How to Ice Fish With an Otter Shack

ice fishing equipment image by Inger Anne HulbÃ¦kdal from <a href='http://www.fotolia.com'>Fotolia.com</a>

An Otter portable fishing house, or shack, provides temporary housing and protection from harsh winds and low temperatures when ice fishing. Portable fishing houses vary in size from small to large, which equates to one to four people respectively. As of July 2010, a small Otter portable fishing house has set-up dimensions of 54 inches (L) by 77 inches (D) by 63 inches (H). Portable fishing houses can weigh between 50 and 95 pounds depending on the size and cost between $350 and $500 as of July 2010.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Step 1

Determine what size Otter portable fishing house you prefer and which features you'll need inside. Outfit your Otter shack with additional storage space, reinforced poles, heavy-duty fabric and draft skirts.

Step 2

Flip over the Otter portable fishing house, which attaches around the edge of your Otter sled. When the Otter shack is not in use, it will fold down to the side so it is out of the way. Lift the shack and flip it over the sled to access the shelter. Set up the poles per the manufacturer’s instructions so as to reinforce the shack during high winds.

Step 3

Store extra tackle and small gear inside the interior storage pouch. Extra gloves, eye protection, maps and small tools fit easily inside the storage pouch and will keep your Otter shack organized.

Step 4

Seal the top vents to reduce heat loss while inside the portable fishing house. Use the pull tab to close the zipper and seal the top vents. Windows and covers are also provided so visibility is not blocked when you are inside the shack.

Step 5

Fish from inside your Otter shack. Place the shack close to the hole you are fishing and set up a portable chair inside. Open the front zipper door all the way so you can move easily in and out of the shack. Cast your line into the hole and wait for a strike.

Tips & Warnings

Clean ice chunks and other obstructions from your fishing hole to avoid getting tangles in your fishing line.

Always wear thermal clothing and gloves when ice fishing to prevent heat loss in the body.

Resources

Article Written By Charlie Gaston

Charlie Gaston has written numerous instructional articles on topics ranging from business to communications and estate planning. Gaston holds a bachelor's degree in international business and a master's degree in communications. She is fluent in Spanish and has extensive travel experience.

Editor's Pick

Backcountry Camping Tips

You've already tried car and RV camping. You've camped at commercial campsites that had a convenient restroom and water supply. Now, you want to explore the road less traveled. Backcountry camping, also known as primitive camping, is a wonderful way to explore the remote...
More Backcountry Camping...
Popular Article

Beach Camping Near Pismo Beach, California

Pismo State Beach, California, has many attractions and activities including camping, swimming, hiking and wildlife viewing. Birdwatching is one of the primary activities in the area. The park also has the largest over-wintering colony of monarch butterflies in the natio...
More Beach Camping...
Featured Video

Common Sense Hiking Tips

The first and most fundamental thing is never hike alone. There are too many situations, especially as an unexperienced hiker, where you may find yourself without anyone to help you. So the buddy system works and applies very much in hiking.
More Camping Basics...