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Boundary Waters Quetico Forum :: Gear Forum :: Screen Tents
 
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phisherman
06/16/2014 04:37PM
 
Just picked this up w/a 25% off additional coupon...$62 bugamid screen shelter
 
mr.barley
06/17/2014 01:09PM
 
quote Savage Voyageur: "quote mr.barley: "wow...20 lbs?"




This is not for everyone, that is for sure. I did not want to take it because of the size/weight. If you move every day no way. We took it for base camping as a cooking area for 8 guys. It worked very well for this type of camping. Last week the bugs and flies were very bad and it also rained. With the rain gutters on this thing they diverted the rain away, so we stayed dry and bug free. Yes it is 20 lbs but we only paddled about 5 miles and set up camp, so the 20 lbs is nothing at that point. Then we did day trips from there. I am glad we took it thinking back."
With 8 guys 20# isn't that bad. There's always a place to put it with that many guys.
 
Saberboys
06/17/2014 04:59PM
 
quote Savage Voyageur: "quote Saberboys: "quote Savage Voyageur: "My friend Pikehunter had a Gander Mtn screen tent this year and I really liked it. It has two sides with zipper doors that tie off when not needed. But the feature I really liked was the rain gutters made out of fabric at the top of the tent. This allows the rain to flow down to the sides and the screen stays mostly dry. It worked great in the 4 rain storms we had. Don't buy one until you look at this one. It is a little heavy but we base camp and it is not an issue. "




Hey Savage, could you shoot me the name or possibly post a link of the one that you used? I peeked at Gander and couldn't decipher which one it may be.




Thanks!"




Here it is... Screen tent "



Thank you Savage!
 
jberns
06/18/2014 10:10PM
 
quote TallMatt: " BassProShops Bug Enclosure - 10x10 or 12x12 (around $60)



I've thought about picking one of these up and sewing some loops at strategic corners for easy suspension in camp. Result would be a ghetto screenhouse without the weight and bulk of poles etc. I think the reason I never bought one is the manufacturer says it is 8 lbs when stowed away and 14x13x5 (a second tent).


I'll keep dreaming about a CCS or Nemo tarp. Until then, we'll continue to be tortured while making dinner, eat in the tent, and unceremoniously throw our dishes out the tent door for cleaning in the morning. Those mosquitoes can be BAD ... even with full body coverage, a headnet, 100% deet spray, Ultrathon deet lotion, and those little battery powered OFF! fan repellent things."



Bought the 10x10 & weighed it at about 4#. It does not pack real small. Works great & sets up quickly & easily by tying it to trees.
 
Saberboys
06/16/2014 12:17PM
 
quote Savage Voyageur: "My friend Pikehunter had a Gander Mtn screen tent this year and I really liked it. It has two sides with zipper doors that tie off when not needed. But the feature I really liked was the rain gutters made out of fabric at the top of the tent. This allows the rain to flow down to the sides and the screen stays mostly dry. It worked great in the 4 rain storms we had. Don't buy one until you look at this one. It is a little heavy but we base camp and it is not an issue. "


Hey Savage, could you shoot me the name or possibly post a link of the one that you used? I peeked at Gander and couldn't decipher which one it may be.


Thanks!
 
Savage Voyageur
06/16/2014 02:22PM
 
quote Saberboys: "quote Savage Voyageur: "My friend Pikehunter had a Gander Mtn screen tent this year and I really liked it. It has two sides with zipper doors that tie off when not needed. But the feature I really liked was the rain gutters made out of fabric at the top of the tent. This allows the rain to flow down to the sides and the screen stays mostly dry. It worked great in the 4 rain storms we had. Don't buy one until you look at this one. It is a little heavy but we base camp and it is not an issue. "



Hey Savage, could you shoot me the name or possibly post a link of the one that you used? I peeked at Gander and couldn't decipher which one it may be.



Thanks!"



Here it is... Screen tent
 
mr.barley
06/16/2014 03:34PM
 
wow...20 lbs?
 
amhacker22
06/16/2014 03:41PM
 
quote mr.barley: "wow...20 lbs?"


That seems heavy to me too, but if I was basecamping I'd take it in a second. I'd still long for, and probably eventually justify/buy, the CCS version though.
 
onepaddlejunkie
06/16/2014 07:55PM
 
Dang it pisherman, I wasn't going to buy anything today. Now look at what you've done. Now I own one of those bugamid screen shelters! Thanks for the heads up on that discount. That really was a heck of a deal.
 
TallMatt
06/16/2014 07:58PM
 
When considering weight, what do you guys think about the performance of no-see-um mesh vs. mosquito netting in the BWCA? The denser no-see-um has a much higher weight and pack size compared to plain mosquito netting.
 
Savage Voyageur
06/16/2014 06:51PM
 
quote mr.barley: "wow...20 lbs?"



