Luxury shack puts new spin on ice fishing in Sask.

For some people in Saskatchewan, a winter weekend means ice fishing at one of the shacks dotting the province's frozen lakes.

But perhaps there are none so elaborate as a shack on Blackstrap Lake near Saskatoon.

Dave Whitehead and Dean Thiessen are members of a four-man team who have designed the ultimate hut. Thiessen says it's a great way to enjoy the outdoors while still remaining comfortable.

"If we want the elements, we step outside and drill a hole," Thiessen said. "And when we're inside, we get the fire going, friends sit down, we do a bit of ice fishing, play some cards."

Thiessen added that the combination allows the crew to focus on what's really important when the weather feels like -40 C outside.

"The main thing is it's about friends, coming out and getting away for a bit," he said. "It's nice and close to the city, everyone enjoys themselves and keeps coming back."

Whitehead explained that the design incorporates features such as wall finishes, a stove for heat and elk antlers.

"Elk antlers are a nice touch," said Whitehead. "They add some nice racking for rods and tuques and mitts and such."

There is also a television screen, which Whitehead said functions as an underwater fish camera.

"You can watch what's happening down below," he said. "It's an underwater fish camera. On some days you would be led to believe there are no fish in this lake, when in fact you can see them, they're just not biting."