What are Fish House RVs used for?

Fish House RVs are recreational vehicles designed specifically for ice fishing. They allow anglers to comfortably stay in warm accommodations while still having access to the ice for fishing purposes. These unique RVs typically come equipped with amenities like heat, cooking facilities, and sleeping areas, making it possible for ice fishermen to enjoy extended stays on the ice.

What are some advantages of using a Fish House RV for ice fishing?

Using a Fish House RV for ice fishing provides several advantages, including a comfortable and warm place to stay, protection from harsh weather conditions, and access to amenities like cooking facilities and sleeping areas. This allows ice fishermen to stay on the ice for extended periods, increasing their chances of catching more fish. Additionally, Fish House RVs often have features like built-in fishing holes, making it easier to fish without having to leave the RV.

What are some common amenities found in a Fish House RV?

Fish House RVs typically come equipped with a variety of amenities to make ice fishing more enjoyable and comfortable. These amenities can include heating systems, cooking facilities, sleeping areas, bathrooms, and sometimes even entertainment systems like televisions and audio systems. Many Fish House RVs also have built-in fishing holes, so anglers can fish from inside the RV without having to venture out into the cold.

Do Fish House RVs come in different sizes and styles?

Yes, Fish House RVs come in a variety of sizes and styles to suit different needs and preferences. Some are smaller and more basic, providing a simple shelter for ice fishing, while others are larger and more luxurious, offering a wide range of amenities and comforts for an extended stay on the ice. Some Fish House RVs even have expandable sections to provide additional living and fishing space.

Can I rent a Fish House RV for my ice fishing trip?

Yes, many companies and individuals offer Fish House RV rentals for ice fishing trips. Renting a Fish House RV can be a convenient and cost-effective way to experience ice fishing with the comfort and amenities of an RV without having to invest in purchasing your own. Be sure to research rental options in the area where you plan to go ice fishing, as availability and rental rates may vary.

Can I tow a Fish House RV with my regular vehicle?

In many cases, you can tow a Fish House RV using your regular vehicle, as long as it's capable of handling the weight and size of the RV. It's essential to check the towing capacity of your vehicle before attempting to tow a Fish House RV, as exceeding your vehicle's limits can be dangerous and lead to accidents or damage. Additionally, you'll need the appropriate hitch and towing equipment to safely and securely tow the RV.

Are Fish House RVs only used for ice fishing?

While Fish House RVs are specifically designed for ice fishing, they can also be used for other purposes. Some people use them as regular RVs for camping trips or even as temporary living accommodations. However, it's important to note that Fish House RVs may not have all the same features and amenities as a traditional RV, so it's essential to consider what you need and want in an RV before using a Fish House RV for other purposes.

Do I need a special license to drive or tow a Fish House RV?

In most cases, you do not need a special license to drive or tow a Fish House RV, as long as you have a valid driver's license and your vehicle can safely handle the weight and size of the RV. However, regulations and requirements may vary depending on your location and the specific size and type of Fish House RV, so it's important to check local laws and regulations before driving or towing a Fish House RV.

Are there any safety precautions I should take when using a Fish House RV?

When using a Fish House RV, it's essential to follow safety precautions to ensure a secure and enjoyable experience. Some safety measures include ensuring that your vehicle can safely tow the RV, using appropriate hitching and towing equipment, and periodically checking the RV's connections and systems during your trip. Additionally, it's important to follow ice safety guidelines and be aware of ice conditions while on the ice with your Fish House RV.

How do I maintain my Fish House RV?

Proper maintenance is crucial to ensuring the longevity and functionality of your Fish House RV. This can include regular inspections of the RV's systems, including the heating system, plumbing, and electrical systems, as well as general cleaning and upkeep. Additionally, you should inspect and maintain any exterior components, such as the hitch, wheels, and tires, to ensure they are in good condition and functioning properly.

How do I winterize my Fish House RV for off-season storage?

To winterize your Fish House RV for off-season storage, you'll need to properly drain and protect the plumbing system from freezing temperatures, clean and store any perishable items, and disconnect and store any batteries. Additionally, you should inspect the RV for any damage or issues that need to be addressed before storing it for the winter. It's also essential to choose a suitable storage location, ideally away from direct sunlight, moisture, and other environmental factors that could cause damage.

What should I consider when purchasing a Fish House RV?

When purchasing a Fish House RV, consider factors such as your budget, the size and style of the RV, the amenities and features you require, and how often you plan to use it. It's also essential to consider your vehicle's towing capacity and whether it can safely tow the Fish House RV. Researching various brands and models, reading reviews, and talking to other ice fishermen can help you make an informed decision about the best Fish House RV for your needs.

