Shack Tips & Tricks

Ice anglers are famous for finding and developing the latest designs of instant set, ultra-portable shelters. Right out of the box, the famous flip-top Fish Trap and all the models patterned after it are so packed with hardcore fishing features that you don’t have to do much to be mobile and effective on the ice.

But, as tinkering is in the blood of most ice fanatics, and given that a creative addition here and there can make a great portable even better, here are a few of the latest modifications to consider. The goal is to add function while keeping total weight to a minimum.

Rain Gutter Storage—A molded plastic tub is the base for modern flip-up shelters. To create dry storage for smaller items, fasten it to the plastic rain gutter that spans the back of the sled.

“Some rain gutter is higher on one side than the other,” says Dave Genz, inventor of the Fish Trap. “Buy the stuff that’s the same height on both sides.” Genz does not use end caps, preferring to use a grinder to custom mold the shape of each end to contours of the sled. He pop-rivets the gutter in place (or uses bolts & washers), securing the ends with 1-inch L brackets for added rigidity against downward pressure.

Even when you move from spot to spot and the shelter is collapsed, the wall fabric covers gear in the gutter, protecting it from the elements. “It’s a slick add-on. In it, I keep my camera, extra gloves and hat, a face mask, more line, snacks, a flashlight, small tackle boxes, and even propane bottles.”

Floor Covering—Rick Wood, a member of the Ice Team Power Stickers and an expert in the flooring industry, found the ideal liner for plastic sleds in flip-style shelters. Carpet keeps your gear from sliding around once the sled has a bit of snow in it. The material is commonly called “walk-off,” a commercial-grade runner material sold by building centers and hardware stores. The lining is rubber and the top material synthetic. Easily cuts to size with a utility knife. No need to fasten it permanently. Take it out, shake it out, and put it back in.

Rod Holders—Today’s high-quality graphite ice rods merit protection. Several good bags and other tube-style rod holders are available, or you can make your own using plastic tubes sold for use in golf bags.

Start by cutting each plastic tube to match the length of your rods. Position the tubes so your rod butts and reels will angle upward and not fall out, sticking out like a pistol ready to draw from a holster. Fasten them to the plastic sled by drilling two holes where the front of the tube will be, two at the back, and then zip-tie them to the inside of the sled. A short, lightweight bungee cord can secure rods for travel between fishing spots.

Broom clips, the kind that hold brooms to walls, can be bolted or riveted to the plastic sled to hold rods while you fish. They also work great for securing a deadsticking rod. Fasten them to the broad “lip” portion of the plastic sled that’s parallel to the ground, so you can easily reach down from your seat and grab the rod.