Drying out your Otter portable between trips??

[FishDad]

 I’m wondering if there’s a problem with keeping your portable shanty in the back of your truck between fishing trips. I just put together my new Otter Lodge and had a thought…
When I spend a day fishing with my heater/cooker going, when its time to pack up, wont I be folding up a somewhat wet (with melted snow and condensation) canvas? I am hoping to keep my portable in the back of my locked-up F-150 w/cap (parked outside, beside my house) between outings.
Do I have to unfold the Otter in my garage after every trip to dry out? I’m afraid that if I don’t, I’ll risk the fate of having to unfold a frozen (and brittle) canvas accordion the next time I hit the ice.

Is this a concern? What do you guys do?

Thanks- FishDad

[Melbs7]

I guess just my personal opinion, if its only going to be a relatively short time.... i'd say a day er so, that u'd be fine. if it was going to be a month, i would consider airing it out. also, if it gets brought in the house (basement) between trips for long periods of time, definately open it up so as to help prevent mildew.


just my thoughts



Melbs              

[wisicefishinnut]

I have the exact same model, and I just take it out of the truck and set it in the garage.  I do this so no one steals it, but my garage is cold and I haven't had any trouble w/ the canvas cracking or breaking yet.

[WVBoy]

I would always recommend putting your shelter away dry no matter what type. A portable shanty is just like a tent and needs to be aired out for a longer life. If I plan on fishing for a whole weekend, I leave it in the truck then bring it in during the week and partially open it up to dry. If you do not, your shelter will soon melt and then freeze to itself and bad things will happen i.e. rips,and windows cracking. Then again, I like to treat my gear good cause alot of money goes into this stuff.

[twodoggs]

I also have the otter.  I do not dry mine out till I put it away for the season.  Mold and rot are not a major problem in freezing environments.  For the most part when I go out in the day light it dries out and I have never had a problem setting mine up.  The fabric is treated so it doesn't really get wet.  (like blue jeans would)  hope this helps