This is not for everyone, that is for sure. I did not want to take it because of the size/weight. If you move every day no way. We took it for base camping as a cooking area for 8 guys. It worked very well for this type of camping. Last week the bugs and flies were very bad and it also rained. With the rain gutters on this thing they diverted the rain away, so we stayed dry and bug free. Yes it is 20 lbs but we only paddled about 5 miles and set up camp, so the 20 lbs is nothing at that point. Then we did day trips from there. I am glad we took it thinking back.
 
Squid
07/17/2014 02:54PM
 
No pictures, I'm afraid. Looking at PineKnot's photo, our setup was almost identical to what you see there, except that our box was 7x5.5 feet, and not 10x10.


Very cozy with four guys, but we very seldom had all four guys in there at the same time. And the one night when things were really horrible, we weren't going to complain at all about elbow room since it meant we could eat our chili without needing to slurp it through a headnet!
 
Frenchy19
07/04/2014 01:07PM
 
quote OldFingers57: "quote tashit: "I got the double last week off ebay for $22.49 shipped. I haven't pulled it out yet but I'm going to sort of try it out this weekend. We are camping at Whitewater State Park and I'm bringing it along just to set it up and see how I like it, even though there aren't any bugs to truly test it out. I'm going to set it up under my EZ-up."



When you take it to the BWCA how are you going to set it up? Under a tarp like others have or just by itself? Let me know how it works out for you. "



Mine has arrived, and I will set it up under a tarp.
 
Frenchy19
07/03/2014 11:05PM
 
quote tashit: "I got the double last week off ebay for $22.49 shipped. I haven't pulled it out yet but I'm going to sort of try it out this weekend. We are camping at Whitewater State Park and I'm bringing it along just to set it up and see how I like it, even though there aren't any bugs to truly test it out. I'm going to set it up under my EZ-up."


I love Whitewater park; no bugs, great fishing!
 
OldFingers57
07/04/2014 10:43AM
 
quote tashit: "I got the double last week off ebay for $22.49 shipped. I haven't pulled it out yet but I'm going to sort of try it out this weekend. We are camping at Whitewater State Park and I'm bringing it along just to set it up and see how I like it, even though there aren't any bugs to truly test it out. I'm going to set it up under my EZ-up."


When you take it to the BWCA how are you going to set it up? Under a tarp like others have or just by itself? Let me know how it works out for you.
 
lundojam
07/15/2014 10:12AM
 
We bought a Eureka something something and leave the poles at home. Bring lots of cord to hang and it's not a problem to set up; in fact I enjoy figuring it out. Tip: give it a quick blast of Raid fogger after you set it up.
 
Squid
07/15/2014 11:33AM
 
Given the elevated threat of bugs* this season, I splurged on one of the Sea to Summit double box nets referenced above. We set it up under our tarp, and didn't regret it for a single minute.
We were fortunate to have a steady breeze for several days, but on those evenings when the wind died that the skeeters came out in force, it was absolutely magical.
(I felt kind of ashamed, truth to tell, because eating dinner and watching the sun set over the lake from the bug-free comfort of our little screen house felt a little too much like sitting in my dad's screen porch back in civilization. I mean, isn't the B-Dub supposed to be all about the suffering?)
* Speaking of which -- does anyone know if there are still bugs in the forest?
 
LuvMyBell
06/26/2014 10:48PM
 
quote TallMatt: "quote Teenda: "quote TallMatt: " BassProShops Bug Enclosure - 10x10 or 12x12 (around $60)





I've thought about picking one of these up and sewing some loops at strategic corners for easy suspension in camp. Result would be a ghetto screenhouse without the weight and bulk of poles etc. I think the reason I never bought one is the manufacturer says it is 8 lbs when stowed away and 14x13x5 (a second tent).




I'll keep dreaming about a CCS or Nemo tarp. Until then, we'll continue to be tortured while making dinner, eat in the tent, and unceremoniously throw our dishes out the tent door for cleaning in the morning. Those mosquitoes can be BAD ... even with full body coverage, a headnet, 100% deet spray, Ultrathon deet lotion, and those little battery powered OFF! fan repellent things."





Thinking about taking a "ghetto" screen myself. I have been looking for an inexpensive option so I don't have to sit in the tent every evening while hubby enjoys the campfire! I get swarms of mosquitoes around me and tons of bites while my husband can be 8 ft away and not have a single insect bothering him! "




The 10x10 weighs in at 7 lbs on my bathroom scale in a large size granite gear stuff sack. It is larger than expected but still smaller than my Kelty Gunnison 3.1 tent. I am excited to test it out for the 4th."



Since this will be your 1st setup.......


If you are bringing corner poles and a center pole.....ignore the following......


Your biggest issue without poles will be finding 4 trees to tie the corners off in a square shape.


It's also nice if you can setup underneath a tall tree limb so you can tie off the center of the top. Otherwise you will need to rig some sort of center pole or the top WILL droop down into the interior of the screen enclosure. This is a bit tricky if you set it up under a tarp for protection from the rain.