Are there any popular brands or models of Fish House RVs?

There are several popular brands and models of Fish House RVs on the market, offering a variety of features, sizes, and styles to suit different needs and preferences. Some well-known brands include Ice Castle, Yetti, and Glacier, each offering a range of models with various amenities and capacities. To find the best Fish House RV for your needs, research different options and read reviews from other ice fishermen.

How much does a Fish House RV cost?

The cost of a Fish House RV can vary greatly depending on factors like size, brand, amenities, and features. Smaller, more basic models can start at around $5,000, while larger and more luxurious models can cost upwards of $50,000 or more. When determining your budget for a Fish House RV, be sure to factor in additional costs like insurance, registration, and maintenance, as well as any necessary towing equipment or upgrades for your vehicle.

Do I need insurance for my Fish House RV?

Yes, it's essential to have insurance coverage for your Fish House RV to protect your investment and provide financial protection in case of accidents, theft, or damage. Many insurance companies offer specialized RV insurance policies that can cover Fish House RVs, including coverage for personal property, liability, and additional living expenses. Be sure to research and compare insurance options to find the best coverage for your needs.

9 Best Fish House RVs for Ice Fishing

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What are the best fish house RVs, and what makes them different from a traditional RV?

A fish house recreational vehicle is a winter-ready travel trailer on hydraulics that lowers and seals to the ice. Once in place, the camper’s floor has portholes you can open and fish through.

The design of a fish house is unique and allows fishing enthusiasts to drop a line during winter while staying warm, fixing meals, and taking naps, all while never leaving the ice. An ice fishing camper is a massive upgrade from the typical ice fishing shanty; better yet, they function beautifully as a warm-weather camper too!

When you own a fish house RV, fishing and camping don’t have to stop when the ice melts. So will these best fish house RVs convince you to start winter camping on the ice? They just might!

Fish House Camper Features and Benefits

The design of a fish house often called a “wheelhouse” or “ice house,” revolves around making an ice fishing expedition as comfortable as possible.

A fish house can be simple, with a few ports, a convertible couch to bed, a wet bath, and a small kitchen. However, fancy wheelhouses will have full kitchens, sleeping quarters for a group of guests, six or more fishing ports, a full bathroom, extra storage, and other amenities that up the comfort and the price tag.

Here are the features that make fish house RVs special:

Adjustable Trailer Axles

An ice house trailer will have distinctive adjustable axles. These axles can lift into a slot in the camper undercarriage so that the trailer box can lower to the surface of the ice while the tires hug the camper’s sides.

The axle mechanism can work by manually cranking a lever or pushing a button to drop or lift the wheelhouse using winches or a hydraulic lift. The bottom edges of the trailer will seal to the ice, which eliminates the swaying of the RV from people moving about inside. Plus, you won’t get cold air drafts blowing into the camper’s interior when you open the ports on the floor.

Lighted Access Ports

Fishing trailers can have up to ten ports on the floor, with tightly-fitted covers that screw out of the holes when you’re ready to fish.

The best fish house will have LED blue lights under the edges of the ports. Blue light is not detectable by fish but allows humans to see the hole and upper expanse of water so that it’s easier to spot fish on the line.

High-quality fish houses are also pre-wired for sonar or underwater cameras so you can monitor conditions and schools of fish under the ice.

Rugged Construction and Materials

A fish house design requires rugged materials that can handle the rigors of travel and winter camping, which means harsh weather conditions and road vibrations aren’t a concern.

Heavy-duty roof trusses can handle deep snow accumulation without buckling. Thicker wall and floor framing provide more room for insulation and a sturdier structure to combat high winds or ice storms.

Along with standing up against winter elements, quality wheelhouse construction should equally handle summer heat and rain so you can use it all year round, increasing its value.

Increased Camper Insulation

An ice fishing camper will have air-tight, high R-value insulation to prevent cold winds from penetrating and overtaxing the RV’s heating and cooling systems.

Many top wheelhouse manufacturers use thick spray foam insulation in the walls, ceiling, and floor. Other brands may use rigid foam board insulation along with traditional fiberglass batting to fill in between tight spaces.

There will be extra insulation on the floor and underbelly to keep feet warm when the trailer sits directly on the ice and to ensure holding tanks and plumbing lines don’t freeze and crack.

Fishing-Specific Storage and Design

Inside most fish house campers, you’ll find long countertops that make it easier to lay out supplies, clean fish, or cut bait during your stay. In addition, storage areas are large enough to hold bulky or long fishing tackle and gear, so staying organized is easier.

How Thick Must Ice Be To Support A Fish House?

