ranger – Boating Mag https://www.boatingmag.com Boating, with its heavy emphasis on boat reviews and DIY maintenance, is the most trusted source of boating information on the web. Mon, 23 Dec 2024 16:39:46 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.4.2 https://www.boatingmag.com/uploads/2021/08/favicon-btg.png ranger – Boating Mag https://www.boatingmag.com 32 32 2025 Ranger RB210 https://www.boatingmag.com/boats/2025-ranger-rb210-bbg/ Mon, 23 Dec 2024 16:39:44 +0000 https://www.boatingmag.com/?p=94757 The Ranger RB210 features a solid, quiet ride and is packed with many fishing conveniences.

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Ranger has been building ­aluminum boats with the same prowess in quality and design it has applied to fiberglass boats for over 50 years. The all-welded aluminum RB210 inshore fishing boat proves Ranger knows its stuff.

Ranger RB210 ready to fish
The RB210 offers a smooth ride. Courtesy Ranger Boats

The base-price RB210 includes a 150, but the Mercury 200 added even more zing. Top speed is dead-on 60 mph at 6,000 rpm. Acceleration rips to 30 mph in just 4.1 seconds. It’s thrifty cruise is 30 mph, sipping 4.9 gph, making 6.1 mpg and offering almost 220 miles of fishing range—a weekend’s worth.

Hydraulic steering and the Ranger System Monitor 7-inch touchscreen display put the driver in control at the helm. 

Ranger RB210 helm
Hydraulic steering and the Ranger System Monitor 7-inch touchscreen display put the driver in control at the helm. Courtesy Ranger Boats

An upholstered, padded leaning post is comfortable yet firm. The aft casting deck offers twin folding jump seats and a 25-gallon aerated livewell.   

The RB210’s lower profile helps steady the platform in winds, but it’s deep enough to provide a safe, secure ride inshore or off the beach. The combination of smooth acceleration and turning capability makes the RB210 easy to drive, and we quickly gained confidence in it during our aggressive maneuvers. Its 98-inch beam offers what Ranger brands “Broad Beam Stability,” and it’s not marketing jargon; we proved it walking around in the boat, rod in hand. 

Ranger RB210 livewell
Loads of storage includes twin rod lockers flanking center storage compartments and a recirculating aerated livewell just forward of the step down into the cockpit. Courtesy Ranger Boats

Ranger designed the pad V-hull to float and plane in very shallow water, so fishing the flats and bayous is where this hull will really shine. It’s a quiet performer because the foam-filled, all-welded hull deadens sound and makes for a solid, rattle-free ride.

The bow casting deck supports the Minn Kota trolling motor and has a ­locker for a Bluetooth foot control. Loads of storage includes twin rod lockers flanking center storage compartments and a recirculating aerated livewell just forward of the step down into the cockpit.

Throughout the boat, fishing conveniences, such as a T-slot rail system for adding tools to the gunwales, and ample ­access to battery compartments, plumbing and electrical connections add long-term convenience in maintenance and owner satisfaction.

Ranger RB210 forward seating
Seating forward of the console is comfortable. Courtesy Ranger Boats

High Points

  • Rawhide coating on gunwales and throughout the interior provides a tough, lasting finish. 
  • Fiberglass center console with an acrylic windscreen and grab rail is sturdy and attractive.
  • Foam-filled, all-welded hull is strong and quiet.
Ranger RB210 performance data
Ranger RB210 Certified Test Results Boating Magazine

How We Tested

  • Engine: Mercury 200 Pro XS outboard
  • Drive/Prop: Outboard/Mercury Tempest 14.6″ x 22″ 3-blade stainless steel
  • Gear Ratio: 1.85:1 Fuel Load: 40 gal. Crew Weight: 250 lb.

Pricing and Specs

Price:$57,655 (as tested, same as base price)
LOA:21’10”
Beam:8’2″
Draft:1’1″
Dry Weight:2,370 lb. (without engine)
Seat/Weight Capacity:5/1,750 lb.
Fuel Capacity:40 gal.