It's a bit of a hassel, but IMO well worth it to keep the bugs at bay for a reasonable price point.

If I lived closer to the BWCA and was able to trip 5 or more times a year, I wouldn't hesitate to spend the money of the NEMO and might even splurge $600 - $800 on the quality CCS model.

For use 1 and sometimes 2 trips a year, this $70 model works perfectly for me.
 
Moonman
07/15/2014 10:28AM
 
quote lundojam: "We bought a Eureka something something and leave the poles at home. Bring lots of cord to hang and it's not a problem to set up; in fact I enjoy figuring it out. Tip: give it a quick blast of Raid fogger after you set it up. "


I do the exact same thing. I have two screen rooms from older screen houses that I use without poles. One is 8x10, the other 12x18. Very sweet and really nice and light without the poles. Just bring lots of lightweight rope as you mentioned. Guys think it will be a real bother or will not work without the poles but then are all crowding in there and loving it when the evening mossies descend. If you know a selection of knots for tightening (taut line hitch is awesome), you can customize to the site and get a perfect pitch.


Moonman.
 
Canoe42
08/11/2014 11:11PM
 
Entered Mudro July 23. Would have exited July 24 if we had not brought the screen room from Bass Pro. What a life saver. Light weight and set up easily under a tarp. Made life very nice first 3 days when mosquitoes were unreal. Great place to hang out during rain also.
 
LuvMyBell
06/26/2014 12:22PM
 
The Bass Pro screen tent actually does have tie out loops, 3 or 4 down each side. They are velcro for attaching to the legs of the EZ Up shelter. The roof has several velcro loops as well. It also has a solid 12" sod cloth around the bottom.


I have the 12' x 12' model but our group size is always 8 or 9. It really has come in handy the last couple years. We can cook, eat, talk and play cards while in camp without worrying about bugs - all for the low price of $70. I just couldn't justify $250 for the Nemo or $550 - $850 for the 15' x 15' CCS when this alternative is available.


Time will tell about the quality and how long it will last.
 
Frenchy19
07/16/2014 09:38AM
 
quote Squid: "Given the elevated threat of bugs* this season, I splurged on one of the Sea to Summit double box nets referenced above. We set it up under our tarp, and didn't regret it for a single minute.
We were fortunate to have a steady breeze for several days, but on those evenings when the wind died that the skeeters came out in force, it was absolutely magical.
(I felt kind of ashamed, truth to tell, because eating dinner and watching the sun set over the lake from the bug-free comfort of our little screen house felt a little too much like sitting in my dad's screen porch back in civilization. I mean, isn't the B-Dub supposed to be all about the suffering?)
* Speaking of which -- does anyone know if there are still bugs in the forest?"



Glad to hear the screen worked for you! I will be using mine for the first time on an upcoming trip with one of my daughters, and I always look forward to playing around with new gear? Got any pics? (And I would be willing to bet there are still bugs in the forest;-)
 
Canoe42
06/21/2014 11:22PM
 
quote MagicStik: "No problem....i just paid the $84 for it. :)



Magic"

Was that for tarp and netting?
 
Frenchy19
06/22/2014 10:10AM
 
I have never been too bothered by mosquitos, but I just got back from a short 5 day trip, and I have never, ever experienced mosquitos like this! They were in the thunder box waiting for a meal and managed to get inside my head net. I am not big on DEET, and for the first time ever I have serious thoughts about a screen tent. The CCS, as is true of all of Dan's products, looks stunning, but the price is too steep for me. The Nemo 12 x 12 is priced right and only weighs 3 oz. more than the 15 x 15 CCS.
 
05/31/2018 03:03PM
 

 
Doughboy12
07/08/2014 04:32PM
 
I can't believe someone hasn't recommended just going to the "Q"...
Everyone knows there are NO bugs up there, the fishing is better, no Jack Wagons to deal with, no camping restrictions, and on and on...it's nirvana man.
(Too soon?)
 
Frenchy19
06/30/2014 01:43PM
 
Has anyone tried the Sea to Summit Box Net Shelter? Nice price ($60 on Amazon with the Permathrin treatment, %50 without the Perathrin) and lightweight, although pretty small. Sea to Summit Box Shelter
 
OldFingers57
06/30/2014 03:08PM
 
quote Frenchy19: "Has anyone tried the Sea to Summit Box Net Shelter? Nice price ($60 on Amazon with the Permathrin treatment, %50 without the Perathrin) and lightweight, although pretty small. Sea to Summit Box Shelter "


This item was mentioned over on another post about mosquitos. Someone had it and loved it. They had it attached under their tarp. They had these Sea to Summit dbl nets over on ebay for around $22-29.00
 
Frenchy19
06/30/2014 03:15PM
 
quote OldFingers57: "quote Frenchy19: "Has anyone tried the Sea to Summit Box Net Shelter? Nice price ($60 on Amazon with the Permathrin treatment, %50 without the Perathrin) and lightweight, although pretty small. Sea to Summit Box Shelter "



This item was mentioned over on another post about mosquitos. Someone had it and loved it. They had it attached under their tarp. They had these Sea to Summit dbl nets over on ebay for around $22-29.00"



Thanks, OF57!
 