Pulling your fish house onto the ice is always a risk if you aren’t sure how much your truck and trailer weigh, along with how much weight the ice can support. The last thing you want is to have everything fall through the ice.

You also need to take into consideration other people and rigs on the ice that add more stress to the ice sheet. As a general guideline, here is a list of how much weight various ice thicknesses can support:

4 inches – 200 pounds
5 inches – 800 pounds
7.5 inches – Passenger car (2 tons)
8 inches – Light truck (2-1/2 tons)
10 inches – Medium truck (3-1/2 tons)
12 inches – Heavy truck (7-8 tons)
15 inches – Heavy-duty truck (10 tons)
20 inches – 25 tons

Try to stay within a safe range of your tow vehicle and fish house, and also follow other ice fishing guidelines for your state.

The 9 Best Fish House RVs For Ice Fishing

1. Ice Castle Eagle EXT Fish House

Price: Starts at $64,900
Specs:

Length – 28 feet
Fishing Holes – 9
Sleeps up to 7
GVWR – 11,000 pounds

The Eagle EXT Ice Castle Fish House delivers the ultimate ice-fishing and camping comfort. The trailer floor plan includes a slideout for extra interior space. The amenities and features are top-of-the-line, and once you step inside, it’s clear this fishing camper is worth the investment for both winter and summer RV trips.

Additional standout features:

Residential-style kitchen
Full bathroom with shower
3 Jack-knife sofas
60-inch loft bed with lift
Wood-look vinyl plank flooring
21-foot awning
Gas fireplace
Dual axles

Ice Castle Eagle EXT Fish House (Video)

2. Glacier Ice House 17EXP

Price: Starts at $42,000
Specs:

Length – 17 feet
Fishing Holes – 6
Sleeps up to 5
GVWR – 5,500 pounds

Out of the 9 best house RVs for ice fishing, The Glacier Ice House Trailer 17EXP floorplan tucks a lot of amenities into such a compact trailer. Guests can enjoy a bathroom with a separate shower, a full kitchen, lots of counter space and storage, and flexible sleeping arrangements. The unit is insulated and sealed against winter weather, but it does come pre-wired if you want to add an air conditioner for all-season use.

Additional standout features:

Lighted ice holes
Efficient heating system with a forced-air furnace
Jack-knife sofa, two bunks, and a convertible dinette
Flip down table
An extra-strong roof truss system
19-foot power awning
Solid cedar interior walls
Durable diamond plate trim and kickplates

Glacier Ice House 17EXP (Video)

3. AlumaIce AI824TAH Wheelhouse

Price: Starts at $50,000
Specs:

Length – 24 feet
Fishing Holes – 7
Sleeps up to 6
GVWR – 7,000 pounds

The AlumaIce AI824TAH fish house RV is another rock-solid camping and fishing trailer big enough for a small family or group. With an aluminum hydraulic tandem axle frame and remote control, you can avoid manually cranking or cables snapping while lowering or raising the wheelhouse. The standard features are impressive, but you’ll need to upgrade if you want a toilet, shower, fridge, awning, or other amenities to make camping more comfortable.

Additional standout features:

Cedar tongue and groove ceiling and walls
Spray foam insulation on floor, ceiling, walls
Lighted fishing holes
Seamless white composite exterior roof and side panels
Dual pane tinted windows
Custom cedar cabinets with LED lighting
The kitchen has a microwave and a 3-burner stove
Jack-knife sofa, bunk, and a convertible dinette

AlumaIce AI824TAH Wheelhouse (video)

4. Core Ice 8019ATX RV Package

Price: Starts at $52,500
Specs:

Length – 22 feet
Fishing Holes – 4
Sleeps up to 4
GVWR – 5,720 pounds

The Core Ice 8019ATX Fish House with the RV package features the super-rugged Intelli-core Structural Composite material. The material covers the entire camper and is lightweight, waterproof, UV-resistant, and won’t rot so that you can enjoy years of carefree fishing and camping trips. While the interior is no-frills, it does offer a highly functional floor plan suitable for small families.

Additional standout features:

Fully-insulated rear ramp door
Electric lift rear bed
High-efficiency Truma furnace
Bathroom with sink and flushing toilet
The kitchen includes a microwave, 3-burner stove, sink, oven, and exhaust fan
Removable dinette
4-season water/plumbing system
Low-profile AC
Electric brakes, power jacks, and remote-controlled electric lift system

Core Ice 8019ATX RV Package (Video)

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5. Yetti Outdoors Grand Escape GE824-DRKF

Price: Starts at $85,000
Specs:

Length – 24 feet
Fishing Holes – 8
Sleeps up to 9
GVWR – 8,000 pounds

Of the 9 Fish House RVs for ice fishing, The Yetti Grand Escape GE824-DRKF floor plan is ideal for large fishing parties but works equally well for hunting and camping excursions. With dual axles and a hydraulic lift system, setting up and breaking camp is easier than ever. The luxurious interior makes the most of every inch and the fishing ports are nicely separated.

