Our Top Pick:
Thermal Ice Fishing Shelter by Trophy Strike
★★★★★
Best Value:
Insulated Ice Fishing by Eskimo
★★★★★
Editor’s Choice:
Ice Cube Portable Shelter by Thunderbay
★★★★★
If you like ice fishing, it is crucial to have a tent, shelter, or shanty. While a shanty is not insulated to keep warm inside, most of the products below come with ample insulation to keep out the cold winds. The best portable ice shelter should be strong enough to withstand the strong winds; it should also be easy to set up and pack away in a short time without too much effort.
Choosing the best available in the market is crucial for warmth and comfort during ice fishing. Most of these come with ample ventilation and insulation to suit various requirements, depending on the locations; choosing a lightweight, portable ice fishing shelter or tent is not advisable, as they may be too light and unable to support the strong winds.
| Quick overview | |
|---|---|
| Product Name | Price |
| #1 Thermal Ice Fishing Shelter by Trophy Strike | Check Price » |
| #2 Insulated Ice Fishing by Eskimo | Check Price » |
| #3 Ice Cube Portable Shelter by Thunderbay | Check Price » |
| #4 Portable Shelter for Ice Fishing by Eskimo | Check Price » |
| #5 Hub-Style Ice Fishing Shelter by Pexmor | Check Price » |
| #6 300 Denier Ice Fishing Shelter by Thunderbay | Check Price » |
| #7 Waterproof Portable Pop-Up Ice Fishing Shelter by Outsunny | Check Price » |
| #8 Portable Ice Fishing Shelter by Nordic Legend | Check Price » |
| #9 Pop-up Ice Fishing Shelter for Two by Tangkula | Check Price » |
| #10 Portable Ice Fishing Tent by Elkton | Check Price » |
Best Ice Fishing Tents and Shelters Reviews
#1. Thermal Ice Fishing Shelter by Trophy Strike
This shelter is one of the most popular ice fishing shelters available in the market. It is easy to transport and can be carried around in a convenient velcro bag. This ice shelter has been extensively tested by experts in the frozen lakes of the Rocky Mountain to ascertain its effectiveness and reliability.
This sturdy shelter ensures warmth with a small heater trapping the heat with its superior insulation. Also, on sunny days, the sun is strong enough to heat the tent and does not require additional heating until after sundown.
Product Specs
- 300 Denier shell
- 6 ice anchors and tie-downs
- 7/16″ (11mm) flex-tested poles
- 3 pounds
- Setup size: 70″ x 70″.
- Hub to hub size: 90″ x 90″
Why We Recommend This Product
This shelter offers Mylar insulation, which enables it to trap heat effectively. It is also made from a flame retardant material and durable and flexible poles to withstand the harshest conditions. This best ice fishing shelter has been extensively tested by experts.
Pros
- Superior Mylar thermal baffle ensures that there is no convective and evaporative heat loss
- Easy to setup
- Utmost durability and reliability
- Large snow skirt to get rid of draft
- Superbly priced
- Vents on the roof ensure ample ventilation without losing heat
- Large and spacious for two people with a lot of gear or three people with limited gear
Cons
- High windows
- Setup by one person may be difficult in high winds
Tip: Heater capacity of 4,000 to 9,000 BTU enables one to sit comfortably without gloves.
Info alert: The easy 6-anchor tie-downs come in a Velcro-secured storage bag for easy portability and setup.
#2. Insulated Ice Fishing Shelter by ESKIMO
This insulated shelter by Eskimo is a top-rated option for anglers. One of the most convenient features of this shelter is the trip-proof door that ensures safety with the fishing gear. The shelter sports a large flared base, perfect for a larger fishable area while keeping the interiors warm.
The material of the shelter, which is 600 Denier grey interior, works two ways; it not only brightens the interior but also reflects ambient light, making it easier to see. It also has PU backing for blocking light. The shelter has superior insulation with IQ insulation fabric, assuring anglers of up to 35% warmer environment than most products available in the market.
Product Specs
- Fishable area of 75 square feet
- Black and red
- 600 Denier grey interior
- 1 pound
- 139 x 138 x 80 inches
Why We Recommend This Product
This product has a large flared base, giving ample space for comfortable ice fishing. The superior IQ insulation and withstand high winds up to 25 mph while anchored. The Outbreak ice fishing shelter is extremely sturdy and spacious. The interior remains bright and warm while providing ample space for all activities.
