How to Heat an Ice Shanty

In the northern states and Alaska, people who fish in the winter often have an ice shanty. While the basic dwelling protects you from the elements, additional heat makes your time on the ice much more pleasant and you will be able to stay out longer and -- hopefully -- catch more fish.

Instructions

    • 1

      Insulate the roof of the ice shanty with blanket batts of fiberglass, foam beads or rigid foam board. This will stop the heat from escaping faster than it can be produced.

    • 2

      Ventilate the icy shanty, particularly if you are going to be using propane because carbon monoxide can be dangerous. For a wood stove, put a pipe through the roof to allow the smoke to escape.

    • 3

      Investigate heat sources. Traditionalists will want a tin wood-burning stove. The benefit of this selection is that it is light enough to empty and put in the back of the truck when you are done fishing for the day. Propane is another option. Solar power is free and having a south side exposure in an ice shanty sitting on the edge of a lake isn't a problem. If your shanty is close to your cabin, run an extension cord and use an electric heater.

    • 4

      Put the wood-burning stove or propane heater in the middle of the shanty. Like a campfire, it keeps your back warm and is also good to stand over to rub your hands when they are cold.

    • 5

      Install and activate the heat source to warm up the shanty.