A Portable Pop-Up Ice-Fishing Shack

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At this point, the structural portion of the shelter is complete. To finish the project, you'll need to install the three layers of plastic sheeting as follows: First, drape the clear poly inner liner over the erected structure so the material is slightly loose and all the wall edges are covered. Staple the plastic at appropriate locations to hold it in place, then trim it if necessary, leaving a bit of border for fold-over. Next, cut your roll of reflective film into three 30" X 208" sections, and lay them over the poly so they overlap at the inside edges and meet the walls. Finally, place the outer layer of reinforced tarpaulin over the film, and fold over the edges and bottom to create a hem. Again, use some staples to hold it temporarily in place.

The last step is to secure the layers of plastic to the edges of the walls with carefully trimmed counter edging held in place with 3/4" ovalhead screws. These molding strips should be fastened at the top and sides, terminating about 3" from the lower ends of the walls. When this is done, the two sideboards can be installed . .. and your shelter is complete.

FLAGSHIP OF THE FROZEN FLEET

Without a doubt, you'll be the envy of the lake the minute you unfold your shelter and start your heater cooking. Though we didn't have the opportunity to test the but in subzero weather, we feel confident that it's capable of maintaining at least a subsistence—level interior temperature in even severe cold, and will probably be more than adequate under more moderate conditions.

Finally, one word of caution: Before you set up your shelter on the ice, make absolutely certain that the frozen surface is thick and solid enough to support the 245-pound shed-plus you and a friend. And be sure to check your state's licensing requirements before boring your hole. That could save you from a fine . . . and from a very bad day. Happy angling!

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