Pros
- Superior IQ insulation prevents heat loss
- Large fiberglass poles and metal ball-socket connections, ensuring durability in high winds
- Include ice anchors
- Extremely spacious
- Removable window panels for convenience
- Has storage options for equipment and other essentials
- Zips down to the ice with superior YKK zippers
Cons
- Not waterproof
- Heavy to carry
- Large for transporting comfortably
Tip: The product offers a trip-proof design door which means that it has a full door with the zippers going down to the snow, ensuring safety for the occupants.
Info alert: The Outbreak comes with adjustable windows for controlled ventilation.
#3. Ice Cube Portable Shelter by Thunderbay
The Ice Cube shelter designed for three people is made from durable 300 denier fabric, essentially blocking strong winds. The shelter offers customers the option of adjustable windows with hook and loop fasteners; it is also made to ensure that it blocks light inside with a blackout coating.
This product is reasonably lightweight, making it comfortable to carry. The extra-wide skirting around the shelter keeps out the unwanted draft; with a heater inside the shelter, it provides a warm and cozy environment for the best ice fishing.
Product Specs
- 300 denier grey interior
- 2 pounds
- 90 x 90 x 80 inches
- 8 ice anchors (4 for the corner grommet and guy lines, respectively
Why We Recommend This Product
The product is reasonably priced and works well in low wind situations. The backpack carrying option is extremely comfortable with the right straps. The large skirting will keep out the draft, and the blackout interiors are great for sight fishing.
Pros
- Large skirting to keep draft out
- Offers 6 self-tapping ice anchors
- Blackout coating to keep light out
- Replaceable and adjustable windows
- Heavy-duty zippers
- Large hub that is moderately priced
- String fiberglass poles
- Cast aluminum hubs
- Reasonably lightweight and comes with a bag for easy to carry option
Cons
- Not easy to set up
- It can leak in the rain
- Windows are too high
- Heaters on high can create condensation, which may drip around the edges
- Can be difficult to set up in high winds
Tip: Durable and resilient, with heavy-duty zipper maintains the temperature, although it is not insulated.
Info alert: The Ice Cube is perfect for its price and is a convenient option for ice fishing.
#4. Portable Shelter for Ice Fishing by Eskimo
This large and spacious ice fishing shelter offers the perfect conditions for ice fishing. It comes in a convenient cinch bag and is lightweight and easy to carry. Durable fiberglass poles are easy to set up, so much so that the company assures customers of a 60-second setup time. It is large and can comfortably accommodate up to 6 people.
It has mesh storage pockets to keep equipment and belongings. The extra-long and wide skirting prevents the draft inside. It comes with reinforced corner joints for stability. When compared to the rest of the shelters in the market, this large capacity ice shelter is perfect in low wind conditions, and IQ insulation enables it to trap heat inside and keep the cold out.
Product Specs
- 65 pounds
- 94″ x 94″ and 80″
- Collapsed Size- 65 x 7.5 x 7.5 inches
- 300 Denier IceTight fabric
- Accommodates for 6
Why We Recommend This Product
This ice fishing shelter is suitable for low wind conditions and offers ample protection from the elements. It has storage options with mesh pockets, extra large and long skirting, and self-tapping ice anchors, making it a perfect choice for ice fishing enthusiasts.
Pros
- 300 Denier fabric with 59% higher thread count than other comparable shelters
- Can be set up within 60 seconds
- Is easy to transport and portable, fitting into a duffel bag
- Self-tapping ice anchors
- Grommets are located within the skirt, eliminating the requirement for a grommet tab
- Large skirting to keep out the draft
- Removable windows
- Solid poles with all-metal hubs
- Heavy-duty zippers that do not warp in the cold
Cons
- Weak grommet
- Cannot withstand high winds speeds of 15 to 25 mph
- Poles are not under warranty
- Poles can break easily or get distorted with extreme winds
- Can be difficult to set up in high winds
- Starts to leak with rain
- Thin fabric
Tip: Durable and resilient, with heavy-duty zippers that do not show ill-effects of dipping mercury. However, the shelter is not insulated.