Additional standout features:

Residential-style kitchen
Full bathroom with shower
Three bunks, 60″ queen bed lift, convertible dinette, and jack-knife sofa
30,000 BTU forced air furnace
Cedar tongue and groove walls and ceilings with lacquer finish
Power awning with LED lights
Rubber wood-look flooring
Dual axles, electric brakes, and removable tongue

Yetti Outdoors Grand Escape GE824-DRKF (Video)

6. Forest River Grey Wolf 16GR Fish House

Price: Starts at $36,900
Specs:

Length – 26.5 feet
Fishing Holes – 8
Sleeps up to 5
GVWR – 5,476 pounds

The Forest River Grey Wolf 16GR fish house is a mid-size trailer with a clever floor plan to make the most of the interior space while fishing and for general camping. Thermopane windows let you take in the view and check the ice and weather conditions from the flip-down bunk and dinette area. There is also a sofa for relaxing while you fish or when you need extra sleeping space.

Additional standout features:

35,000 BTU furnace
Closet with cassette toilet
Drop-down rod cabinets
Lighted fishing holes with camera pre-wire
Front entry door
Kitchenette with sink, microwave, and cooktop
Multimedia center
Troyer Never Fail Lift System

Forest River Grey Wolf 16GR Fish House (Video)

7. Yetti Angler Edition A614 DRK

Price: Starts at $34,500
Specs:

Length – 16 feet
Fishing Holes – 6
Sleeps up to 6
GVWR – 3,400 pounds

The Yetti Angler Edition A614-DRK is an excellent small fish house with a slim 6.5-feet-wide profile that is towable by many SUVs. The lightweight aluminum framing won’t rust and can withstand rough terrain without failure. The interior space is cozy and features cedar wood plank walls and comfortable seating near the fishing ports.

Additional standout features:

Kitchen microwave, oven, and cooktop with hood
One-piece arched fiberglass roof
2 jackknife sofas with bunks above
Extra-large front closet for gear (or cassette toilet)
Wood-look rubber flooring
EZ Crank lift system with winch
20,000 BTU furnace
Single axle with electric brakes

Yetti Angler Edition A614 DRK (Video)

8. Ice Castle Traveler Fish House Fifth Wheel

Price: Starts at $74,200
Specs:

Length – 32 feet
Fishing Holes – 6
Sleeps up to 6
GVWR – 10,750 pounds

The Ice Castle Traveler Fish House is the ultimate choice if you’re looking for a spacious 8-foot-wide ice fishing fifth-wheel with a cedar interior full of high-end amenities. The all-season construction and materials provide comfortable year-round camping opportunities without skimping on the fishing-centered features such as long cabinets, drawers, and countertops for gear storage and prep.

Additional standout features:

Residential-style kitchen with 110V fridge
Large bathroom with shower
Bedroom with slideout, king bed, fireplace, and closets
48-inch dinette with lift bed above
60-inch bay with cabinets
19-foot power awning with LED lights
35,000 BTU furnace
Exterior speakers with lights
Dual axle hydraulic frame

Ice Castle Traveler Fish House Fifth Wheel (Video)

9. Glacier Ice House 12LE

Price: Starts at $24,900
Specs:

Length – 12 feet
Fishing Holes – 4
Sleeps 2
GVWR – 2,900 pounds

The Glacier Ice House 12LE features a simple floor plan best for one or two people, with seating and sleeping on the rear bunks. The slim 6.5 ft. width makes it easy to tow and store inside a garage between fishing trips. The wood interior feels like a camping cabin, and you can opt for upgrades to give you the amenities you require.

Additional standout features:

TV antenna
Large front closet
2-Burner cooktop
20,000 BTU furnace
Netting storage
LED ice hole lights
Dual-pane windows
Hand crank with 1-3/4” strap

Glacier Ice House 12LE (Video)

Fish House Camper Wrap Up

The best fish house RV performs seamlessly for ice fishing adventures while allowing occupants to stay warm, cook, wash up, and sleep comfortably. With many ice fishing trailers offering an optional air conditioner and other standard RV amenities, you can easily take it to campgrounds every season of the year.

We hope you check out the 9 best fish house RVs impressive for ice fishing campers above, and find the perfect “catch!”

9 Best Fish House RVs for Ice Fishing