Ranger Boats – Flippin, Arkansas; rangerboats.com

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2025 Ranger Alpha 208 https://www.boatingmag.com/boats/2025-ranger-alpha-208-bbg/ Mon, 23 Dec 2024 16:37:58 +0000 https://www.boatingmag.com/?p=94720 The Ranger Alpha 208 offers a comfortable, confident ride and a wealth of fishing features.

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Ranger’s all-new Alpha 208 is a breakthrough. The pad V-hull and rounded, sculpted transom resemble fiberglass, not the old boxy look of ­aluminum hulls. It’s a solid ride to boot.

Ranger Alpha 208 heading out fast
The Alpha 208 is built to get to the fishing grounds quickly. Courtesy Ranger Boats

The Alpha 208 proved itself a runner, with a Mercury 250 Pro XS and a top speed just shy of 72 mph at 5,800 rpm. The boat’s most economical cruising speed is just over 35 mph and 3,500 rpm, where 7 gph is consumed and 5 mpg achieved. That’s 180 miles of range from the ­40-gallon fuel tank with 10 percent in reserve. On the water, it cut tight turns confidently. To get a feel for it in heavy chop, we circled some doubled-up wakes and slid over them in comfort and confidence.

Ranger Alpha 208 helm
The sculpted console features up to a 12-inch screen. Courtesy Ranger Boats

An optional foot throttle on an adjustable slide plate makes high-speed control safer, as does tilt hydraulic steering. The standard 6-inch manual jack plate accommodates optional 8-foot Power-Poles. With the 250 hp option, we’d add either the Bob’s ($1,445) or Atlas ($1,145) jack plate for optimal performance with your load. Bob’s gives longer travel and responds quicker. The Atlas has less travel, but it is still more than adequate for the job if ­minimum draft isn’t your concern.

In the bow, the Cup Package features a Minn Kota or Lowrance trolling motor paired with Lowrance or Humminbird 9-inch graphs built into the bow and at the console. A color-matched recessed pedal pocket is standard. A padded casting deck is also standard for better comfort during long fishing days. 

Ranger Alpha 208 rod storage
Center tackle and rod storage features room for 10 more rods or 24 tackle-storage boxes. Courtesy Ranger Boats

Twin rod boxes feature rod shelves versus tubes for easier access and more rod capacity. Center tackle and rod ­storage features room for 10 more rods or 24 tackle-­storage boxes.

The step down to the cockpit has a roto-molded insulated cooler underneath. Custom EVA flooring with the Ranger logo makes for easy cleanup. Standard Ranger cockpit seating means wide, plush and deep buckets with a “buddy seat” in the center and storage beneath them. The sculpted console features up to a 12-inch screen. A 25-gallon divided livewell sits up on the aft casting deck, with storage boxes and access to bilge plumbing, ­batteries, wiring and pumps.

Ranger Alpha 208 aft seating
Standard Ranger cockpit seating means wide, plush and deep buckets. Courtesy Ranger Boats

High Points

  • Quick-remove optional passenger console makes changing the Alpha 208 from a single- to dual-console rig easy.
  • Curved, integrated setback transom is a smooth, strong, seamless design. 
  • Recessed trolling-motor pedal pocket.
Ranger Alpha 208 performance data
Ranger Alpha 208 Certified Test Results Boating Magazine

How We Tested

  • Engine: Mercury 250 Pro XS FourStroke outboard
  • Drive/Prop: Outboard/Mercury Fury 14″ x 23″ 3-blade stainless steel
  • Gear Ratio: 1.75:1 Fuel Load: 24 gal. Crew Weight: 250 lb.

Pricing and Specs

Price:$69,330 (as tested with Mercury 250 Pro XS); $60,995 (base with Mercury 200 Pro XS)
LOA:20’8″
Beam:8’2″
Draft:1’6″
Dry Weight:1,922 lb. (without engine)
Seat/Weight Capacity:4/775 lb.
Fuel Capacity:40 gal.

Ranger Boats – Flippin, Arkansas; rangerboats.com

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2025 Ranger Z519R https://www.boatingmag.com/boats/2025-ranger-z519r-bbg/ Mon, 23 Dec 2024 16:36:35 +0000 https://www.boatingmag.com/?p=94689 The Ranger Z519R fuses predictable yet fun performance with a number of fishing features.

