Clam Bigfoot XL2000 Pop-Up Ice Shelter 9128 was manufactured with a super tough 600 Denier fabric 13. This is twice as tough as most of the other models in its class.
More often than not, you may encounter windy conditions while you are out fishing. To ensure that this does not disrupt your fishing, there are convenient ice anchor straps and strap pockets. The straps can be reinforced when need be to keep the shelter in place.
Pros
- The 11-mm super duty flex tested pole are able to support the weight of the tent conveniently.
- With the ice anchor straps, the shelter will be held in place even when the weather is windy.
- For durability, there is nothing as good as the 600 Denier fabric which is twice as tough as compared to that on the other models.
Cons
- The only problem with this shelter is that you’ll have to stand up so as to be able to see out the windows.
8. Ice Cube Two Man Instant Shelter by Thunder Bay
Ice Cube Two Man Instant Shelter by Thunder Bay
Ease of transportation is one of the features which distinguish the best ice shelters for fishing from the worst. To ensure that you’ll be able to move around with this ice shelter most conveniently, the manufacturers included a carry bag with this shelter in which you can also carry your other fishing accessories.
The hook and loop fastened windows ca easily be adjusted and in addition to this, you’ll also be able to replace them when need be.
To ensure that the shelter will be held in place firmly, it is worth mentioning that it comes with 6 self-taping ice anchors.
Sometimes, there may need to keep the sunlight out. With the blackout coating, you can keep the sunlight out unless you want it in the fishing shelter.
So as to ensure the ice shelter remains standing even in the most hostile weather, its construction with a 300 Denier fabric ensures that the wind is blocked at all times.
Pros
- Hook and loop fastened windows- these are easily adjustable just as they are replaceable.
- With the blackout coating, you’ll be able to regulate the light within the tent to your own desire.
- Comes with a carry back within which you’ll be able to carry the shelter and other fishing accessories.
Cons
- The only setback seems to be on the door- to some, it may be a little bit small.
9. Eskimo FF767 FatFish 2-3 Person Pop Up Portable Ice Shelter
Eskimo FF767 FatFish 2-3 Person Pop Up Portable Ice Shelter
Owing to the fact that this fishing shelter comes in a hub design, it will be quite easy for you to put up as well as take down when need be.
With the six large Velcro windows, you’ll have plenty of ventilation and in addition to this, the fact that they are removable allow you to have plenty of viewing opportunities.
So as to hold the shelter in position, there are six strong, heavy duty ice anchors that ensure it remains in place even when the winds are hostile.
The large, mesh storage pockets allow you to keep all the essential fishing gear at your disposal. Other than just being able to keep your fishing gear handy, you’ll also get 60% more fishing area upon settling for this ice shelter.
Pros
- 6 strong heavy duty ice anchors to keep the tent in place at all times.
- Comes with six large Velcro windows that give you the best ventilation.
- Having a hub design, it will be easy for you to erect the shelter and take it down when need be.
Cons
- Some may find the tent wanting when it comes to the headroom available to you.
10. Eskimo Fatfish Six Sided Ice Shelter
Eskimo Fatfish Six Sided Ice Shelter
What does it really take to have the best ice shelters for fishing? Even though an ice shelter may have the biggest carrying capacity, it would be as good as none if durability would not match up to its holding capacity.
Taking this into account, the construction of the Eskimo Fatfish Six-Sided Ice Shelter entails a 300 Denier ice tight fabric. This comes with a thread count that is 59% greater than the average fabric.
So as to keep all the essential fishing gear handy, the mesh pockets at the sides allow you to have all your utilities at your reach.
So as to cater for 360 degrees viewing, the tent comes with large removable windows. These are definitely what you need if you want to have the best view of what is outside the ice shelter.
The stronger hub design can only be credited to the all metal ball and socket design and the large fiberglass poles.
Pros
- Comes with an oversized zipper bag- makes it easier and efficient for you to transport the shelter
- Comes with large and removable windows that allow for 360 degrees of viewing.
- With the 300 Denier ice, tight fabric, this ice shelter proves to be 59% more efficient as compared to other models in its class.
Cons
- The tent allows water to leak in via the holes around the seams
Why Should You Go For A Portable Ice Shelter?
One of the good things about the modern ice shelters is that they are as simple as they are practical just as they are portable hence enabling you to easily be able to transport them to and from the ice. the fact that you can be able to pull them by hand or using a snow machine.
Owing to the fact that you’ll be able to have undisrupted mobility, portable ice shelters remain to be the best choice for the non-stationary anglers.
What Material Choice Would You Go For?
The portable ice shelters are normally manufactured from a number of materials but the most common of these include nylon, canvas or poly-cotton.
However, before you settle on the type of material to use, it is normally advised that you take into consideration the level of strength it comes with and also how thick it is since these are what set apart the best ice shelters from the bad ones.
Owing to the fact that you’ll want to settle for the best ice fishing shelter portable choice, going for the thickest and the toughest material is the best way to go.
Still, on the nature of the material, it is best that you go for the dark ones. These will be able to take in most of the sun’s heat. This will in turn cut on the amount of money you’d spend on keeping the optimum level of heat within the ice shelter.
Other than just being durable, it is best that you go for the ice shelters that are comfortable as well. One of the ways via which this can be made possible is ensuring it is breathable.
Such ice fishing shelters will ensure that the air circulation within is at its best. Water resistance should also be given top priority for obvious reasons- the humid nature under which you’ll be doing your fishing.
