Cheap But Good

[Jordpederson]

I am looking for a cheap but durable and quality portable sled style fish house for two people. What are some suggestions.

[Jim Almquist]

I would keep watching the HSO classifieds and look for a used Otter Cabin or a Lodge. The tub is almost indestructible and you will find them to be very durable as well as functional.

[McGurk]

I almost bought a Clam Nanook last spring on clearance; I really like the smaller size and lightweight design for a 2 person. It was a nice setup for no more than 2 people and light gear, and includes 2 seats. Plus, it only weighed 80 lbs. I fish out of an Otter Cabin, and appreciate the extra room until it comes time to pull it!

[Rippinlip]

Look at the Eskimo 2 man, you normally can pick up the package for around 250-300 bucks. Sled/Shelter/cover.

[Koepper08]

+1 on the Eskimo. I still have one from 6 or 7 years ago. I burned a hole in it two years ago but other than that it was in great shape. Only a little wear on the front of the tub but a little hyfax would've fixed that it no time.

[Jordpederson]

Is there plenty of room in the Eskimo for extra gear.

[Rippinlip]

How much gear are you talking about? I do like the Bench seat too, that is what mine has. Also I am talking the Quick Flip, not the tent style.

Here is what I have when I am fishing alone in the house.

Floor(ice) of the house:

Heater, either small buddy or sunflower, depending on temp.

Minnow pail, 5 gallon bucket for fish, Vexilar and Camera.

In the tub:

Rod bag, tackle box/bag, chipper, spare 1 gallon tanks for buddy, beverage of choice for the day.

If more than me, I have fished 3 in this house, little cozy, but it was my wife and daughter.

Only thing I change is minnow bucket and fish bucket go in the tub then.

Mark

[Esox_Magnum]

I run an Eskimo 3 man and been a great shack, I got a steal on it used 2 times for $225 and it's served me well for 4 seasons now and more to come....

[CJH]

I almost bought a Clam Nanook last spring on clearance; I really like the smaller size and lightweight design for a 2 person. It was a nice setup for no more than 2 people and light gear, and includes 2 seats. Plus, it only weighed 80 lbs. I fish out of an Otter Cabin, and appreciate the extra room until it comes time to pull it!

That's what I would get. I have the "Guide" which was the predecessor and it has been great!!!

[deadeye]

Whatever you get put hyfax on it and you wont have to worry about the sled. I have owned all the major brands and the sled is what I always have wear out first. Hyfax eliminates that weak link.

The team wild series from otter has been a really good performer for the price. I have the older version of it and I have been very happy with it. The sled is super tough and with hyfax I haven't seen any wear. It has been the only shelter I have had that the sled is staying tough.

The Eskimos are nice but have a "light duty" sled IMO, with hyfax it shouldn't be a issue though. The lighter weight would be nice for dragging out by hand....

I would keep your eyes open on all the sporting goods sites. Marine general, cabelas, GM, fleet farm, red rock store, hso classifieds, ect. I have always gotten my shelters on a pre season deal. It seems like sometimes the preseason stuff is cheaper than the end of season deals. I got my team wild 2 for 230$ on a preseason deal and my Eskimo quickfish on a similar deal.