Ice Fishing Sleds

Here are some things to consider when looking at ice fishing sleds... or you may have a similar story...

A while back, I had finally allowed myself to 'buck up' for a good Thermos. Packed it in my sled, the very next morning and enjoyed hot coffee all day on the ice.

I got home without it. I figure it slid out the back of my sled as I climbed up the fairly steep slope out of the lake I had fished that day.

I'd wanted one of those darned thermos' for years, and had it for a grand total of 1 day! Someone got themselves a brand new thermos, and it probably still had a bit of hot coffee inside.

As for me? Well I learned that skimping on my sled, and not having a cover for it is not very bright. It could have been my Vexilar, ugh!

Size: Ice fishing sleds have gotta be big enough for all your gear, but small enough to fit in your vehicle. Your auger, skimmers, flasher(s), ice rods and rod holders, jigs, spoons and bait, snow shovel, ice fishing heater and propane cylinders, chairs or buckets to sit on, rescue rope, lunch (& thermos), extra stuff (my wife comes prepared, lol)...





Depth: This is often over-looked. The depth (side height)is very important, especially if towing for significant treks? Do you foresee yourself going up and down relatively steep slopes? How about over rough or uneven terrain? Through deep snow?

Durability: Tough, Tough, Tough! Buy the most durable sled you can afford. Your ice fishing sled must resist cracking in extreme cold temperatures. Of course there are other reasons. How often do you ice fish? Just how remote is that favorite ice fishing spot? Do you plan on using it for additional activities, like big game hunting, or hauling cargo on snowmobiling expeditions? Bringing in firewood?





Accessories: Will you need to accessorize it? Are the following accessories available for this model? Tow hitch? Sled Travel Cover? Wear Bar or Runner Kit?

Features: Consider things like the an oversized front scoop to ride up and over deep snow. See the Clam Series, or cargo holders, like molded in 5 gal bucket retainers to keep your gear from shifting around while being towed. This is a relatevely new feature, available in the Cabela's sled (above).


Warranty: Compare the manufacturers warranties, as this sled will be with you for many years of fun.

Go from Ice Fishing Sleds to Ice Fishing Equipment