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Ranger’s new Z519R brings the vaunted R series to those who want a sub-20-foot hull. This rig checks in with a Mercury 225 Pro XS outboard and 23-inch-pitch Fury propeller at an even 70 mph. It cruises economically at 26 mph at 3,000 rpm, burning just 5.5 gph (4.7 mpg). That’s over 211 miles of range from the 50-gallon tank, leaving 10 percent in reserve. The Ranger pad hull design is proven over decades of refinement, giving sure-footed performance whether battling late-afternoon chop and rollers or twisting through shallows and river switchbacks. The hull yields predictable yet fun performance no matter the speed level.

Ranger Z519R running fast
The Z519R offers predictable yet fun performance no matter the speed level. Courtesy Ranger Boats

The bow deck features built-in ­Garmin or Lowrance trolling motors and graph packages, with a recessed trolling-motor pedal tray. Wide and deep rod lockers fitted with stainless-steel auto latches and fully draining bottoms flank a center tackle-storage locker. A rod shelf replaces the older rod-tube system for easier rod access.

Ranger Z519R bow platform
The bow deck features built-in Garmin or Lowrance trolling motors and graph packages. Courtesy Ranger Boats

The optional portside console is removable with a quick-connect mounting system. The console can be ordered after purchase, if a dual-console look and protection is later desired. R-style seating is deep, wide and very plush, for a comfortable ride over long hauls. The stylized, sleek driver’s console features up to a 12-inch screen and employs tilt hydraulic steering and a foot-throttle control rigged on a fore-aft adjustable plate to accommodate different drivers.

Ranger Z519R helm
The stylized, sleek driver’s console features up to a 12-inch screen. Courtesy Ranger Boats

Built-in net storage is behind the ­cockpit seats. A fiberglass livewell is flanked by dual storage lockers on the aft deck, with a full-beam lid covering access to livewell pumps, plumbing, batteries and chargers, and a battery on/off switch. An 8-inch manual jack plate is standard, with hydraulic optional. Following the trend of competitive anglers, all boat ­sonar and navigation electronics are on their own circuits, with six-gauge wire carrying the current to prevent interference from other electrical systems on board.

Ranger is always a top competitor in professional fishing circles, and this Z519R will continue the brand’s ­domination of bass fishing.

Ranger Z519R rod storage
Wide and deep rod lockers flank a center tackle-storage locker. Courtesy Ranger Boats

High Points

  • New integrated tackle-and-rod storage management system in the center rod box provides ample gear management.
  • Soft Riding Seat (SRS) bucket seating with coin box, plus a bike seat with pro pole and power-pedestal SRS fold-down seat are standard.
Ranger Z519R performance data
Ranger Z519R Certified Test Results Boating Magazine

How We Tested

  • Engine: Mercury 225 Pro XS FourStroke outboard
  • Drive/Prop: Outboard/Mercury Fury 14″ x 23″ 3-blade stainless steel
  • Gear Ratio: 1.75:1 Fuel Load: 25 gal. Crew Weight: 250 lb.

Pricing and Specs

Price:$76,995 (as tested); $68,995 (base)
LOA:19’9″
Beam:8’0″
Draft:1’2.7″
Dry Weight:1,750 lb. (without engine)
Seat/Weight Capacity:4/1,580 lb.
Fuel Capacity:50 gal.

Ranger Boats – Flippin, Arkansas; rangerboats.com

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2025 Ranger Reata 243C https://www.boatingmag.com/boats/2025-ranger-reata-243c-bbg/ Mon, 23 Dec 2024 16:29:00 +0000 https://www.boatingmag.com/?p=95095 The Ranger Reata 243C is a well-equipped, luxury performance pontoon.

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Ranger, known as a pioneering ­builder of premium fiberglass and aluminum bass boats, now expands into premium pontoons. The Reata 243C, rigged with a FourStroke Mercury 200 outboard, sells complete for a competitive $66,525 (in a market with many $100,000 24-foot ­pontoons) and steps out at nearly 40 mph.