Do Consider The Weight Of The Shelter?
If you are a mobile angler, then weight might just be one of the most important things for you to watch out for before you choose an ice shelter. Simply put, the lighter your shelter, the better your fishing sessions are going to be.
If you will find it hard to pack up and move for a better fishing spot, then you’ll be no different from the stationary anglers.
In general, you can be able to easily pull the shelters that weigh less than 100lbs by foot but at the same time, you may have to consider the fact that snow and other equipment you have with you can make this somehow a hard task for you.
What About The Seating?
Owing to the fact that you may spend most of your day sitting, it is best that you prioritize the nature of your seating. Flip ice shelters are normally the best choice for you to go for in this case. The best flip ice shelter will come with built-in padded seats with back rests.
What Does It Take To Have The Right Size?
If you prefer to go fishing on your own, then going for a one-man shelter will suit you best. On the contrary, if you don’t go alone, then you are going to need more room hence you’ll need the best 2 man ice fishing shelter.
Unlike the one-man shelter, a two-man ice fishing shelter will be difficult for you to carry around. When you need more room such as when you are dealing with an extended family or many angling comrades, you’re going to need, say a four or a six-ma cabin system which can be used to connect two smaller shelters.
Will You Need A View Of The Outside?
One of the features that you can hardly miss in today’s ice fishing shelters are the windows. Without these, it may be impossible for you to be able to have a look at the weather outside as would be seeing the things that are happening around you. Undoubtedly, the larger the windows, the better off you’ll be.
Windows may however not always be a good thing. For shallow water sight fishing, you may find it efficient to darken the shelter so that you can be able to see better in the water below. Going for the windows that have got covers will definitely make this possible.
How Will You Haul Your Portable Ice Shelter?
As much as you may have a portable ice shelter, you may need a way to carry it around depending on how heavy it is. The two main options that are open to you is either use brute strength or alternatively, you can pull it behind in a snow machine. In either case, you are going to need a built-in sled machine on the bottom of your shelter.
Most of the portable ice shelter in the market are able to fold down into compact sleds which are molded out of polyethylene. The good thing about these is that they are able to hold all the essentials for a day out on the ice. always ensure that the sleds you have are strong enough to support all the weight.
If you are going to pull the sled by hand, it is best that you ensure the ropes in use are not only thick enough for you to use, but they should also be of the correct length. Going for the correct length will ensure that the sled does not nip at your heels which will undoubtedly give you an easy time on the road.
Going for a sled with a tapered front will ride more easily over snow as compared to a sled with no tapered front end.
How Will You Keep Yourself Warm?
Owing to the fact that you are going to spend most of the time out on the ice, it is best that you consider keeping yourself warm. Normally, the best way to make this possible is to ensure that you have a propane heater with you and a safe one at that.
There are new variations in the designs of the propane heaters and the safest design of these are the catalytic heaters. The good thing about them is that they are able to offer you flame free heat which makes them ideal for use in your ice shelter.
Always Consider The Design Of Your Ice Shelter.
Another factor that you ought to take into consideration upon looking for the best ice shelter is the nature of the design. The most common designs include the Hub-style shelters, the Flip-Style shelters, and the Cabin-style shelters.
The Hub-style shelters
Unlike the other two designs, Hub-style shelters are able to offer ample fishing space and at the same time go for the least amount of money.
The only problem with going for this ice shelter is that it may difficult for one person to be able to set up in the windy days but once it is in position, it does lock in like a strong tent. Also, it does take you some time to have it up hence not the best choice if you like to move around searching for the best fishing spots hence it isn’t the best ice fishing shelter portable choice.
The Cabin-style shelter
What sets apart the cabin-shelter from the rest is the fact that it comes with a built-in floor which undoubtedly is a huge advantage to anglers. With a built-in floor, you will be shielded from the cold ice floor and more so, you will find the heaters more effective to use as compared to when you would go to a shelter with no floor.
Being lightweight, the set-up of the ice shelters and framework is not similar to that of an ordinary tent which makes it easy for you to bring them out in the ice. on the other hand, because they set up like a tent, it will not be easy at all for you to move around especially in the snow.
The Flip-style shelters
If you want to get to your full angling potential and are in need of the best angling mobility, then going for the flip-style ice shelters ought to do the trick.
Being highly portable, the best flip ice shelters can easily be set up or broken down. The flip ice-shelters come with their own locked-down sleds on which you’ll obviously have all your gear.
Upon reaching your destination, you can easily be able to lock its poles into position after which you can then flip the shelter over the top of where you’ll be doing your fishing.
In the flip are padded seats for comfort and more so, the best flip ice shelter will come with storage areas that’ll aid in keeping most of your gear secure. With their solid framework, they are able to withstand the wind exceptionally well.
Final Verdict
With 10 of the best ice shelters for fishing and having gone through one of the best ice fishing shelter reviews, all that’s left is making your selection. With portability and durability being taken into account, you’ll undoubtedly have the best product.
Prior to making your choice of a fishing shelter, do have a look at every detail. Regarding the number of people, you’ll want to fish and ensure that you have the best size with you.
Summing up, it is always advised that you have a look at the first-hand reviews of other users of your desired ice shelter since this way you’ll know what to expect and what not to expect. You can also check out a great article on fishing accessories such as fishing rods, fishing reels, fishing watches, fishing shoes, fishing gloves, fishing bait, fishing knives, fishing lines, and fishing pants that you can buy for your fishing needs.