MagicStik
06/13/2014 08:35AM
 
After our buggy trip last year and all the bug talk this year I am considering the purchase of some sort of screen tent. I don't care if I have to tripple portage...I don't want to go through that buggy experience ever again.

What are some of the screen tent options out there?

Magic
 
TallMatt
06/13/2014 09:23AM
 
BassProShops Bug Enclosure - 10x10 or 12x12 (around $60)


I've thought about picking one of these up and sewing some loops at strategic corners for easy suspension in camp. Result would be a ghetto screenhouse without the weight and bulk of poles etc. I think the reason I never bought one is the manufacturer says it is 8 lbs when stowed away and 14x13x5 (a second tent).

I'll keep dreaming about a CCS or Nemo tarp. Until then, we'll continue to be tortured while making dinner, eat in the tent, and unceremoniously throw our dishes out the tent door for cleaning in the morning. Those mosquitoes can be BAD ... even with full body coverage, a headnet, 100% deet spray, Ultrathon deet lotion, and those little battery powered OFF! fan repellent things.
 
Ragged
06/13/2014 08:55AM
 
quote MagicStik: "After our buggy trip last year and all the bug talk this year I am considering the purchase of some sort of screen tent. I don't care if I have to tripple portage...I don't want to go through that buggy experience ever again.


What are some of the screen tent options out there?


Magic"



CCS if you want the best and have the money for it, much better tarp top, otherwise Nemo makes a couple. I have their really small/light one, a 7X7 Elite and also their biggest offering, the 12 X 12. Had the big guy set up last week and it sure was nice to be able to cool off shirtless after cutting/splitting a bunch of wood (it was warm). It was also nice to eat/cook in peace and fillet fish without having to swat skeeters off with nasty fish hands. We had a bigger group so its large size wasn't a real Burdon, don't think id bring the big/heavy one in with 2 or 3 people, id opt for a smaller less bulky one.
 
wingnut
06/13/2014 03:14PM
 
I plan to use my eureka screen house without the poles. The cast aluminum center piece that the poles plug into on the screen room fits perfectly in the quad loops that are sewn into my CCS tarp. I think I'll be able to string the tarp up with the center of screen room hooked into the quad loop and tie off the corners to the tarp lines. Should be able to tie the screen room up and out of the way when It's not needed.


The 10x10 screen room weighs almost 10 pounds without the poles.
 
TallMatt
06/13/2014 07:48PM
 
quote wingnut: " I plan to use my eureka screen house without the poles. The cast aluminum center piece that the poles plug into on the screen room fits perfectly in the quad loops that are sewn into my CCS tarp. I think I'll be able to string the tarp up with the center of screen room hooked into the quad loop and tie off the corners to the tarp lines. Should be able to tie the screen room up and out of the way when It's not needed.



The 10x10 screen room weighs almost 10 pounds without the poles."



Thanks for sharing the weight on a similar item. Almost enough to make me pick up the bassproshops one, since they mailed me a $10 off coupon recently.


The main drawback to no-see-um mesh is that it's heavy.
 
dblwhiskey
06/13/2014 10:44PM
 
If you don't want the cost of buying a CCS screen tarp, I know Piragis used to rent them for a fairly reasonable price. You might even check to see if they still have any used ones for sale.
 
OldFingers57
06/13/2014 08:51AM
 
I've got 2 differnet ones. One is a Nemo Bug Out Shelter 12 x 12 ft. Basically a tarp with a screen netting sewn on to it. Has two doorways for access. Nemo has a smaller one that is 9 x 9 ft. I like my Nemo it works great for me and my wife. No problems with it so far after 1 yr use. Easy set up in my opinion. Advantage is you can have the screen sides up or down. CCS makes one like this also, just more expensive.
the other shelter I have is a Eureka shelter house the type that takes aluminum fram poles. However I don't have the poles for it so I string it up like a tarp. One door access. Kinda a pain in the ass set up as it's not really designed to be used without the poles/frame.
 
Savage Voyageur
06/13/2014 10:13AM
 
My friend Pikehunter had a Gander Mtn screen tent this year and I really liked it. It has two sides with zipper doors that tie off when not needed. But the feature I really liked was the rain gutters made out of fabric at the top of the tent. This allows the rain to flow down to the sides and the screen stays mostly dry. It worked great in the 4 rain storms we had. Don't buy one until you look at this one. It is a little heavy but we base camp and it is not an issue.
 
