View Full Version : Clam base camp - Thermal or not?
I'm trying to decide whether to get a Clam Base Camp($179) or Clam Base Camp Thermal($279). Does the thermal make a big difference? Most fishing will be pond fishing in southern Iowa with temps rarely below -5(when I go). Decided on hub style for additional room and weight. Don't have a ATV or snowmobile to pull one around and don't want to drive on ice with truck. Anybody with experiences with either one of these shelters? Thanks.
slipperybob
12-01-2010, 10:35 AM
What it will do is reduce a rain in your shelter.
Chode2235
12-01-2010, 01:49 PM
I'm trying to decide whether to get a Clam Base Camp($179) or Clam Base Camp Thermal($279). Does the thermal make a big difference? Most fishing will be pond fishing in southern Iowa with temps rarely below -5(when I go). Decided on hub style for additional room and weight. Don't have a ATV or snowmobile to pull one around and don't want to drive on ice with truck. Anybody with experiences with either one of these shelters? Thanks.
The thermal adds minimal weight to the shelter, and will keep it a heck of a lot warmer, and will do a great job and cutting the wind down if it is blowing.
Get a decent sled to pull your stuff out with you, as you will need a pail or two anyway, and probably a heater.
Although the thermal would probably stay warm with just a lantern, or you might not even need a heater in there.
Personally, I would go thermal because it is a ton warmer in the thermal shacks without a ton of weight added.
scmelik
12-02-2010, 08:10 PM
What it will do is reduce a rain in your shelter.
yes it does. The reasoning behind the thermal was to so that you didn't have the canvas the same temp as outside, thusly when you turned on your heater you had a condensation build up. The thermal adds an extra layer there so that you don't get that rain effect.
Limit_Out
12-19-2010, 08:31 PM
My base camp thermal had it's first night out last night in central Indiana. It got down to 15 or so outside with maybe 5 mph wind. I only had a 2 mantel propane lantern and it kept it so so. It frosted up on the inside at first then thawed out. I would say you need a heater so sure. What I don't like, is that is difficult to set in the wind and it takes up a ton of space in the sled. I have a jetsled and in consumes it. I can put my auger on top then I have to have another sled to carry rods, lures, minnows, vex and such. Not sure I made the right choice over a bigger flip since I really have to have a 2nd person at all times. It weighs 44lbs.
doomanmxz99
12-23-2010, 02:22 PM
I have a summit and I just carry it on my back with the bag it came in and then I have tons of room in my sled.You do need a heater. I have a big buddy and it has keep me toasty down to -20 below. I had some trouble setting mine up in the wind by myself but I have since taken 1 of the ice anchors and put it in the snow cuff on the bottom before set up and leave till I have the house down and that makes it easy.I do love mine once you get a few of the new problems figured out.