I still wouldn't drive a car/truck, thickness is sporadic on S.Mn lakes.
I was on Mazaska 2 Sat. ago and found 9 in the bay and 2 on the north side.
But most lakes closer to Mankato are majority 9ish inches thick, but you will still find 4 and 6.
Also download the app Ice Report https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.icereportsoftware.icereport .
No snow here yet, bring cleats.
Depending on whether you leave the coop out or not, consider a solar panel. Battery tender makes a few of different sizes that are cheaper than a good battery and have electronics built in that won’t overcharge or hurt battery. Make a few sizes. I find this one works well if you fish a couple times a week.
Battery Tender 12V, 830mA, 15W Solar Battery Charger https://www.amazon.com/dp/B004Q820TQ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_tai_8asyFbM8H08A9
If you fish every day it has trouble keeping up and fully charging in a day. Usually a couple days it’ll get back for a full night worth of fishing.
holy crap, $150? i bought a string of IP67 Waterproof LEDs and this LED controller then I took an old AC adapter I had laying around, cut off the plug and put on some alligator clips to clip it to and power it using my flasher battery. A few loose zip ties around the pop-up shack ceiling poles and I thread the light strip through those and I have lights all around my shack ceiling.
If your not to pinched for cash you can get a eyoyo underwater cam with a 7 in screen for usually cheap as seen HERE
I really enjoy very light ice braid with a tiny barrel swivel attached to 18-24" of 6lb flouro or mono finished with a tiny quick snap ( https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0894HJ6GZ ). I love these quick snaps. I never have to tie anything. My swivel is small enough to fit thru my eyehole however that is really only necessary when storing my rod.
Sure.
Garmin striker 4 - https://www.amazon.com/dp/B017NI17HQ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_fabc_nnb1Fb98YCK3T?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Sheffield ammo can - https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07M5VB1G5/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_fabc_lob1FbKCTASR1?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Broom handle from dollar store
Pool noodle from dollar store
12v battery from amazon
Alligator clips to connect to battery
Electrical tape
Rope strapping from ACE
Zip ties
Random Styrofoam (I used some pipe backer i had lying around)
Bolts/screws to assemble
I just have the battery stored inside the ammo can, surrounded by foam to insulate it from the cold. Mounted the striker 4 on the outside and drilled holes for wiring. Cut a cheap broom handle to mount the transducer, wrapped in a pool noodle and zip tie. Mounted the rope strapping to lid to hold the transducer set up. Voila!
I have the Garmin Striker 4 and love it! I didn’t buy the ice bundle though, and instead saved money and bought a lunch box off amazon to make my own ice kit. Here is the amazon link - Insulated Lunch Box, EGRD Lunch Bag with Double Sections Waterproof Cool Bag Reusable Lunchbox for women/Picnic/Boating/Beach/Fishing/Work & 3 Pockets https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07KD5VHKZ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_fabc_XT8TFbRDEES7T. The exact last lunch box it no longer sold, but it could be a starting point for anyone else who wants to build their own travel kit.
Just a cheap adapter I found on Amazon. I believe it was this one: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B074LZX2LZ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_9FvuAbXCDYHAF
But they are all over Amazon and eBay for any kind of auger. I'd suggest getting one with a safety mechanism to keep the auger from falling through the hole, if it come loose from the chuck. I didn't think about that when I ordered this one. I had to rig something up myself.
Just a little tip from a guy whose made every attempt, mistake and failed all possible projects. There is a tool for every possible conceivable problem.
Look at a “stepped drill bit” to widen a hole like that. Come in all sizes.
Hope it’ll help on the next one. One other thing I did in my coop was buy a cigarette lighter adapter with usb outputs (makes charging phones easy” that has a voltage indicator to see the charge on you batter.
QC 3.0 Cigarette Lighter Outlet Splitter, 12V USB Charger Waterproof Power Socket Adapter DIY Kit with Voltmeter LED Display Dual USB Ports for Rocker Switch Panel on Car Boat Marine RV, etc https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07TTM3N33/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_tai_0HXrFbJG9GM1H
There’s also just a cigarette lighter adapter you could stick in the socket you have that has a couple usb and a voltage indicator
Cigarette Lighter Adapter 3 Socket Cigarette Lighter Splitter with LED Voltage Display Dual USB Car Charger On/Off Switches 12V Car Splitter Adapter for iPhone iPad Samsung GPS Dashcam Replaceable fus https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07CM7PJQB/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_tai_3KXrFbCEBRGG7
$32.98 on Amazon, I was thinking about doing this same thing.
I was there, it sucks having to buy summer lures & winter lures.
