flip over portables............

[fish_82]

right now i have a clam 1060 portable, but i would like to start bringing my 2 year old son with me and would like something that is faster to set up. i have been looking at the clam x2 but would like some in put on any of the others. any info will help.

thanks fish_82

[bloc004]

I love my x2, you will not be disapointed with that!!!!

[leech~~]

fish_82, good time of year to upgrade as everything is one sale. I got a Eskimo qwick flip II and it's pretty nice. They are on sale at F/Farm right now.

[Neiko]

I love my X2 also. Really comfortable seats especially if you are going to be out there for awhile. The poles are material are really heavy duty and should last a long time.

[Dave]

If your goal is to keep your son (and you) more comfortable while on the ice, I'll encourage you to check out Canvas Craft's Norpac shelters. Standard canvas shelters are available, too, but, if you really think about it, no moisture buildup inside and smaller heater needed equals more warmth and room for you and the little guy. You can use the link below to check em out.

Canvas Craft Shelters

[Quetico]

My buddy's got an X2 and I've got a Yukon. Both are great. The main reason I went with the Yukon vs X2 is the weight difference. I regularly fish alone on hike-in only lakes. I don't want the extra weight when loading it into the truck solo. Also the X2 is a heavy sled to drag anywhere. I've dragged my Yukon with gear for the afternoon/evening 1/2 mile. I would never do that with a X2.

Keys to think about:

1. Are you going solo? If so go with a lighter house?

2. Are you always going to be towing with a sled or ATV? If yes go with an X2 or heavier sled.

3. The Canvas craft covers are great but higher cost. Are you using them enough to justify the cost?

[Dave]

3. The Canvas craft covers are great but higher cost. Are you using them enough to justify the cost?

If I'm not mistaken, retail online price checking of a Fish Trap X2 and Canvas Craft Magnum large with Norpac shelter is about a $20 difference. Not much for the obvious benefit. That's why I encourage buyers to give Canvas Craft a call, discuss what your needs are, even compare the size and benefits and ask about any specials CC might have.

[hawkeye43]

Last night was the first night I used a canves craft house on a med. otter. I didn't have a heater along as I wanted to keep moving and move fast. I did settle in after about an hour and thought I would stay until I got cold, well it never happen. I keep thinking my fingers would get colder soon, well at 1 o'clock I came home. I was surprized as I was packing up that it was as cool it was. I glad I made the switch to Norpac as I have had 5 otters over the years and never liked the dripping. I still have an otter den for early and late ice which is usually warmer.

[Sandmannd]

Flip overs are good for fast steup. Any of the mentioned ones will work. You can also check out the quick flips or Clam's version of them. Those are fast to setup and very light to carry around.

[Northlander]

I have been running Otters for the last 14 years and have had very good performance out of them. Best tubs and the new canvas is awesome. If you will ever tow with a wheeler or sled I recomend getting hyfax.

Check around and see what fits your needs best.

[leech~~]

I second the hyfax if you tow with a sled! I got a really heavy type of plastic sheet from work that doesn't crack in the cold. Used a heater and formed it right to the bottom and pop rivited on the ends. Works great!

[fish_82]

thanks for all the input so far, i appreciate it. has anyone had any troubles with the fabric ripping on their x2's? also is a frabill or otter that is comparable to the x2? thanks again.

fish_82

[bearslayer]

I have an X2 and am very happy. Only downfall as mentioned is they are a little heavy, especially when alone. I bought mine at end of last year at GM. Were on sale for $499, then another 10% off for opening a credit card there. Pretty good deal at around $450. I would bet they go on sale again this year.

[Neiko]

I was at GM last night and they had the X2 for $599 plus you get a $100 gift card. As for the material it is rugged. I had it frozen to the ice and had to pull on the canvas to get it free. No rips or frays at all.