I am trying to decide between the Otter XT 650 Cabin and the Jason Mitchell Thermal X. I have studied each of them up and down, but without actual ice experience with either, I can’t come to a solid conclusion. They seem to be a statistical draw. I understand that the 1200 Cabin prices the same as Jason Mitchell, but without all the accessories I don’t feel like it fits for me financially.
- 650 Pros:
- Sells for $550 at fleet farm
- Sled looks like a much easier pull
- Otter built – means really high quality
- 650 Cons:
- Only partial thermal
- Lacks accessories
- I’m 6-2, 6-4 with boots — Lower ceiling than JM
- Bench seat rather than bucket seats
- Thermal X Pros:
- 100% Thermal
- Comes fully loaded with accessories
- Quality seats
- Larger fishing area
- Thermal X Cons:
- Priced at $830
- Sled and weight look difficult
- Only 600 denier
If anyone has experience with each or critique of either model I would love to hear it. I understand that IDO fishes with the Ice Force brands, and generally speaking I like to follow their lead, but I’m not exclusive, Vexilar and Clam are good brands.
Need your help! Thanks!