Check out something like this: https://fishfrostbite.com/products/4mm-tungsten-jig-1-32oz With a wax worm or an artificial wax worm (https://www.amazon.com/Toasis-Plastic-Artificial-Silicone-Assorted/dp/B072Q96XCC)
OP my brother uses this one https://www.amazon.com/Frabill-Aerator-Storage-Portable-Capacity/dp/B00OW7K250/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?crid=MQSBLR1356SL&keywords=frabill+bait+station+ice&qid=1670360626&sprefix=frabill+bait+station+ice%2Caps%2C169&sr=8-3
We switched out the aerators for after market ones that use D batteries so they last through the day and night. I’ve had no major complaints besides one day while in a blizzard my bait station froze over the lid since water that had splashed around on it while moving spots. Other wise no major complaints. Never used an Engel so have no opinion on them.
A small paint roller grid like this one will clip right on the handle. Only thing to watch out for is that they’re usually galvanized so I give it a good burn outside first.
Mix this with a garmin striker 4 + https://www.amazon.com/Converter-Inverter-Connector-Automatic-Regulator/dp/B094VW5FPH
You have an ultralight hole hopping setup that relies only on drill batteries.
Id finish kitting out that pail, cut out the other side of that organizer, put in a foam liner, and get it set for minnows.
https://www.amazon.com/WL3506-Lighted-Organizer-Retractable-Included/dp/B00A738IO0
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Put the sensor on the tip up flag and the alarm on the tip up
You gotta find a cot that's short enough! That was my only problem. I This one just barely fits and its the smallest I could find! https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01GLGRWLQ/ref=twister_B0B94L5PC4?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
They work great, keep them from spilling like the regular Gulp jars I can fit 3 or 4 jars of 1in Gulp minnows in a jar (4 may be a little too full). Keep one of minnows, 1 of the imposter spikes and whatever else. Other two are for chopped shrimp, and perch eyes in oil.
cant speak to value of old sled but that hub is only $250 right now on AMazon, I wonder what the deal with that is? https://www.amazon.com/THUNDERBAY-Pop-Up-Portable-Fishing-Shelter/dp/B019J85SJQ?th=1
There’s a rechargeable light I bought on Amazon that hooks perfectly onto the crossbeams of that model. It is so nice and puts out soft light. I would probably get two of them. And get some nice director-style chairs with the side tables. Here is the light
Surprisingly cheap. This is what I have in Alberta Canada and it works great. Doesn’t burn much fuel and is quiet. I’ll be sweating in my ice tent at -40c
I bought this one and it has seemingly worked well:
https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B07DL9H9MD
I say seemingly because when I have used it for camping overnight with a Mr. Buddy heater it has registered 0 ppm all night. I asked a group on FB called Trick Your Hub (great group for outfitting an ice house) about it, and they said that's normal. The Mr. Buddy heaters are designed to work so efficiently that under normal usage they will produce no carbon monoxide, they only emit any if they malfunction. They told me that it's the other cheaper, more primitive heaters that produce under regular functioning. I have one of those that doubles as a cooking burner and although it's great for making hot meals on the ice, I would never go to sleep in an enclosed area with it on.
Tipups get spooled with dacron kite line, swivel, to a flouro leader (length/weight depending on target species, 6lb as default).
This stuff in 50lb or 120lb is fantastic for tipup backing and handling with gloves or wet hands: https://www.amazon.com/emma-kites-Braided-Dacron-Polyester/dp/B01BDLJDV6 Red/White is super visible in the water and on the ice.
Jig rods depends.
Deep water/shanty rods get a few layers of 15lb mono backing, with 10lb braid to a bearing swivel and a flouro leader (4-8lb).
Shallow rods/hole hopping is mono to bearing swivel, to a flouro leader (2-6lb).
Pretty much palomars everywhere, or uni for backing to main line.
I've been buying pairs of these for a while, carry a few with me a day so a couple can charge in the car while I wear one.
Soft Digits Headlamp Flashlight,... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07WNLJ66V?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
I have something like this but I think I got it at Fleet Farm. It works great and the rods come out of the opening during transit.
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https://www.amazon.com/Frabill-1642-Strato-Bucket-Seat/dp/B0002N2FD0?ref\_=ast\_sto\_dp
I’m having trouble finding an extension. Do you mind me asking where you got yours.
There’s one on Amazon Canada. But it doesn’t look like it’s threaded. The questions and replies doesn’t make it clear either.
Here is the link:
Just do it right and get an ultralight camping stove and cookware kit
The stove is tiny and screws onto a small white gas container.