Info alert: The shelter is a great purchase for warmer ice fishing conditions with low winds.
#5. Hub-Style Ice Fishing Shelter by Pexmor
This shelter by Pexmor is perfect for two people. It is an extremely durable shelter that comes with string fabric, which is waterproof and frost-resistant, making it ideal for very low temperatures. It can also withstand high wind speeds up to 25 mph.
The shelter comes with dual zippers, mesh pockets for storage, and traps in the heat, making it warm and cozy. It has enough space for two people to sit comfortably. The product comes with an efficient carrying option with a lightweight design.
Product Specs
- 15 pounds
- 300 Denier Oxford fabric
- 58″ x 58″ and 65″
- 4 windows
- Accommodates 2- 3
Why We Recommend This Product
The ice fishing shelter has space for two people. It is small and compact, lightweight, and easy to transport. The setup of the shelter barely takes two minutes and is reasonably priced for its durability. The shelter comes with ventilation holes and detachable windows.
Pros
- 300 Denier fabric which is waterproof and resistant to frost
- Can be set up within two minutes alone
- Is easy to transport and portable, fitting into a duffel bag
- Fiberglass solid poles and comes equipped with anchors
- Warranty of 12 months
- Removable windows and ventilation holes
- Solid poles with all-metal hubs
- Withstands high winds of up to 25 mph
Cons
- Not very high, maybe uncomfortable for tall people
- May not comfortably accommodate two people
Tip: Extremely durable and can withstand high wind conditions while trapping heat inside.
Info alert: This ice fishing shelter is the perfect shelter for amateurs and pros.
#6. 300 Denier Ice Fishing Shelter by Thunderbay
This Thunderbay ice fishing tent is a great option for large groups. It is designed for six people. It is durable and well-insulated, trapping heat inside and keeping out the winds with an extra-long and wide skirting. The shelter is easy to transport and has 6 PVC windows, which keep the wind and light out, suitable for spearing and sight fishing.
This insulated shelter is well suited to high wind conditions and traps heat effectively inside for warmth, and the shelter has sixty grams of insulation to ensure this. The shelter has two exits and is well-spaced out. The reinforced tie-downs and the 12 extra-strong ice anchors ensure that are secure and durable in high winds conditions.
Product Specs
- 62 pounds
- 300 denier fabric with 60-gram insulation
- Elbow room of 160” x 90”
- Hub to hub size of 138” x 70” x 78”
- folded dimension is 52″x11.4″x11.4″
- 2 air vents
- 2 zippered doors
- 12 extra strong anchors and reinforced tie-downs
- Accommodates 6
Why We Recommend This Product
This extra-large Thunderbay shelter is great for large groups of ice fishers, offering ample light and ventilation with air vents and PVC windows. It is a sturdy shelter that can easily withstand high winds and also keep winds out, thanks to the wide skirting. With a heater inside, there is enough insulation for warmth and comfort.
Pros
- 300 Denier fabric
- Is easy to transport and portable
- Easy hassle-free setup
- 6 Figrostabile PVC windows
- 2 zippered doors
- Fiberglass solid poles and comes equipped with anchors
- Extra-wide skirting to keep the wind out
- Adequate ventilation with 2 ventilation holes
- Withstands high winds
- Extremely dark interior, perfect for spearfishing
Cons
- The strap for the carrying bag is too short for comfort
- Cannot be used in the rain
- Requires assistance for set up on windy days, as it can act like a parachute catching the wind
Tip: An extra-large shelter and can withstand high winds once set up, with adequate ventilation.
Info alert: The ice fishing shelter is a good investment, as it is durable, lightweight and easy to setup.
#7. Waterproof Portable Pop-Up Ice Fishing Shelter by Outsunny
This waterproof ice fishing shelter comfortably accommodates 2 to 4 people. It is extremely well insulated and can withstand very low temperatures with ease. The adjustable windows provide easy access to adjust the brightness inside; the fiberglass poles are durable and made to withstand repeated use, with optimal protection from the wind and the cold.
The shelter is easy to set up and dismantle and takes a few minutes barely. It has a reinforced bottom, making it a great choice for comfort. Compared to many similar shelters, this one is reasonably priced for amateurs; the large space ensures that there is ample space to fish comfortably.