Ranger Reata 243C out cruising
Triple logs with lifting strakes give excellent acceleration. Courtesy Ranger Boats

The Reata is a well-equipped, luxury performance pontoon. Triple logs with lifting strakes give excellent acceleration when pushed by the standard Mercury 200 outboard. Dead idle to 30 mph in just 6.5 seconds and a top speed of 39 mph show that the Reata will perform with a boatload of friends as well as serve as a solid watersports tow platform. It’ll do so while only gently denting the fuel budget; most economical cruise is a sedate 13.5 mph at 2,500 rpm, burning 2.8 gph (4.8 mpg). With its 52-gallon fuel tank, that’s almost 225 miles of tooning—probably a couple of weekends—leaving 10 percent in reserve. It’s quiet too; posting just 66 decibels at the helm means conversing without shouting over the engine and water noise. 

Ranger Reata 243C helm
The Ranger touchscreen system monitors the outboard and the boat’s electrical systems via a digital display on the dash. Courtesy Ranger Boats

Out on the water, turning is predictable, and it glides over the rough stuff in comfort. Construction is stout, featuring 26-inch-diameter, 0.1-inch-thick aluminum pontoons with heavy-duty mechanical deck superstructure attachments and ¾-inch-thick treated plywood decking.

The Reata 243C has a traditional layout: twin facing loungers in the bow, a captain’s chair swiveling recliner in the cockpit for the pilot and navigator, and a stern conversation pit with two more facing lounge sofas. Aft, an extended deck is geared for watersports, with a folding stainless-steel boarding ladder with handrails. Under the seat cushions, large storage compartments remain dry thanks to molded-­in deep rain channels that keep water out and draining overboard. 

Navigation, docking lights and interior lighting are all LED. The Ranger touchscreen system monitors the outboard and the boat’s electrical systems via a digital display on the dash. A Wet Sounds Bluetooth sound system with four speakers is standard. A ski tow pylon is one of just a handful of options.

Ranger Reata 243C moving fast
Aft, an extended deck is geared for watersports. Courtesy Ranger Boats

High Points

  • Pontoon logs are powder-coated and clear-coated for stain and corrosion resistance.
  • Easy-Lift Bimini top is standard. 
  • Ranger’s touchscreen system monitors the outboard and replaces analog gauges.
Ranger Reata 243C performance data
Ranger Reata 243C Certified Test Results Boating Magazine

How We Tested

  • Engine: Mercury 200 FourStroke outboard
  • Drive/Prop: Outboard/Mercury Enertia 15.3″ x 14″ 3-blade stainless steel
  • Gear Ratio: 1.85:1 Fuel Load: 25 gal. Crew Weight: 250 lb.

Pricing and Specs

Price:$66,525 (base)
LOA:26’2″
Beam:8’6″
Draft:1’1″
Dry Weight:3,016 lb. (without engine)
Seat/Weight Capacity:12/1,950 lb.
Fuel Capacity:52 gal.

Ranger Boats – Flippin, Arkansas; rangerboats.com

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2024 Ranger Reata 223FC https://www.boatingmag.com/boats/2024-ranger-reata-223fc-pbbg/ Tue, 30 Apr 2024 17:56:35 +0000 https://www.boatingmag.com/?p=87599 Ranger's Reata 223FC is packed full of amenities that are sure to satisfy anglers as well as boating families.

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Ranger Reata 223FC on the lake
The 223FC can be powered with Mercury outboards up to 200 hp. Courtesy Ranger Boats

Ranger Boats ranks as one of the world’s premier fishing-boat builders. Pontoon buyers who enjoy angling can “cast” themselves in the ­confident glow of Ranger’s expertise by considering the Reata 223FC.

This fish-and-play design delivers enough stowage for plenty of fishing gear, plus other accessories such as water skis, sandbar floats and beach chairs. A 7-foot-6-inch rod locker, located on the starboard side, will accommodate fishing outfits up to 7 feet, 6 inches long. In the bow, and in the stern, anglers enjoy fishing stations and rod holders, as well as holders for drinks and tools. Forward, find two deluxe swiveling, reclining fishing seats with self-leveling arms and a storage pouch. On the aft deck, find two fold-down fishing chairs. Aerated livewells are located fore and aft. If you want a trolling motor, adding one is easy thanks to the pre-wiring.