3Ball
06/14/2014 08:17AM
 
My plan, for what its worth, is to use the Lean3 plus. I got the larger one in part for that reason. It can be a tarp or tent or screen house depending on your needs.
 
LuvMyBell
06/14/2014 06:53PM
 
quote dblwhiskey: "If you don't want the cost of buying a CCS screen tarp, I know Piragis used to rent them for a fairly reasonable price. You might even check to see if they still have any used ones for sale."


Piragis' website shows they rent and sell the 12' x12' and 9' x 9' NEMO Bugout Bug Tarp. They have already sold out on all their 2013 used stock.


No mention of the CCS screen tarps on their website. However they still have used CCS ultralight 15x15 tarps for sale for $325. New price is $450.
 
dblwhiskey
06/14/2014 11:39PM
 
quote LuvMyBell: "quote dblwhiskey: "If you don't want the cost of buying a CCS screen tarp, I know Piragis used to rent them for a fairly reasonable price. You might even check to see if they still have any used ones for sale."



Piragis' website shows they rent and sell the 12' x12' and 9' x 9' NEMO Bugout Bug Tarp. They have already sold out on all their 2013 used stock.



No mention of the CCS screen tarps on their website. However they still have used CCS ultralight 15x15 tarps for sale for $325. New price is $450."



I would make a call up there, they don't always have all of their used gear listed on the website. I have also found that what they list on the website doesn't always match what you rent. I think they list their sleeping pads as Big Anges but I have rented the Nemo from them or they list the the Crazy Creek Chair but yet they also rent the Helinox. I did a quick look at their website and it shows a 9x9 and a 15x15 bug tarp with screen walls. I think the 15x15 is a CCS. Like I said I usually call to verify the details.
 
walllee
06/14/2014 08:56PM
 
Nemo 12 x 12 here, will never go without it
 
redoleary
06/17/2014 07:17PM
 
There's the Eureka VCS 16 which looks promising. I don't have one but have seen some youtubes and it looks pretty sweet. Seems to only be avail in Canada but I'm guessing this TentCity place ships to the States since US$ is an option on their website. HERE'S THE LINK
 
TwoByGreenCanoe
06/17/2014 07:20PM
 
Cabela's has a 15x15 24# one on sale for $100. Family gazebo
 
MagicStik
06/18/2014 09:47AM
 
Thanks for all the info so far...some good options out there!


MagicStik
 
MagicStik
06/18/2014 09:54AM
 
quote phisherman: "Just picked this up w/a 25% off additional coupon...$62 bugamid screen shelter "


May I ask where you got the 25% off coupon? I don't see one on the site.


Thanks,


Magic
 
onepaddlejunkie
06/18/2014 10:20AM
 
I think the 25% was a 48 hour deal.
 
thistlekicker
06/19/2014 10:43AM
 
quote Savage Voyageur: "quote Saberboys: "quote Savage Voyageur: "My friend Pikehunter had a Gander Mtn screen tent this year and I really liked it. It has two sides with zipper doors that tie off when not needed. But the feature I really liked was the rain gutters made out of fabric at the top of the tent. This allows the rain to flow down to the sides and the screen stays mostly dry. It worked great in the 4 rain storms we had. Don't buy one until you look at this one. It is a little heavy but we base camp and it is not an issue. "




Hey Savage, could you shoot me the name or possibly post a link of the one that you used? I peeked at Gander and couldn't decipher which one it may be.




Thanks!"




Here it is... Screen tent "



We have the same screen tent and one of the 3/8" fiberglass roof poles just snapped in a moderate wind. I'm debating if and how to replace it (fiberglass, aluminum, or an entirely new structure).


If I was looking for a new screen house, I'd definitely look for something with aluminum poles.
 
phisherman
06/19/2014 11:34AM
 
quote phisherman: "Just picked this up w/a 25% off additional coupon...$62 bugamid screen shelter "




May I ask where you got the 25% off coupon? I don't see one on the site.



Thanks,



Magic



Sorry Magic, one paddle is correct...it was only a 48 hour coupon...I forgot to include that vital piece of info...if I see any similar deals I will post them.


Phish
 
MagicStik
06/19/2014 12:05PM
 
No problem....i just paid the $84 for it. :)


Magic
 
GSP
06/22/2014 12:50PM
 
VCS screens are meant for sitting under at the most, low to ground and net is separate from tarp usually. I have had one for years and barely gets used anymore.

 
buz
06/24/2014 10:16AM
 
I use a coghlans one pictured. It is very light and compact, good for three people, if you have two, you can rig them together for a much bigger area. I love it, when needed. Comes every trip, hope to not use it. Simple set up under a fly or by itself.



 
BnD
06/25/2014 09:35AM
 
quote 2old4U: "If I had to sit in a screen tent all day because the bugs were so bad I'd stay home and go when the bugs died off. How you gonna have any fun or catch any fish if you are lugging a big screen tent and cooped up in there all day?!?! Don't make sense to me.." I was kinda thinking the same thing. However, I agree they can be unbelievable but, even then I think I would just move to another campsite with a more lake exposure and breeze.
 
