A Guide to Ice Houses

Believe it or not, fishing is not just a summer activity. For many people, this hobby continues year-round and even finds a home out on the ice.

The best tool to make that experience enjoyable is an ice house. If you do not know what an ice house is, keep reading, because we are giving you a comprehensive guide to ice houses! After reading, you will understand what they are, how Ambush is changing the ice fishing game, and a few other points about ice houses. So, let’s dive in.

What are ice houses?

At its core level, ice houses are quite literally mini houses on the ice. Now, they are not quite houses that normal people live in on land, but the idea is quite similar. These are temporary sheds, or houses, that sit out on the ice until it’s time to pull them off for the season.

During the ice fishing season, these houses are used for shelter and a haven for fishing opportunities. If we had to compare them to something on land, they are closer to a shed as the size cannot be large and safe at the same time.

What are Ambush ice houses like?

Ambush is a great brand that really takes the traditional ice house to an entirely new level. Ambush makes two versions of an ice house and they have a few super unique features that are not found in any competitor’s lineup.

The two series are the Slayer and Stryker. These are great ice houses, and the big difference between the two is the size. The Slayer is made to fit 3-5 people and the Stryker is for 1-3 people. So, there are options for any group size. The capacity also determines how many fishing holes are on the rig, so keep that in mind.

Picking the right ice house size for you is quite important. Obviously, the bigger and better the ice house, the more expensive it is. So, if you never fish with more than two other people, having a five-person ice house may not be right for you.

Why Ambush?

Ambush is not just some basic ice house company. Several features are not found on any other option, which puts it at the top of the list in terms of value in the industry.

First and foremost, Ambush is known as the original woodless skid house. This, quite simply, means that there is no wood anywhere in the design. Wood is extremely common in many other options, so having one without wood is a big deal – no wood rot! The lack of wood keeps the build light and strong. Because these are such a large investment, having one that can last a long time is a big perk.

Another great feature of Ambush specifically is the gel coating that provides strength and waterproofing to the shell. Without that gel coating over the aluminum and fiberglass shell, the longevity of the ice house will be greatly affected.

Not only does Ambush make some of the best ice houses on the market, they also provide a full line of optional accessories to make your skid house your own. Accessories; such as rod racks, Rattlesnake reels, cup holders, sonar shelves, solar kits, and heater options; allow you to add functionality and personalize your ice house.

Overall, you know you are going to get a quality piece of equipment with Ambush. Although there are tons of other options, keep this one in mind.

Features of ice houses

There are a few specific features that make ice houses special and worthwhile. Whether it be Ambush or anything else, there are a few aspects that must be included for a good ice house.

First and foremost, you need a good, covered space. No ice house is complete without a quality roof and enclosed space to keep you away from the elements. If the ice house is inefficient in separating you from the elements, there probably is no point in having one anyway.

Another important feature is the fishing holes. Every good ice house has holes built into the design that can be lined up with holes in the ice. This allows for maximized fishing without having to leave the house. Ambush skid fish houses even come in a variety of color choices!

Overall, you should pick an ice house that best fits your needs. If you have a higher budget and will be doing a ton of ice fishing in any given season, you can splurge on a more built-up and solid ice house. If you’re only going out a few times a season and do not want to break the bank, there are options for that as well.

Why are ice houses used for ice fishing?

Ice houses are definitely not required for ice fishing, but they can elevate your experience to an entirely new level. This is because it provides some excellent protection and opportunities when the conditions are not quite great.

When in an ice house, you are completely protected from any conditions that are outside. You will be covered when the temperatures are dangerously low or the snow is coming down hard. This also gives you the ability to run a space heater. The days of roughing out on the ice are over!

Closing thoughts

At the end of the day, ice houses are there to improve the ice fishing experience to fit everyone. Not everyone wants to rough it out in the cold and brave the conditions. So, this is the perfect way to still partake in the fun while staying warm and safe.

If you can afford it, absolutely look into buying or renting an ice house. This will truly take your fishing experience to a level that you have never experienced before! Interested in an Ambush Ice House? Check out our Dealer Locator to find an Ice House near you!