Ranger Reata 223FC fishing
Fishing stations can be found fore and aft. Courtesy Ranger Boats

New for 2024, Ranger’s RIDE (Ranger Intelligent Display Engine) touchscreen graces the helm. There’s a 12-button switch panel here, and you command from a swiveling, reclining high-backed chair with a storage pocket. Overhead, the EasyLift Bimini top offers LED lights and a storage pocket. There’s abundant storage inside the plush L lounge and aft bench, each made with multidensity foam for maximum comfort. Deep gutters surround the lockers to keep stowed gear dry. Also new, the woven flooring is cushioned and easy to maintain. Aft, a four-step stainless-steel swim ladder eases boarding from the water.

Ranger Reata 223FC bow seating
Forward, there’s a comfortable lounger and two deluxe swiveling, reclining fishing seats. Courtesy Ranger Boats

The rugged construction aboard the 223FC includes 26-inch-diameter logs made from 0.100-gauge aluminum. Its  deck is 3/4-inch marine plywood; the transom is an all-aluminum box beam. Ranger backs it with a 10-year lifetime limited structural warranty.

Power the 223FC with Mercury outboards up to 200 hp. With undercladding and strakes on the logs, this pontoon can deliver performance. A changing-room kit, ski tower and tandem-axle trailer are some available ­options. Fishing pontooners should make Ranger’s Reata 223FC a must-see.

Ranger Reata 223FC docked for camping
The rugged construction aboard the 223FC includes 26-inch-diameter logs. Courtesy Ranger Boats

High Points

  • Four-step, folding stainless-steel swim ladder makes getting in and out of the water safer and easier.
  • New Ranger RIDE (Ranger Intelligent Display Engine) system provides touchscreen monitoring and control of multiple functions at the dash.
  • EasyLift Bimini top comes with an LED light and a stowage pocket, and looks great.
  • Fishing stations fore and aft; livewells fore and aft, plus a huge rod locker that will stow outfits up to 7 feet, 6 inches in length. 

Pricing and Specs

Price:$54,995 (nationally advertised price with 150 hp FourStroke Mercury)
LOA:24’2″
Beam:8’6″
Draft:NA
Dry Weight:2,639 lb.
Seat/Weight Capacity:11/1,545 lb.
Fuel Capacity:52 gal.
Available Power:Single Mercury outboard to 200 hp

Ranger Boats – Flippin, Arkansas; rangerboats.com

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2023 Ranger Z520R https://www.boatingmag.com/boats/2023-ranger-z520r-fwbbg/ Fri, 14 Oct 2022 14:10:18 +0000 https://www.boatingmag.com/?p=82096 The Z520R combines comfortable fishability with competitive performance.

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There are a handful of premium bass-boat brands at the apex of tournament fishing. Ranger has always been one of them. People were hand-wringing after it was acquired by White River Marine, the parent company of Johnny Morris’ Tracker Marine, but the acquisition broadened Ranger’s dealer network and expanded access to service, and the company continues to hand-build gorgeous, rugged, beautiful bass boats. The new Z520R is a perfect example.

Ranger Z520R heading out fast
A beautiful boat packed with performance. Courtesy Ranger Boats

Ranger aims for comfortable fishability with reliable, competitive performance. Our test rig, fitted with a Mercury 250 Pro XS, freight-trained over 12-inch chop and larger boat wakes at 68.4 mph while fully equipped with trolling-motor batteries, a full tank of fuel and two test drivers. It’s pretty frugal for its size, making 3.9 mpg at 40 mph. Handling was pure Ranger legacy—smooth at all speeds, easy in turns, and never a threat of chine walking at top-end. The 18-degree deadrise, multistrake padded V-hull gives a solid, secure feel, even in rough chop. It features a tilt helm with hydraulic SeaStar steering system.

The console is extra tall and wide to accommodate dual side-by-side 12-inch Lowrance HDS graphs plus the Ranger RIDE digital-switching screen just below and to starboard. The cockpit seating is plush, deep and wide. Between the seats is a dry-storage box with phone charger and key tray. The optional passenger console is removable and has a large glove box.

