Winter in New England brings anglers to the ice for a tradition that dates as far back as 4,000 years: ice fishing. Once a method of survival for people in frigid climates, ice fishing is now a hobby, too, and once the waters across New England freeze solid, it's a fun way to enjoy fresh air, spend time with friends and family, and catch fresh fish for dinner. With the right setup, ice fishing can be a fun winter activity for people of all ages. It's full of friendly competition, too, with ice fishing derbies running all winter long, letting kids and adults win prizes and support local causes.
Sounds fun, right? If you're new to the sport, start by reading up on local laws and regulations around ice fishing; buy a license if your state requires one; and learn about ice safety. Then, make sure you have warm clothing, boots, an ice auger, fishing rod and tackle, and a cooler to store your catch. You're ready to go!
But how will you stay warm out there all day? Some folks bring a chair and blanket, while others bring a pop-up ice fishing shelter, but the most comfortable ice fishing enthusiasts out there know the best solution: ALCOM's lightweight, rust-proof all-aluminum ice fishing shacks. For a look at our game-changing ice shacks and some of the biggest ice fishing derbies in Maine, keep reading; there’s still time to snag an ALCOM aluminum ice shack and kick-start a new winter passion that helps you stock the freezer.
Aluminum ice fishing shacks are simple, but genius. Built from the same lightweight, rust-resistant welded aluminum construction as our car haulers and cargo trailers, these ice shacks have a 9" standard height platform and custom rolled galvanized steel skis instead of axles, wheels and tires. They're designed to haul behind a snowmobile across the ice, with a spring-loaded tow hitch installed on every model from the smallest 4' x 6' shack to the sprawling 8' x 12' model.
Available with insulation in the walls and ceiling, our aluminum ice fishing shacks have standard .030” aluminum side panels (choose your favorite color), water-resistant decking, and a roof vent. Each ice shack size comes standard with a 32” x 72” access door with a paddle handle and three (3) 12" x 40" ice shack windows. It's a simple, open-concept space you can outfit however you want.
Want to customize your ice shack even more? We can upgrade it for you before it leaves the factory; add your finishing touches at home. Upgrade your windows to radius style, screened, sliding windows in 8” x 12” and 24” x 36”. Get a solar panel package, LED porch lights, interior dome lights, a 110V power package, a USB wall receptacle, or all of the above. Add TPO coin flooring from ALCOM for extra durability, water resistance, and easy cleaning. You could also add cabinets and a foldaway sleeper sofa, plus as many fishing holes as you would like in the trailer floor and protective plastic sleeves.
In the off-season, you can use the ice shack as a bunk house at the lake, a storage unit in the backyard, or a guest room for your in-laws. It's all up to you -- we're just here to help you get the aluminum ice shack you need to get started.
With your gear and aluminum ice shack prepared, it's time to find your fishing spot and set up!
Interested in competition? Check out Untamed Mainer’s comprehensive directory of Maine ice fishing derbies for 2026; find location information, fee and trophy details, and more in one frequently updated place by keeping their directory bookmarked. Here are more New England-specific resources; don't forget to search online for your local laws, license requirements, and ice fishing derby details.
In Maine, there are a few long-running ice fishing derbies that support local organizations and causes -- here are a few of the flagship events coming up this winter:
Whether you're new to ice fishing or ready to upgrade with your first ice shack, ALCOM is here to help you make the most of your outdoor time this winter and stay warm and sheltered on the ice. Check out our full line of aluminum ice fishing shacks when you browse our brand sites below. Explore options like lighting packages, cabinets, an elevated 24" platform with aluminum deck, and more!
When you're ready to invest in your own light, easy to transport, durable aluminum ice shack, use our Dealer Locator tools to find your nearest ALCOM trailers dealer. We'll see you on the ice!