Shappell 6500 Wiee House or something else? Opinions please

Been looking for a portable ice house both pop up and flip styles and after a lot of thought I think a pop up might be my best option. In particular I like the Shappell 6500 its very roomy interior dimensions 90″ X 90″ and 70″ tall they claim its big enough for 4 seeing it just me & my brother it should allow us plenty of room. Prices I’ve seen the price range from 220.00 to 265.00 both in stores & online. I’d like to hear opinions on what the community here thinks of the Wide House good & bad or any other shelter that fishes 3 or 4 people. And as long as were at it, should I buy now in mid season or wait till they go on clearance in late Feb. or early March? Thanks!!

I’ve had my 5500 (the size smaller) for going on 8 seasons and other than the bag sunfading because I left it on my porch all summer once, the hub itself is still in like new condition. Literally nothing is wrong with it. Great hub in my experience.

You and your brother will have plenty of room in a 6500. My 5500 is a pretty decent 2 man. Awesome 1 man. I’m 6’ tall and 240 pounds. Windows are at a good height to see tipups and have been durable. Zippers are nice and tough.

For what it’s worth, I bought mine before Shappell was sold to Eagle Claw so I can’t attest to current quality out on the ice but from what I’ve sat in in the store, it seems to be the same quality. I don’t think you’d be disappointed in the 6500.

I say get it now so you can use it now.

I have a 6500 and love it for what it is. Zero issues in the 3 years I’ve owned it. I spear out of it with more than enough room. I’ve fished 3 people for Sturgeon a couple times and it has plenty of room. Mine is not insulated.

This is the third season with my 6500 , no issues , like it a lot . 2 people you will have plenty of room . Fished 3 out of it last weekend , that’s about as far as I’d go . 4 can be done but might get a little crowded . Recently broke a pole due to user error , called them and had a replacement within a week .