Ranger Z520R helm
Our tester had a Lowrance HDS 12, with room to spare. Courtesy Ranger Boats

Our tester had a Lowrance HDS 12, with room to spare. The HDS graph works together with the Ghost trolling motor to navigate and control with better accuracy for angling. Ranger’s rod-storage systems with tip protectors and room for dozens of utility boxes is unsurpassed. Tons of dry storage is available, including compact compartments such as the cooler step forward and the glove box under the aft center step.

Twin livewells are amply aerated and recirculated to keep the catch healthy.

The full-beam bilge hatch gives generous access to batteries, pumps, breakers and a charger. A Slidemaster manual jack plate is fitted and has optional dual Power-Poles.

Ranger Z520R livewell
Twin livewells are amply aerated. Courtesy Ranger Boats

How We Tested

  • Engine: Mercury 250 Pro XS FourStroke
  • Drive/Prop: Outboard/Mercury Fury 14″ x 23″ 3-blade stainless steel
  • Gear Ratio: 1.75:1 Fuel Load: 46 gal. Crew Weight: 500 lb.

High Points

  • Tracker lithium batteries and charger are standard.
  • Gelcoated storage lockers have a protective Ranger-logo mat.
  • Forward casting deck is padded beneath plush carpet to reduce angler fatigue.

Pricing and Specs

Price:$98,030 (as tested)
LOA:20’11”
Beam:8’0″
Draft:1’5″
Dry Weight:1,850 lb.
Seat/Weight Capacity:5/1,650 lb.
Fuel Capacity:54 gal.
Livewell Capacity:31 gal.

Speed, Efficiency, Operation

Ranger Z520R performance data
Ranger Z520R Certified Test Results Boating Magazine

Ranger Boats – Flippin, Arkansas; rangerboats.com

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2020 Ranger RP 200F https://www.boatingmag.com/story/boats/2020-ranger-rp-200f-pbbg/ Mon, 16 Mar 2020 19:09:50 +0000 https://www.boatingmag.com/?p=72342 The RP 200F provides the simple pleasures of a pontoon with the performance of Ranger.

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This is Ranger’s fourth year in the pontoon marketplace, and we think it’s the company’s best, thanks, in part, to this new, fully featured but value-priced RP 200F. Part of the Classic Series, the affordable RP 200F builds on Ranger’s premium-quality lineup.

Ranger RP 200F running shot
The RP 200F sports ample performance courtesy of its ­PowerPod motor mount. Courtesy Ranger Boats

The nearly 22-foot fishing pontoon has plenty of crew-carrying capacity thanks to its 24-inch-diameter pontoons, and ample performance courtesy of its PowerPod motor mount that sets the propulsion aft of the logs for cleaner water out of the pontoon turbulence to enhance acceleration and top end. Powered by a 90 hp Mercury FourStroke outboard, the RP 200F hit a top speed of 24.2 mph at 5,900 rpm and consumed an economical 8.3 gph. With the standard 40 hp Mercury FourStroke, this pontoon prices at less than $24,000.

Ranger RP 200F helm
The helm is nicely equipped and offers great visibility. Courtesy Ranger Boats

An abundance of standard features reduces the need to ponder options. Anglers will enjoy the two corner fishing stations at the bow, complete with rod and tool holders. There is storage underneath, with matching swivel pedestal fishing chairs beside them. An aft fishing station boasts a livewell in its corner pod. The padded seat in front of the console holds a second livewell. Trolling-motor batteries are stored beneath the console. There is a lockable rod box and ample storage for tackle, watersports gear and life jackets underneath the seats in guttered storage that diverts water away from the gear.

Ranger RP 200F bow seating
Anglers will enjoy the two corner fishing stations at the bow. Courtesy Ranger Boats

The trolling motor is removable for family cruises made comfortable in the luxurious, supple vinyl seats. The deck’s vinyl woven mat is durable, washable and sporty-looking. The main seating area is shaded by a standard Bimini top, which is spring-assisted when raising or lowering it. The system works so well, smaller passengers can safely raise or lower the top without assistance. That makes choosing full sun or cooling shade an easy choice and one accomplished in seconds, not minutes. To work it, flip open the Bimini support latches, fold back the brow, and lower the shade with one hand. It raises as easily and quickly—eliminating the most common complaint of Bimini tops.