2old4U
06/25/2014 08:11AM
 
If I had to sit in a screen tent all day because the bugs were so bad I'd stay home and go when the bugs died off. How you gonna have any fun or catch any fish if you are lugging a big screen tent and cooped up in there all day?!?! Don't make sense to me..
 
LuvMyBell
06/26/2014 10:59AM
 
quote TallMatt: "When considering weight, what do you guys think about the performance of no-see-um mesh vs. mosquito netting in the BWCA? The denser no-see-um has a much higher weight and pack size compared to plain mosquito netting."


Both will keep the bugs at bay......Once you've made the decision that you need a screen enclosure for your BWCA trips, it really boils down to cost.


The lighter versions like CCS weigh what, 4 lbs. The heavier no-see-um like the Bass Pro enclosure weigh in at 8 lbs. In the big scheme of things do you really notice a 4 lb difference in your pack? And even if you do, it is worth the cost difference? You make the call.


I will say that the Bass Pro screen enclosure is made to accompany the EZ Up type canopies and does not have a tarp roof. So, you'll also need to set it up under a tarp if you plan to use it in the rain.


I went through the trouble of modifying mine last year to remove the no-see-um mesh roof and replaced it with a 12' x 12' sil nylon tarp that I had sewn in it's place. It's still heavier than the CCS, but I get all the functionality for 1/8th the cost.



 
TallMatt
06/26/2014 09:55AM
 
quote 2old4U: "If I had to sit in a screen tent all day because the bugs were so bad I'd stay home and go when the bugs died off. How you gonna have any fun or catch any fish if you are lugging a big screen tent and cooped up in there all day?!?! Don't make sense to me.."


The screen enclosure is just to have a comfortable place to eat lunch or dinner in (or maybe hang out if the weather is crappy). In my experience the skeeters really start ramping up at night time, and aren't too bad during the morning or afternoon. If you're out on a canoe they're not too bad regardless, so you can travel and fish all you want. BUT... try and sit still at camp at 8 or 9 pm to cook dinner after being out all day ... you will be eaten alive.


Plus, can't always predict how the bugs are going to be when you trip. The nice thing about canoe camping is a few extra lbs in your pack doesn't really matter too much. If you end up not needing to set it up, great. If the bugs are bad enough to make you consider cutting your trip short ... that's when a bug shelter would shine.


I ordered the BassProShop enclosure after someone here cited it as being 4 lbs. Comes in the mail today. Will be testing it out up north over the weekend of the 4th.
 
TallMatt
06/26/2014 11:36AM
 
quote LuvMyBell:


I will say that the Bass Pro screen enclosure is made to accompany the EZ Up type canopies and does not have a tarp roof. So, you'll also need to set it up under a tarp if you plan to use it in the rain.


I went through the trouble of modifying mine last year to remove the no-see-um mesh roof and replaced it with a 12' x 12' sil nylon tarp that I had sewn in it's place. It's still heavier than the CCS, but I get all the functionality for 1/6th the cost.
"



Thanks. I honestly had been waffling on which bug enclosure to buy for >1 yr. I am in my mid-20s and found that I am replacing most of my cheap gear that I bought as an undergraduate student with higher performance / smaller / lighter stuff. My new philosophy is buy it right the first time instead of dealing with the headaches of crappy gear or the extra cost of eventually upgrading.


I considered the bugamid that was linked earlier, but I didn't like the sloped edges - I want something we can cook in, and it seems like the bugamid (although a solid product - lightweight, easy to suspend, etc.) is more for sleeping. Hard to get folks to sit underneath it with the sloping edges, and if you are touching the wall, mosquitoes can still bite through it. Also considered the Nemo and CCS systems, but like you mentioned, there is a premium price to pay if you purchase one of those.


I have a few silnylon tarps from Sportsman Guide (which they no longer carry -- the ones I bought were ~$30 apiece, their new product line is about $80 for the smallest tarp). When my BassProShops enclosure gets in today I'll have to see about sewing on loops for suspension / see how I can rig it up with my tarps. I think it would actually be advantageous to have a modular screen/tarp system. No bugs? Set up the tarp. No chance of rain and moving on from camp the next day? Set up just the screen.


For the 4th I'll be sleeping on a cot outside with the bug net up and a tarp over the top as a shelter (I got a huge cot from Cabelas which I don't want to put in my tent; it's heavy and I don't want the feet to damage my nice camping tent).


I went with the smaller 10x10 since I figure that will be plenty of space for 4 folks. Think I might dunk it in a bucket of permethrin solution, too. Tendency (at least where I'm going for the 4th) for daddy long legs and other creepy crawlies to go underneath stuff and sneak into gear.