There are tons of iterations of this on amazon. Purpose built and pretty affordable
Island of Boa Microphone Stand Tray, Clamp-On Music Stand Shelf, Phone Holder for Microphone, Stand Sound Card Tray with Phone Holder - Plastic, Stage, Office, Livestream - Complete with Stylus Pen https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09PFGYDFX/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_i_SAFVEZPPP9HY4JQXVRZC?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Island of Boa Microphone Stand Tray, Clamp-On Music Stand Shelf, Phone Holder for Microphone, Stand Sound Card Tray with Phone Holder - Plastic, Stage, Office, Livestream - Complete with Stylus Pen https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09PFGYDFX/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_i_SAFVEZPPP9HY4JQXVRZC?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
I eliminated the lead battery and use this. I also run the garmin in my kayak and keep the battery pack in a small pelican case. LINK TalentCell Rechargeable 6000mAh Lithium ion Battery Pack for LED Strip and CCTV Camera,12V DC Portable Li-ion Batteries with AC/DC 12.6V 1A Charger, Black https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00MF70BPU/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_i_S6XVA1Q186CVK4AERCMQ
Ice Auger Drill Adapter with Handle - 18mm/0.720" Output Shaft Diameter - Steel Cordless Drill Attachment for Ice Auger Drill Conversion https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07NPHP63Q/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_fabc_3588R7S4TXH04WZDYMTS?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Here is a link from Walmart , but a lot of places sell them and there are a few different styles
I might order one of these guys too, anyone tried them out before?
I am trying these..cheap enough to take a chance
These fold sideways an
This-
Flame King YSN5LB 5 Pound Propane Tank Cylinder, Great for Portable Grills, Fire Pits, Heaters and Overlanding, White https://www.amazon.com/dp/B077BLDL7T/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_JCYMRRPJGHG46VYE59ZS
Buy this or something similar to hang off the roof.
Does 1000x better than the fan on big buddy ever did
Appreciate the advice. Do you think this would work?
12V Sealed Lead Acid (SLA) Battery Charger 1300mA, with Short Circuit Protection https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07F8WM7WZ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_733TPQWK23VQFQETMC5S
Friend has one but I prefer the 13 fishing 13 FISHING - Freefall Carbon - Inline Ice Fishing Reels - 2.5:1 Gear Ratio https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B08W8C48K1/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_4YN6NA5CGKJVBWDR5MAJ?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
I’ve been looking at getting one of these:
Trademark Innovations Triple Style Tri Camp Chair with Steel Frame https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01N7TLJXS/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_FJS0MG06XAY6VFW7PZ8R
I have a fatfish 949i, and that would be enough for my wife dog and I, or when just the dog and I go out I wouldn’t have to bring a bed for him.
I have this one. It is shipped by HT Enterprises and is essentially their auger. It works great
Late to the party here but I'd also suggest some sort of actual tow hitch, don't just use the rope on your shelter because the first time you try to stop too quickly that shelter is going right into the track. Especially damaging if you've got spikes/studs on your track.
I see a lot of posts about adding led light strips and running off a 12v battery. I just use a dome light. It’s cheaper, will charge your phone if needed, and can be used for other activities like camping.
LED Camping Lantern, Solar & USB Rechargeable Camping Light, 4800mAh Power Bank, Portable Light with Remote,5 Light Mode for Emergency Hurricane Outage https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08X289DK9/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_8SNRKY50WAP8QNABMJ37
It's the Striker Cast GPS, not the 4, my mistake.
Garmin Striker Cast, Castable Sonar with GPS, Pair with Mobile Device and Cast from Anywhere, Reel in to Locate and Display Fish on Smartphone or Tablet (010-02246-02) https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B08LDZR6WH/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_i_K0DA0V7SPDK3Z9NC1PTE
Picking out specific fishing equipment without knowing the species of fish he targets is tough.
However, I finally splurged and bought myself an ice fishing “suit” which consists of the bibs and jacket. They normally are $300+ per jacket or bib so definitely not cheap.
However, if you watch Amazon you can get them for $150. Right now there is a Size M jacket (this fits way more like a large - I’m 6’0” 200ish and this M is almost big)
These jacket are extremely warm and they float. I actually fell through thin ice one time in shallow water close to shore and it’s amazing how well the floatation works. It helps to get you back up on the ice by yourself.
