Choosing the Right Size for Your Ice Fishing Flip Shelter in 2023

Ice fishing enthusiasts, gear up for the 2023 season! As you prepare to invest in a new flip shelter, one of the most critical factors to consider is the size. Selecting the right size shelter can greatly impact your comfort, convenience, and overall ice fishing experience. In this blog post, we'll explore why size matters and provide you with essential questions to ask yourself when choosing the perfect sled-style flip shelter for your needs.

Fit for Your Vehicle and Storage:

The first thing to consider is practicality. Your flip shelter needs to fit in your truck or trailer, and you'll be storing it somewhere in your garage during the off-season. Many shelters on the market won't fit in a short box with the tailgate shut or are too tall to fit under a tonneau cover.

Measure Your Ride: Start by measuring your vehicle's cargo space and available storage space in your garage. This step is crucial in narrowing down the size that's right for you.

Weight Considerations:

Weight is another important factor, especially if you're loading and unloading your shelter frequently. While you might initially think that bigger is better, you'll quickly realize the importance of weight when it comes to maneuverability.

Fishing Companions: If you usually fish alone, a true one-man shelter might be the perfect choice. However, if you frequently fish with a partner, you can consider larger options with slightly more weight.

Square Footage and Comfort:

Square footage varies widely across different brands and models of flip shelters. The size you choose will play a crucial role in your comfort during those long hours on the ice. Larger shelters require larger heaters and consume more propane to maintain a comfortable temperature.

Propane Consumption: Keep in mind that the size of your shelter will influence how much propane you might require. Larger shacks typically require a 20lb propane tank-style heaters, while mid to small-sized shacks use 1lb propane tanks in smaller heaters.

Consider Your Transportation Method:

Think about what you'll be using to transport your shelter. Larger, battleship-style flip shelters are fantastic for big waters where you might be traveling long distances behind a snowmobile regularly. However, they come with heavier tubs and require more propane, which adds to the overall weight.

Hand Pulling vs. Snowmobile Towing: If you plan to hand-pull your shelter, consider a manageable weight. The larger the shelter, the more of a lumberjack you'll need to be to move it around comfortably.

Conclusion:

Selecting the right size for your sled-style flip shelter is crucial for a successful ice fishing season. It affects everything from transportation and storage to comfort and propane consumption. By considering your vehicle, storage space, fishing companions, and transportation method, you can make an informed decision that aligns perfectly with your unique ice fishing style. Remember, when it comes to flip shelters, size truly matters, and choosing wisely will ensure a season of warmth, comfort, and successful catches on the ice.