If I come up with a nice system I will take some photos and post them on here as inspiration for you other folks.
 
Teenda
06/26/2014 06:10PM
 
quote TallMatt: " BassProShops Bug Enclosure - 10x10 or 12x12 (around $60)



I've thought about picking one of these up and sewing some loops at strategic corners for easy suspension in camp. Result would be a ghetto screenhouse without the weight and bulk of poles etc. I think the reason I never bought one is the manufacturer says it is 8 lbs when stowed away and 14x13x5 (a second tent).


I'll keep dreaming about a CCS or Nemo tarp. Until then, we'll continue to be tortured while making dinner, eat in the tent, and unceremoniously throw our dishes out the tent door for cleaning in the morning. Those mosquitoes can be BAD ... even with full body coverage, a headnet, 100% deet spray, Ultrathon deet lotion, and those little battery powered OFF! fan repellent things."



Thinking about taking a "ghetto" screen myself. I have been looking for an inexpensive option so I don't have to sit in the tent every evening while hubby enjoys the campfire! I get swarms of mosquitoes around me and tons of bites while my husband can be 8 ft away and not have a single insect bothering him!
 
TallMatt
06/26/2014 09:33PM
 
quote Teenda: "quote TallMatt: " BassProShops Bug Enclosure - 10x10 or 12x12 (around $60)




I've thought about picking one of these up and sewing some loops at strategic corners for easy suspension in camp. Result would be a ghetto screenhouse without the weight and bulk of poles etc. I think the reason I never bought one is the manufacturer says it is 8 lbs when stowed away and 14x13x5 (a second tent).



I'll keep dreaming about a CCS or Nemo tarp. Until then, we'll continue to be tortured while making dinner, eat in the tent, and unceremoniously throw our dishes out the tent door for cleaning in the morning. Those mosquitoes can be BAD ... even with full body coverage, a headnet, 100% deet spray, Ultrathon deet lotion, and those little battery powered OFF! fan repellent things."




Thinking about taking a "ghetto" screen myself. I have been looking for an inexpensive option so I don't have to sit in the tent every evening while hubby enjoys the campfire! I get swarms of mosquitoes around me and tons of bites while my husband can be 8 ft away and not have a single insect bothering him! "



The 10x10 weighs in at 7 lbs on my bathroom scale in a large size granite gear stuff sack. It is larger than expected but still smaller than my Kelty Gunnison 3.1 tent. I am excited to test it out for the 4th.
 
lindylair
06/29/2014 08:04AM
 
For those of you who may be unaware, Sierra Trading is a great place to shop for gear, clothing, etc. Selection/sizing is sometimes hit or miss but if they have what you want they seem to be the best prices anywhere. I, for example, will never buy outdoor merino wool socks anywhere else (Smartwool at a great discount). If you sign up and place an order you will get frequent e-mails with discounts on merchandise between 25% and 45%. For this screen tent debate for example:


Abo screen house


Don't know much about this brand but with the current 35% discount off their already very good "regular" prices it can be had for $61.72.



Kelty Screen House



For you basecampers who really want luxury, this Kelty might work. Not as much screen material which may be a negative to some. And heavy but with the discount it is $149.97.



I have never brought a screen tent but I would consider it for a basecamp type trip. Anyways the site is great, similar discounted prices on all kinds of products.
 
Frenchy19
06/30/2014 04:54PM
 
I just bought the Sea to Summit double on Amazon ($50 with 2 day shipping). Will give my impressions after it arrives and I get a chance to fart around with it.
 
Frenchy19
07/01/2014 02:04PM
 
quote drglock: "quote Frenchy19: "I just bought the Sea to Summit double on Amazon ($50 with 2 day shipping). Will give my impressions after it arrives and I get a chance to fart around with it."



Dont forget! I am considering buying the same one and would love to hear your feedback on it."



Will do. For a solo or two people, it looks like a good deal, especially if set up under a tarp. Should have it tomorrow.
 
tashit
07/02/2014 12:44PM
 
I got the double last week off ebay for $22.49 shipped. I haven't pulled it out yet but I'm going to sort of try it out this weekend. We are camping at Whitewater State Park and I'm bringing it along just to set it up and see how I like it, even though there aren't any bugs to truly test it out. I'm going to set it up under my EZ-up.
 
drglock
07/01/2014 12:34PM
 
quote Frenchy19: "I just bought the Sea to Summit double on Amazon ($50 with 2 day shipping). Will give my impressions after it arrives and I get a chance to fart around with it."


Dont forget! I am considering buying the same one and would love to hear your feedback on it.
 
tashit
07/07/2014 12:54PM
 
quote Frenchy19: "
I love Whitewater park; no bugs, great fishing! "



I spoke too soon. There were very few mosquitos, but the gnats were terrible! I am SO glad I brought that screen with. My parents were at another site and went and bought a screen tent they were so bad. I'm guessing it had to do with all of the recent rain?


