Overview of Ice Fishing House Plans
Ice fishing house plans are a set of plans that can aid you in building your very own ice fishing shelter. They can be as simple or as complex as you want them to be.
These plans refer to detailed designs and blueprints for constructing a house on a frozen body of water, which is commonly used by ice anglers to stay warm and comfortable while fishing in extreme weather conditions. These plans may include information on the materials required, such as wood, metal, or plastic, as well as the necessary tools and equipment to complete the project. The plans can be used by DIY enthusiasts to build their own ice fishing houses, or by professional builders who specialize in constructing these structures for customers. Ice fishing house plans are essential for ensuring the safety and comfort of those who use these shelters, as they provide a guide for constructing a sturdy and well-insulated structure that can withstand harsh winter conditions.
The simplest of shelters is just a square box with holes in the floor to fish through. For this you are going to need just nails, a hammer, two by fours, and some plywood. We also recommend some kind of insulation, such as two inch thick hard foam; Home Depot should have this.
This guide will help you build an ice fishing house from scratch, including information on tools and materials needed, basic design considerations, and step-by-step assembly instructions. We’ll also provide some tips for those who want to take their ice fishing house to the next level with added features.
Keep in mind that before attempting to build an ice fishing house, you should obtain an official set of blueprints; this step-by-step guide is intended as a rough outline for a DIY ice fishing house. Make sure that wherever you move your shelter to has ice that is thick enough to support it. Your frozen lake’s park ranger should have this information.
Steps for Building an Ice Fishing House

Choosing the Right Materials
The first step in building your ice fishing house is choosing the right materials. You’ll need sturdy, weather-resistant materials that can withstand the harsh winter conditions. Some good options include:
- PVC pipes
- Plywood
- Canvas or heavy-duty tarp
- Insulation materials
- Screws and other hardware
Building the Frame
Next, you’ll need to build the frame of your ice fishing shelter. This will provide the support and structure for the rest of the house. Here’s how to do it:
- Cut your PVC pipes to the desired length and attach them together using fittings and connectors.
- Create a square or rectangular frame that’s the appropriate size for your needs.
- Use screws to secure the frame to the ice.
Adding Insulation and Covering
Once you have the frame in place, you’ll need to add insulation to help keep the heat inside. Here’s how:
- Cut the insulation to fit the inside of the frame.
- Attach the insulation using adhesive or other fasteners.
- Cover the insulation with canvas or heavy-duty tarp, securing it with clips or other hardware.
Installing Windows and a Door
No ice fishing shelter would be complete without windows and a door. Here’s how to install them:
- Cut openings in the canvas or tarp where you want your windows and door to be.
- Attach clear plastic sheeting to the inside of the openings to create windows.
- Create a door using plywood or another sturdy material, and attach it to the frame using hinges.
Adding the Finishing Touches
Finally, add any finishing touches you want to your ice fishing shelter. This might include:
- Adding a heater or other heat source
- Installing shelves or storage compartments
- Decorating the interior with fishing gear or other items
By taking note of these steps and using official ice fishing house plans, you can build a sturdy and warm ice fishing house that will help you avoid catching a cold while catching some fish. Or, if you prefer a less labor-intensive method of staying warm on the ice, then consider investing in a portable ice fishing tent.