Product Specs
- 5 pounds
- 300 denier waterproof and frost resistant fabric
- 7″ x 70.9″ x 70.9″
- Folded dimension is 51.2″ x 5.9″ x 5.9″
- Fiberglass poles and die-cast hubs
- 4 ground stakes and pull ropes
- Accommodates 2-4 people
Why We Recommend This Product
This Outsunny waterproof shelter is perfect for harsh winds and is durable and sturdy, with fiberglass poles and die-cast hubs. It is resistant to frost and waterproof, making it an ideal choice for comfort during ice fishing trips.
Pros
- 300 Denier fabric
- Easy to transport and portable
- Hassle-free setup and dismantling
- Hook and fasteners adjustable windows
- 2 zippered doors on opposite sides
- Fiberglass solid poles with anchors
Cons
- Zippers are not heavy-duty and break easily
- Door access is not the best and is a weak point
- Fiberglass may break
- Windows have to be accessed from the outside
Tip: Frost-resistant and waterproof shelter that is lightweight and easy to set up and dismantle.
Info alert: The waterproof ice shelter is the perfect choice for ice fishing, thanks to its reinforced bottom.
#8. Portable Ice Fishing Shelter by Nordic Legend
The Portable Ice Fishing Shelter by Nordic Legend is a great product for the price. It is sturdy and has reliable fiberglass poles. The shelter is made of 300 Denier polyester fabric and is without insulation, making it perfect for low wind conditions.
The shelter comes with a unique diamond-shaped door that has been designed and built for easy access. It is very large and spacious enough to accommodate up to 9 people comfortably. The shelter has been outfitted with ample mesh storage for personal effects and equipment and has enough reinforcement to ensure a safe time in moderate wind conditions
Product Specs
- 9 pounds
- 300 Denier polyester
- In-skirt grommets and reinforced corners
- 90″ x 90″x 78″
- Elbow room 99″ x 99″
- Fishing area 55.5 square feet
- 11 mm solid fiberglass poles and die-cast hubs
- 8 sturdy ice anchors and reinforced tie-downs
- Accommodates 4-9 people
Why We Recommend This Product
This shelter makes it to the best ice fishing shelters and tents as it is a great option for large groups; it can easily accommodate up to 9 people. The polyester material is deceptively sturdy and can withstand moderate winds. It has a large base, providing a lot of space for fishing. The shelter is easy to carry and lightweight with a quality finish.
Pros
- 300 Denier polyester fabric
- Portable and easy to transport
- Easy hassle-free setup and dismantling
- Two diamond-shaped doors with webbing give easy access
- Mesh storage compartments
- Extra equipment comes with 4-piece fishing rod pockets, collapsible carry bag and mesh storage pockets on the roof.
Cons
- Made from polyester and is not very effective at keeping high winds
- It is sturdy, but the polyester starts to fade after a few uses.
Tip: Double diamond-shaped doors on opposite sides for easy and safe access, without tripping.
Info alert: The inside part of the windows has a plastic flap that is attached with Velcro and hence, completely removable.
#9. Pop-up Ice Fishing Shelter for Two by Tangkula
The Pop-up Ice Fishing Shelter for Two by Tangkula is sturdy and reliable and can easily withstand high winds. The shelter is made from the superior 300 Denier fabric that effectively keeps out the winds and the cold. Although it is not insulated, it is good to keep the cold out and trapping the heat.
The shelter’s color is black, enabling it to trap heat adequately. It is not essential to carry around cumbersome heaters, as they are not needed. For the price of the shelter, it is a great purchase for first-timers who wish to test the water, literally.
Product Specs
- 22 pounds
- Sturdy and durable 300 Denier Oxford fabric
- In-skirt grommets and reinforced corners
- 58” x 58” x 66”
- D 9.5 glass rods
- 4 stakes
- Accommodates 2-3
Why We Recommend This Product
It is an extremely durable electric fishing reel and can take the rigors of intense fishing conditions like you would experience in deep-sea or saltwater.
The shelter has all the essential features, besides being waterproof and frost resistant. It performs well in high wind conditions and has ample space for two people. It offers an easy setup and dismantling option and comes within a bag, which makes it portable and lightweight to carry.
h-performance fishing reel and has the power to back it up. The ball bearings are from stainless steel, making them durable and long-lasting.
