Ambush FAQs
Q: How do I transport a skid house to the lake?
A: We have put together a full guide on transporting skid houses. Read it here. Also, watch our video showing how easy it is to transport your skid house with an Ambush trailer.
Q: What’s better? A skid house or a wheel house?
A: There are pros to each type of ice fishing house:
Skid houses are more rugged, simple, and do not required plowed roads.
Wheel houses offer mobility (they look like campers) and can be used for camping in the summer.
Check out our podcast episode on this topic. Or, read more here.
Q: What is special about the construction of Ambush’s skid houses?
A: Ambush skid houses use all composite and aluminum in construction, which makes them light weight. There is no-wood or steel, which means there is nothing to rot or rust.
Q: How do I maintain an Ambush skid house?
A: Maintaining your skid house is important so you can use it for years to come. Read our guide here.
Q: What are the ice-thickness safety guidelines?
A: Based on Minnesota DNR guidelines:
- Under 4″: Stay off
- 4″: Ice fishing or other activities on foot
- 5″ – 7’: Snowmobile or small ATV
- 7” – 8”: Side-by-side ATV
- 9” – 10”: Small car or SUV
- 11” -12”: Medium SUV or small truck
- 13”: Medium truck
- 16” -17”: Heavy-duty truck
- 20”+: Heavy-duty truck with wheelhouse shelter
Q: What safety gear should I have for ice fishing?
A: We suggest:
- A personal flotation device (PFD) or flotation suit.
- Ice picks (wear them around your neck) to help pull yourself out if you break through.
- A throw rope (for rescue or anchoring while testing ice).
- A waterproof container for emergency gear (blanket, phone, hand warmers, etc.).
- Cleats or crampons for boots to prevent slipping.
Q: How do I find a local dealer to purchase an Ambush product?
A: Visit our Dealer Locator to start your purchase.
Q: How much does a skid house cost?
A: Ambush skid houses range from $8,000 to $20,000 depending on size, number of fishing holes, options and additional accessories. Purchasing an Ambush skid house is an investment, and it ensures that you will be able to have the best ice fishing experience possible for many years.
Q: How much does a wheel house cost?
A: Ambush wheel houses range from $24,00 to $100,000 depending on size, number of fishing holes, options and additional accessories.
Q: How much does a skid house weigh?
A: Ambush skid houses weigh between 620lbs and 2040lbs depending on the unit. All Ambush skid houses are built with an all aluminum frame, meaning the are lighter, which means you can get out on the ice sooner and stay out longer.
Q: How do you heat your ice fishing house?
A: There are multiple different ways to heat your ice house. We offer direct vent heaters and Truma forced air heaters or you can provide your own heat source.
Q: Is a skid house easy to pull?
A: Ambush skid houses are very easy to tow. Due to their lightweight nature, and the Ambush Mini Tow Shackle and winch combo, hauling your skid house wherever you want to go is a breeze.
Q: Why is “no wood” a good thing?
A: Ice fishing is a wet business. Having an ice fishing house that is built with no wood means that there is nothing to rot, get soggy, or mold.