I am happy with the screen though. It isn't huge but at one point we had 5 adults in chairs, a baby, and a 75 pound lab. It was cozy but not too bad. I will try to post a pic when I'm at home.


quote OldFingers57: "
When you take it to the BWCA how are you going to set it up? Under a tarp like others have or just by itself? Let me know how it works out for you."



I plan on setting it up under a tarp.
 
MagicStik
07/08/2014 03:41PM
 
quote Canoe42: "quote MagicStik: "No problem....i just paid the $84 for it. :)




Magic"

Was that for tarp and netting?"



Sorry...just catching up on the post again...that was just for the netting.


Someone else mentioned the slope...there are tie out points on the netting also. Out of the box it looks good but not tested yet.


Magic
 
tashit
07/09/2014 12:51PM
 
I think after this picture we still fit another chair in the far left corner...



 
Doughboy12
07/09/2014 01:29PM
 
quote BnD: "quote Doughboy12: "I can't believe someone hasn't recommended just going to the "Q"...
Everyone knows there are NO bugs up there, the fishing is better, no Jack Wagons to deal with, no camping restrictions, and on and on...it's nirvana man.
(Too soon?)"
Why such a hater? Life is short move on."

Just pokin' the bear...its what I do.
 
BnD
07/09/2014 01:10PM
 
quote Doughboy12: "I can't believe someone hasn't recommended just going to the "Q"...
Everyone knows there are NO bugs up there, the fishing is better, no Jack Wagons to deal with, no camping restrictions, and on and on...it's nirvana man.
(Too soon?)"
Why such a hater? Life is short move on.
 
OldFingers57
07/09/2014 02:28PM
 
quote tashit: "I think after this picture we still fit another chair in the far left corner...



"



Well it looks like it worked out pretty well for you.
 
Jonas333
07/09/2014 03:29PM
 
We are headed into the Q (Pickerel lake) on 7/19, most people Ive talked to say the bugs are the worst this year than ever. I picked this up at Academy for $29 (had a $10 off coupon). I set it up and although its a bit flimsy it should more than enough do the job...will have to secure it pretty well obviously. This should work well as long as you have enough room to set it up, its 10x10 and only weighs about 8lbs, a bit more than others, less than most but well worth bringing in especially if you arent moving much ;)


http://www.academy.com/shop/pdp/timber-creek-10-x-10-screen-house/pid-532853
 
PineKnot
07/10/2014 03:32AM
 
Here's a photo of our screen tent we used in Quetico last week. It's the 10'X10' version from BassProShops. We used Nite-Ize Figure 9 biners to tied it under CCS tarp. It worked great and we had plenty of room for 3 people, chairs and gear inside the tent. Rocks are used to hold down the plastic bottom of the netting.


We stuffed the netting into a stuff sack for a sleeping bag with a final size about 12" by 20" and it weighed 2-3 pounds. Not sure it's feasible for a solo trip, but for a small group it did great....



 
gkimball
07/09/2014 08:46PM
 
On my late June solo trip I used an Outback Double Rectangular Mosquito Net.


Bought it about 4 years ago at REI, but this year was the first time I put it up. Not horribly expensive and very light. Needed to add better guy lines. Worked well for mosquitos, but the netting is not no-see-um or blackfly proof. Both of the latter should be in decline when you go.


It really helped this past June!
 
Hawbakers
08/14/2014 07:23AM
 
Ok Thanks TallMatt. I ordered the one from BassPro shops. It will work in my REI Alcove shelter for base camping. Not sure if I will use it on my upcoming trip, husband will have to okay it. If it really only weighs 3 lbs we may justify it.


Also ordered a pair of hiking boots but will have to try them on first. Had good reviews so if my feet like them I'll let ya know.


Shipping is free on orders of $75 or more.

 
TallMatt
08/14/2014 12:21PM
 
quote Hawbakers: "Ok Thanks TallMatt. I ordered the one from BassPro shops. It will work in my REI Alcove shelter for base camping. Not sure if I will use it on my upcoming trip, husband will have to okay it. If it really only weighs 3 lbs we may justify it.



Also ordered a pair of hiking boots but will have to try them on first. Had good reviews so if my feet like them I'll let ya know.



Shipping is free on orders of $75 or more.
"



I weighed mine in at around 7 LBs on the bathroom scale (which is probably older than I am, not sure if it is accurate). 10'x10'. It packs into a large size granite gear stuff sack and is about the size of a tent.


I soaked mine in permethrin and will be using it for my week-long trip starting next Tuesday. I will try and get some photos in action. My test-run yard setups look similar to Pine Knot's photos a few posts above here. A 12'12' tarp suspended with the screen tent tied to the tarp lines with prussiks.


2 of us will be using it in lieu of a tent (with an 8'x8' tarp as a "blanket" in case there is a driving rain)... Hopefully we don't regret the decision.