The bibs are way harder to find on sale, but here is the jacket link:
StrikerICE Predator Jacket https://www.amazon.com/dp/B075NSSC5S/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_STKH7CYB8PSVNK2QWJHC?psc=1
With all transparency, I have not bought this rod/reel yet. After a lot of research, I settled on the (13 fishing widow maker)[13 FISHING - Widow Maker Deadstick Ice Rod - 32" ML (Medium Light) - Evolve Engage Reel Seat - WMDS32ML https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01L0N9RUE/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_HW70ZDEQBPTJHXAV2ESY?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1] and the (Piscifun Carbon X, a reel I have used and love)[Piscifun Carbon X Spinning Reel - Carbon Frame and Rotor, Ultralight 5.1 OZ Spinning Fishing Reel, 5.2:1-6.2:1 High Speed Gear Ratio, 10+1 Shieled BB for Freshwater and Saltwater https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07L6GQF4P/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_5ENKF55CHZ22QESTTZFH?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1]
I have a pair that's a different brand but very similar to these that I highly recommend. Been using them for 5 years and I love them. Being able to jig with them is great since you can use your finger tips still.
not from Bass pro, but I bought these for myself and for my son... they are perfect. I never think about my feet while ice fishing now
https://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/B0036FT06Q/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
I got a pair of these https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B074L6RWGW/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o07_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1 and really like them. They're lightweight, cheap and waterproof. I could do without the bright yellow, but I can put up with that for the fit and comfort.
I found that too, and this Garmin Striker 4 with Portable Kit https://www.amazon.com/dp/B017NI1IJI/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_eLbNFbSQ7E12A
And this Garmin Striker Plus 4 Ice Fishing Bundle, Includes Portable Striker Plus 4 Fishfinder and Dual Beam-IF Transducer https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08HPVW5KW/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_dObNFbJSG04D0
So I’m not really sure what I need but those 2 come with a striker unit I already have as a backup for not much more.
If you are going to invest in "ice fishing bibs" get ones that have built in floatation. Otherwise, you are just getting fancy branded snow bibs. If you are cheap like me, these are perfect, lasted through 3 ice seasons so far. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0032UJ2C2/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_eKVLFb7XGRNW1
https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B000FH5MGA/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_7XULFbYT9V66S?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
I bought these a couple years ago and really like them. They're not waterproof like I think some are, but they are warm and I can still move around in them. I bought them big so I could still layer up underneath to stay toasty warm.
No problem happy to help.. That is exactly what I did..i mounted to to a smaller cooler it works perfectly...for hooking the battery up u can do it several different ways the easiest to me is with what are called spade wire terminals all u do is crimp it to ur 2 fish finder wires and you can easily slide on and off your battery..below is a link, these are literally 20 cents at a hardware store I wouldn't buy this Amazon kit but just to show u what I'm referring to..tons of YouTube videos as well in case u need a reference.
$330 compared to $550-$600. It can be used as an earth auger but have an 8inch I’ve fishing bit.
Landworks Heavy Duty Eco-Friendly Electric Power Cordless Auger Power Head w/Steel 8"x39" Ice Auger, Lithium Ion Battery & Charger for Ice Burrowing/Drilling & Ice Fishing (Ice Auger 8" Set)
Try amazon, you can get good pull over cleats for very cheap. I have these and they're awesome https://www.amazon.com/SPGOOD-Crampons-Stainless-Mountaineering-Spikes-Black/dp/B07XXQDY3C/ref=sr_1_2_sspa?keywords=ice+cleats&qid=1574304780&sr=8-2-spons&psc=1&spLa=ZW5jcnlwdGVkUXVhbGlmaWVyPUExVzZTUEEwV0c4T0hKJmVuY3J5cHRlZElkPUEwMzg2NzIyMTdFOEhXWEI2N1VRTSZlbmNyeXB0ZWRBZElkPUEwMDUwMDg1MTdGRk1PQVRLN05GVCZ3aWRnZXROYW1lPXNwX2F0ZiZhY3Rpb249Y2xpY2tSZWRpcmVjdCZkb05vdExvZ0NsaWNrPXRydWU=
If price is an issue take a look at these boots. They are very similar to the Arctic Pro and have good reviews. Boots
I bought this one and it's been great for the price. Battery lasts most of the day and charges reasonably quickly. The little box it comes in is pretty sturdy and a very handy size, and the picture quality is very solid. Only complaint is that it doesnt have AV out. Only screen it will display to is the built in, unless I'm missing something. Get yourself a tripod for it, too.
I just got this bucket for tossing in my sled when I walk out. Its got space for two rods on it and the aerator add on is nice, can just find an insulated liner and you've got it as a bait bucket too. I have a tackle lid and seat lid for if I'm bringing my pop up or not, and if you aren't running with minnows on a given day you can always drop a couple tip ups in the bucket and be ready to go. even with the ATV or truck having everything in pails is nice for getting going between stops.
https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B00A738IO0/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o03_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
I picked up a Humminbird flasher this year since I like the option of being able to mount the finder on my kayak for both seasons - if you went with the non-ice specific finders you could probably even get a handlebar or cargo rack mount for the fish finder.