Pros
- 300 Denier Oxford fabric
- Portable and easy to transport shelter
- Easy hassle-free setup and dismantling
- 4 detachable window covers for light and brightness
- Withstand strong winds
Cons
- Glass rods prone to breaking after a few times.
- Can see signs of wear and tear after the third or the fourth use.
- Not user-friendly for setup and ideally requires two people for the operation
- Sports a small door and not suited for large-built people
- The material is taut and hard to zip
- Not waterproof
Tip: Waterproof shelter at a great price, providing space for 2 people with their gear.
Info alert: Use the black color of the shelter to your advantage as it traps ambient heat and keeps you warm and snug.
#10. Portable Ice Fishing Tent by Elkton
The tent is durable and warm. It comes with ample insulation (3 layers of quilted PVC, nylon, and tarpaulin) and tarpaulin, ensuring the heat is trapped inside. It is large and spacious and quite easy to set up within minutes.
The shelter has sufficient ventilation with 6 vents and 6 windows to allow light in. The windows come with detachable window flaps for easy removal when required. The shelter functions well in moderate wind conditions, although not waterproof.
Product Specs
- 57 pounds
- 3 layers of quilted PVC, Nylon, and Tarpaulin
- In-skirt grommets and reinforced corners
- 5” x 68.5” x 81”
- 6 windows with removable covers
- 6 vents in the roof for ventilation
- Accommodates 8 people
Why We Recommend This Product
The ice fishing shelter is great for moderate weather conditions. It can easily fit up to 8 people and offers hassle-free set and dismantling options. It has multiple storage pockets to store all gear and belongings safely. The Elkton shelters are durable and cost-effective for infrequent use
Pros
- Well insulated and waterproof with 3 layers of quilted PVC, Nylon, and Tarpaulin
- Portable and easy to transport shelter
- Extremely spacious
- 6 detachable window covers for light and brightness
- 6 air vents for ample ventilation
- Easy hassle-free setup and dismantling
- The high ceiling makes it suitable for tall people
Cons
- Difficult to set up alone
- The straps for carrying the shelter in the bag are lightweight and tear easily
- Setup is not user-friendly
- Not waterproof
- Poor grommets
Tip: The ice fishing shelter is very warm and effectively retains heat with a heater.
Info alert: The shelter does not have a bottom and the tent needs to be tied down to ensure it does not fly away.
Looking to catch more Perch when ice fishing? See our best tips for ice fishing for perch!
Buying Guide for Ice Fishing Shelters and Tents
This comprehensive list enables you to choose the best-suited product for your requirements. There are a few aspects to keep in mind when choosing the best one for your use, and they are as follows:
Insulation and material
Depending on the location of the activity, it is crucial to choose one with proper insulation to keep you warm and safe from the freezing temperatures. The materials of the shelter will also make a difference, as frost-resistant and waterproof products are highly desirable.
Storage
Ice fishing comes with a few equipment components, so it is imperative to choose one with good storage options that can be accessed easily without hassle.
Space
In case you regularly go ice fishing by yourself, then it is not crucial to buy the largest space possible. However, if this activity is common amongst family and friends, choose a spacious ice fishing tent that can accommodate all group members.
Easy transportation and setup
The shelter should be easy and comfortable to carry with even distribution of weight. Setup and dismantling of the shelter should be hassle-free and fast.
Durability in high wind conditions
Finding a shelter that can withstand high winds up to 25 mph is crucial. Ideally, the shelter should be lightweight with ample reinforcements to make it a sturdy option.
Final Verdict
It is not difficult to choose the best-suited products from the multitude of products available in the market. These are the 10 best ice fishing shelters and tents available in terms of pricing, durability, portability, and ease of transportation.
We feel that the Thermal Ice Fishing Shelter by Trophy Strike is the best choice for novice and experienced ice fishermen. It is easy to transport and is highly reliable and effective. It has superior insulation and can trap heater or ambient heat to keep the tent warm.
See more of our ice fishing articles here:
- Generator for ice fishing
- Float suit for ice fishing
- Best chair for ice fishing
- Best ice fishing camera
Updated: October 28, 2022
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