Ranger RP 200F aft fishing station
An aft fishing station boasts a livewell in its corner pod. Courtesy Ranger Boats

High Points

·Optional fish package includes Minn Kota motor and Lowrance Hook 2 5-inch sonar/GPS.

·LED courtesy lights are handy for night fishing.

·Aft boarding platform equipped with a sturdy stainless-steel boarding ladder (standard).

Ranger RP 200F aft seating
Supple vinyl seats make cruising comfortable. Courtesy Ranger Boats

Specs

LOA: 21′11”

Beam: 8′6”

Draft: N/A

Dry Weight: 1,700 lb.

Seat/Weight Capacity: 10/1,370 lb.

Fuel Capacity: 32 gal.

Price: $28,315 (as tested)

Ranger RP 200F performance chart
Ranger RP 200F Certified Test Results Boating Magazine

How We Tested

Engine: Mercury 90 ELPT FourStroke Command Thrust

Drive/Props: Outboard/Mercury Enertia 16″ x 11″ 3-blade stainless steel

Gear Ratio: 2.07:1

Fuel Load: 32 gal.

Crew Weight: 370 lb.

More Information

Ranger Boats – Flippin, Arkansas; 870-453-2222; rangerboats.com

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2020 Ranger RB200 https://www.boatingmag.com/2020-ranger-rb200/ Mon, 28 Oct 2019 22:04:16 +0000 https://www.boatingmag.com/?p=70266 The thoughtfully-crafted RB200 is sure to be a fan favorite.

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Ranger’s RB series proved itself popular among bass, crappie and coastal anglers—and now includes this larger new RB200.

Ranger RB200 running shot
The RB200’s stout foam-filled hull is solid and knocked down double-up wakes. Courtesy Ranger Boats

Our test boat was powered by a four-stroke Mercury 150 ProXS outboard, a speedy, agile combination enhanced by hydraulic steering and smooth, precise throttle control. The RB200 planed in 2.8 seconds, reached 30 mph in 6.4 seconds and missed 50 mph by just a fraction. The RB200’s stout foam-filled hull is solid and knocked downdouble-up wakes without knocking out dental work—something many aluminum boats can’t do.

Ranger RB200 helm
The all-fiberglass helm station has a sturdy grab rail and can hold a 9-inch sonar/GPS display. Courtesy Ranger Boats

Ranger owners have come to expect ergonomic efficiency as well as stellar performance. This means paying attention to details that are often overlooked in the showroom. New steps—a pair nested port and starboard in the corners of forward bulkheads—make it easy to mount the casting deck. Three seat pedestals, one in the center flanked by two more, allow for setting it up with a leaning seat or a pair of folding seats for crappie spider riggers. Then there’s Ranger’s Lock-Track tool rail that runs the length of each gunwale, accommodating as many rod holders as you care to mount.

Ranger RB200 bow platform
The wide front casting deck includes a trolling-motor pedal storage compartment with a trim ring to convert the compartment into a recessed tray. Courtesy Ranger Boats

The wide front casting deck includes a trolling-motor pedal storage compartment with a trim ring to convert the compartment into a recessed tray.

The RB200’s layout is perfectly tailored for taking on inshore fisheries or buddy bass tournaments with dual livewells, ample rod boxes, and cavernous in-deck storage on the fore and aft decks and under the rear jump seats. Rod lockers to port and starboard hold up to 8-foot-6-inch rods. The front center livewell is ideal for keeping the catch fresh and holds larger fish such as muskie, stripers and snook along with a bait bucket for leeches or minnows. The all-fiberglass helm station has a sturdy grab rail and can hold a 9-inch sonar/GPS display. There’s a wide leaning post for two people and it’s flanked by jump seats aft.

