Daniel Comerford, Lisa Karkut, and Farzam Mohajer
The practice of fishing has been an essential component in the evolution of humankind, providing the required nourishment and sustenance needed for survival throughout history. Fishing in colder climates eventually lead to the innovation of ice fishing ; a method of survival which has since evolved into the beloved sport and pastime that it is today.
Although ice fishing tactics, shelters, and equipment have evolved quite a bit throughout history, the basic goal has remained the same, and is still integral to the sport today. The need for shelter from the elements while ice fishing lead to the implementation of 'ice fishing huts' - small structures which provide a degree of shelter during the fishing process. Although the size and construction of these shelters vary quite a bit, they are all designed around the same basic criteria: that is, light-weight construction, ease of mobility, economical construction, durability, and of course, a very functional/efficient layout for the ice-fishing activities within. Traditionally, most ice fishing huts have been owner-constructed; typically made from wood-frame construction with plywood/aluminum cladding. Of course innovations in the market have lead to an array of commercially available ice fishing hut types, each bragging different qualities. Collapsible tent structures ( http://www.clamcorp.com/ ), trailer-huts ( http://www.teamicepro.com/ ), and motorized huts are examples of such market innovations. 
Regardless of form, the ice fishing shack is a symbolic entity which contains various 'thresholds' between the fisher and nature. An example of such a symbolic threshold are the walls themselves; as one enters the shack they are stepping into a dark, warm, sheltered separation from the natural world which is white and bright, wide open, and susceptible to the elements. Another example could be the fishing hole itself, which offers a window through the seemingly solid surface of the ice an
d provides a limited view into the watery world below.
Beyond the more utilitarian aspects of ice fishing, there is a whole world of social and cultural significance. On an ice-barren landscape, the fishing shack harbours a unique social interaction and warmth of life which deeply contrasts its greater context. Within these little huts, various activities such as talking and drinking often form a sense of comrodery and bonding that has become just as significant as the fishing itself. Within the cozy environment, the methodical process of fishing often allows one to enter a more contemplative state of mind, and perhaps gain a sense of increased spirituality. Furthermore,
the process of fishing and killing for ones own food deeply contrasts our typical way of modern life, and creates a connection with our more primitive past. Similar to any other sport, the element of competition is also quite prevalent in the ice fishing culture. Bragging rights are at stake, and traditions, local heroes and legends become an important folklore that ties everyone in the ice fishing community together. It is truly remarkable that such a utilitarian building like an ice fishing hut could yield such significant social/cultural/spiritual relationships and experiences, within what seems a 'purely functional' form.
d provides a limited view into the watery world below.Beyond the more utilitarian aspects of ice fishing, there is a whole world of social and cultural significance. On an ice-barren landscape, the fishing shack harbours a unique social interaction and warmth of life which deeply contrasts its greater context. Within these little huts, various activities such as talking and drinking often form a sense of comrodery and bonding that has become just as significant as the fishing itself. Within the cozy environment, the methodical process of fishing often allows one to enter a more contemplative state of mind, and perhaps gain a sense of increased spirituality. Furthermore,
the process of fishing and killing for ones own food deeply contrasts our typical way of modern life, and creates a connection with our more primitive past. Similar to any other sport, the element of competition is also quite prevalent in the ice fishing culture. Bragging rights are at stake, and traditions, local heroes and legends become an important folklore that ties everyone in the ice fishing community together. It is truly remarkable that such a utilitarian building like an ice fishing hut could yield such significant social/cultural/spiritual relationships and experiences, within what seems a 'purely functional' form.
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