Some kind of sled to haul your stuff and to haul fish back. It's so much nicer to pull the sled them be carrying everything. When you break through a layer of slush you don't have to worry about spilling all your gear.
Also a nice little jig box. this one is my go to and man is it nice just to throw it in your pocket and not worry about it opening up while hole hoping.
OHHH and the free Navionics app for your phone. It's free and you can put pins on your hot spots.
Lighting was my best move on my two man. I picked up these on Amazon.
Led Strip Lights, 16.4ft LED Flexible Strip Lights, 150 Units 5050 RGB LED Light Strip Kit with 44Key Remote Controller and Power Supply,Non-Waterproof 12V DC, for Home Kitchen Bedroom Car https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07Y1VR15N/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_IOlXDb40PZ8FZ
I added an adaptor to my Vexlar rig and power them with that. I have an additional battery I can bring to keep it lit while roaming outside (or when it turns into a warming hut/playhouse for the fam).
A decent toe bar and track kit are essential if you're doing any serious sledding or use an atv. I pull mine around with my '92 Honda 300 4 wheeler.
Grew up on Mille Lacs and am familiar with the big lakes. Too populated down there though. I married a girl from Hartford and was in Fon du Lac last weekend for a wedding too. Small world.
Happy fishing!
I use a hard sided case with foam as well, this one although it was $50 when I bought it: https://www.amazon.com/Eagle-Claw-Accessory-Fishing-Combos/dp/B01MXCHY2O/ref=sr_1_3?crid=4ZS1693O22S3&dchild=1&keywords=eagle+claw+ice+rod+case&psc=1&qid=1572459018&sprefix=eagle+claw+ice+%2Caps%2C134&sr=8-3
Here is the link... 15.99 now but u can find these as cheap as 7.99 at times
Probably only other thing to mention is a 12 volt battery charger if u don't have one.. Here is an example I have the black and decker one it's a few bucks more but if ur going cheapest route this will. Work fine
Stuff like this should work: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B002CTQYMK/ref=sspa_dk_detail_4?psc=1
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I'm curious the design, size, mobility of a shanty with a woodstove and the viability of wood in general. I assume you're pulling the shanty out with a truck and hauling wood via the same truck. Just trying to understand as I typically see most fishing on her as someone walking out with a sled. Hauling enough wood to last for 12-15 hours seems like weight I personally would be trying to avoid.
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Would love to see your setup when done!
Thanks for the response. The Pflueger GX7 25B Trion is coming in at the same price as the Sienna at $50CAD (except I'm not sure what the difference is in their models.)
Is this the rod you are referring to? Fenwick HMG Ice Spinning Rod - HMGICE25LM
the rod I have been using is a medium light, I don't think I would want to go with anything heavier. Our target fish is walleye. Not sure I if I could/should go to a "light rod" or stay with a medium-light
for lighting I bought a strip of waterproof LED lights from amazon - this set. I took an old 12V AC adapter i had laying around, cut the wall plug off, seperated the wires and put on aligator clips which attach to my flasher battery. I put a zip tie loosely around each ceiling pole and string the LEDs through those loops. it's WAY brighter than a single light at the top of the hub and no weird shadows.
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edit: that strip will require a controller like this one, but you can dim or brighten the light, and change colors, much more versatile.
I second the use of a high-powered, brush-less drill with an ice auger. One of the best decisions I've ever made. However, I would not recommend the clam plate. Too bulky, time consuming to connect/disconnect the drill and the mechanical parts can break/freeze. They are much sleeker and simplistic options for around or under $20. (Not the one I own but just an example - https://www.amazon.com/Vendetta-Precision-Ice-Auger-Adapter/dp/B074M2TGXN/ref=sr_1_16_sspa?ie=UTF8&qid=1541703712&sr=8-16-spons&keywords=ice+auger+drill+conversion&psc=1) The clam plate handles are nice as ther provide added leverage, but I use the adjustable side handle that came with my drill and that works just fine.
Note: Not all drills have the capability of performing this task.
I'm just using a gun rack type thingy. Works ok. There are better ones available, but this was an inexpensive solution
Kolpin Rhino Grip XL - Single - 21510 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001Q4UBVC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_5I72zbP49F51Z
The concept is good for tip-ups. I don't have experience with your isulator, but have used NEPs with great success.