It’s ice fishing season in the north country, and ice shelters are popping up all over the lakes. One of the best ways to stay warm and comfortable when fishing on the ice is to use a portable ice fishing shelter. Unless you’re one of the hardy types who moves from hole to hole with a bucket, an ice fishing shelter is the way to go. By keeping you out of the cold, it will keep you fishing longer.

There are two basic types of ice shelters: permanent and portable. The permanent kind usually require an ATV or truck to tow them out onto the ice. They can also get pretty expensive. A fully manufactured ice house—even a used one—can run well into the thousands. Building your own ice house is cheaper, but it takes time, labor, and know-how to do it right.

The easiest and most affordable option is a portable ice fishing shelter. You can find a quality ice shelter for well under $200. It’s light enough to carry onto the ice in a storage bag or on a sled (no towing needed).

It’s also the most convenient option because you can easily move the shelter from one spot to the next. An ice house, on the other hand, usually takes a lot more effort to move—that is, if it’s even possible.

Ice shelters are great for bringing along kids, family, and friends who may not enjoy sitting out on a bucket in the cold. The protection from the wind makes ice fishing enjoyable even in a stiff, cold wind. Even without a heat source, you’d be surprised how warm the tent alone can keep you.

Ice fishermen will also appreciate the blackout interior, which blocks the blinding glare of sun on ice and allows you to clearly see the fish swimming under the ice.

Portable ice tents come in all sizes, including single and double person tents, 4 person tents (one of the most popular sizes), and even up to 6 person tents. If you enjoy fishing with friends and family, you’ll want to get a large enough tent to fit everyone comfortably, along with all your ice fishing gear.