Portable vs. Semi-Stationary
Choose a portable ice fishing shelter if you anticipate travel during the winter. Sampling a frozen stream here and there, and maybe also frozen lakes across the way is easily done with shelters that you can set up and take down quickly. Conversely, a semi-stationary shelter is an excellent choice for the angler who enjoys a certain spot and returns to it week after week, for as long as the ice will carry him. Once put in place, these shelters will remain on the lake until you remove them for storage in spring.
Pick the Right Size
The best ice fishing shelters are those that are sufficiently spacious for the number of anglers who will use them. For example, if you enjoy fishing by yourself or with a friend, pick a two person shelter specifically designed to accommodate two adults. On the flip side, if you like to bring a number of friends along, a four person fishing cover is ideal. Remember that the manufacturer size description is only a guideline, and depending on the size of the friends you invite, you may have more or less room than indicated.
Keep it Light
Remember that you are set up on an ice surface; do not overdo the weight of the shelter, and you will not have to worry about cracks in the ice emanating from the hole. A good rule of thumb is to keep the complete ice fishing shelter weight at or below 80 pounds. Added components, such as heaters or coolers, add their own weight. Overall, you should stay under 100 pounds in weight when it comes to gear. A great example is the Fish Trap Pro that weighs in at only 53 pounds.
Avoid a Floor with Precut Holes
You are sure to notice that many ice fishing shelters come with a wood or plastic floor that already has the outline of an ice hole cut into it. The idea of providing a non skid surface for standing and storing gear is great, but it also greatly curtails the ice surface you work with. What is more, it takes away the view of the ice -- or below the ice -- for telltale aquatic movements. The best fishing shelter is the one with the least amount of artificial flooring.
