Hubs

[hp1]

What is the recommended ice fishing hub a lot of you are using? Looking between an Eskimo Outbreak 350XD, 450 XD, and possibly the Otter Vortex Pro Lodge. Any pros, cons, or other recommendations? Also, how is the setup and takedown on these when using alone? I currently use a flip-over, but I am looking for more room with the hub when fishing with more people.

 

[Callem'In]

I have the 650XD. Replaced an otter lodge flip over. I can set up the hub faster than my flip over now that i've done it a few times. Can be tricky in the wind. I set an ice anchor in a corner and one on a guy line and it has not been a concern in the wind. The room in a hub is hard to beat.

 

[1850reata]

I bought a Clam X600 last year at the Scheels sale for when I take the kids out. Space, height and full door are awesome. Only draw back I have is the weight but I'd only use it when others are with. Even used it at deer camp as a cooking station this year.

 

[Ruttin]

In the wind they suck. Period. The room is nice when you get them anchored. Purchase or make an ice anchor attachment for a cordless drill and anchor appropriately.

 

[Sluggo]

I have had a Eskimo 949I for several years and really like it. It’s plenty warm and not too heavy for me to handle myself. Setup is easy. Eskimos are reasonably priced too. I don’t have a problem with the corner doors but if I was looking at a new one, I would give the new side door a look.

 

[wslayer]

Clam Bigfoot, they do suck to set up in the wind.
Lot of work setting up,hauling heater chairs rod locker lunch in, then tearing down removing everything and doing it all over again when moved and set back up. They certainly have their highs and lows.

 

[Auggie]

I picked up an Eskimo 450 A few years ago and like it. The storage bag could be bigger, but otherwise I've been happy. I went with that as it was the only model at the time that had the open door. Taking kids out that open door was a necessity. It is starting to feel a little small for me and my three boys. In a year or so I'll purchase a bigger one. The 450 would be great for three or four adults.

I still have my Fish trap Voyager and would still pick this or similar flip over if I could only have ice house.

 

[CatDaddy]

Whatever you get, make sure it has anchor holes in the skirt. My buddy has a Clam and it doesn't have them. Kind of sucked in the wind even though we banked it.

Use a drill and anchor attachment as mentioned. Frustrating, especially in the cold, to try and get them started by hand.

When in doubt, anchor guy lines on the hubs facing into the wind. Sucks to have a hub "pop in" when you aren't expecting it, especially if close to the heater or you're fighting a fish.

You want insulated for sure.

Get a fan to push hot air down.

Don't get bigger than what you're going to use it for.

Use foam floor mats, at least under your feet. Makes a huge difference.

GET A ZIPPERED BAG (if it doesn't come with one). My biggest frustration was trying to stuff it back in a bag that only had an opening in one end. I have the Eskimo 949i and bought a bag for a different Eskimo that has a zipper instead. Frustrations disappeared.

The new hub accessoried (shelves, rod holders, etc.) are nice but not a requirement.

Lots of options for lighting - search around and get creative

 

[MSA]

My brother just bought a pretty impressive insulated hub for 70 bucks on temu

 

[Traxion]

I wouldn't do any smaller than a 450. I love mine other than the bag is a touch tight. Fits 3 adults comfortably.