how to build a good shany

[Guest]

Could some of you guys give me some advice on shantys.Been wanting to build my own shanty for a couple of years now.Are there any size limits on the big pond for shantys?Are there any specks on that you have to go buy with the dnr. Is it recmmoned to have a metal or wood shany.Or is that a person perfreson.Any help would be really nice. So sorry about so many dum questions.P.S. what kind of heat sytem do u recoomened wood or gas.

[1tofish]

Ahhhh! The quest for the perfect fish house. Let me tell you right now it can't be reached. I know, I've tried for over 12 years. And no matter how many I build, the first time I sit down to fish in it I'll find something that could have been done differently.<BR> But to answer some of your questions... First you have to consider a few things. Are you going to be fishing by yourself or with a group of people? Will you want to be able to move around easily? Will you be spending the night on the ice? How often will you be using it (this question will also help determine how much you want to spend)? These, I feel, are some important questions you have to answer before you start building. <BR> As far as I know there are no size restrictions on LOW. But if your going to be fishing mostly by yourself, a small (4x8), wood house on skids will be all you will need. If there are several of you, you might start looking at a 8x12 or larger. I've never built one out of metal yet. I would have to think that it would cut the cost a bit. <BR> A few tips I can offer(I have learned from my mistakes). Don't put any holes right in the corner, the handles of the auger will hit the wall and you won't be able to drill a good hole. Make sure if you put windows in the they are low enough so when you are sitting you can see out of them. And if at all possible put the door on the side, and not on an end of the house. This will make it easier to get in and out of the house. <BR> Propane heat is the most conveinent source of heat. I would stay away from wood if at all possible. There are so many different types and sizes of propane heaters that no matter what size of house you should be able to find one that works the best. Just remember about venting in the house.<BR> I've rambled on long enough, hope this helps you out. <P><p>[This message has been edited by 1tofish (edited 12-04-2003).]

[Piker]

1. Keep the weight down, they get heavy fast. This goes for all sizes of houses.<P>2. If you have wheels try and make them the same, or close to that of the pickup. Crossing bridges over breakers can be a pain.<P>3. Really plan out your holes well. The auger thing is huge. I planned mine and still would change them.<P>4. Metal is usually lighter than wood and can be stronger. A good choice.<P>5. Wall-mount vent-free propane heaters and fishhouses are a great match in every way. Just put some wall vents in for fresh air. They should really call them exhaust-free, you still need a couple 2-3" vents or something.<P>6. Wire it for AC or DC lights, you'll be glad you did.