Ranger RB200 aft seating
There are dual livewells, ample rod boxes, and cavernous in-deck storage on the fore and aft decks and under the rear jump seats. Courtesy Ranger Boats

Quick, nimble, easy to trailer, ultimately fishable for any species—the RB200 might be the most tempting fish boat we’ve seen in this price range.

High Points

⋅Batteries are easily accessible under the console.

⋅The rugged Rawhide spray-in cockpit floor liner is handsome and easy to care for.

⋅A standard aluminum-frame trailer makes it easy to launch, load and haul the boat.

Ranger RB200 performance data
Ranger RB200 Certified Test Results Boating Magazine

Specs

LOA: 20′4″

Beam: 8′0″

Draft (max): 1′0″

Dry Weight: 1,550 lb.(without engine)

Seat/Weight Capacity: 5/825 lb.

Fuel Capacity: 28 gal.

Price: $37,714 (as tested)

How We Tested

Engine: Mercury 150 Pro XS

Drive/Props: Outboard/Mercury Revolution 19

Gear Ratio: 2.08:1

Fuel Load: 25 gal.

Crew Weight: 370 lb.

More Information

Ranger Boats – Flippin, Arkansas; 870-453-2222; rangerboats.com

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2020 Ranger RT188p https://www.boatingmag.com/2020-ranger-rt188p/ Mon, 28 Oct 2019 21:56:26 +0000 https://www.boatingmag.com/?p=70267 Ranger’s new tournament-ready, aluminum fisher with enhanced performance.

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The only thing that could improve the performance of the original RT188 is the pad and offset transom on the 2020 version.

Together, these features deliver better handling, more stability and a faster top speed than traditional aluminum bass boats with modified V-bottom hulls. An all-new keel design also offers greater strength and rigidity too.

Ranger RT188P running shot
An all-new keel design also offers greater strength and rigidity too. Courtesy Ranger Boats

The RT188P’s sporty look features Ranger’s custom graphics and a metallic urethane paint—you choose the combination from six options. The upholstery is not only designed to complement hull colors, its three-dimensional cushions offer the big-boat ride expected from Ranger’s fiberglass tournament boats.

On the forward casting deck, a recessed tray keeps the optional Minn Kota Max 70 trolling-motor pedal handy when needed and secure when trailering.

Ranger RT188P bow storage
A forward center rod locker stores sticks up to 81/2 feet long. Courtesy Ranger Boats

A forward center rod locker stores sticks up to 81/2 feet long. Or, the rod locker can be arranged to hold Plano 3700 utility boxes while keeping shorter rods in the portside locker. A starboard tackle compartment and fiberglass cooler complete the storage options.

Ranger RT188P helm
A fiberglass bow console is large enough to flush-mount a 9-inch sonar/GPS screen. Courtesy Ranger Boats

Ranger added three fiberglass elements to enhance the utility and look inside. A fiberglass bow console is large enough to flush-mount a 9-inch sonar/GPS screen. The fiberglass helm console accommodates gauges, one-touch switching and a Lowrance HOOK2 7 combo fish finder/GPS unit at the optimal viewing angle. An optional fiberglass storage step between seats holds phones and keys.

Ranger RT188P aft storage
A recirculating, divided livewell with a timer is centered below the rear fishing chair. Courtesy Ranger Boats

Ranger also enhanced aft storage and bilge access by moving the fuel tank beneath the cockpit seating, opening space for large compartments and a large bilge-access hatch on the aft casting deck. With insulated lids on the storage compartments, they are ideal for stowing life jackets, rain gear and other large items. A recirculating, divided livewell with a timer is centered below the rear fishing chair.

The RT188P may be the most pro-ready aluminum bass boat we’ve seen this year, and with the electronics, Power-Poles and trolling motors you choose, it’s the best-equipped and tournament-ready.

High Points

⋅A color-matched trailer is standard with the RT188P.

⋅Three fiberglass pods add practical, stylish spots for electronics and gear.

⋅Transom design accommodates dual Power-Poles and hydraulic jack plate.

Ranger RT188P performance data
Ranger RT188P Certified Test Results Boating Magazine

Specs

LOA: 18′4″

Beam: 7′8″

Draft (max): 1′0″

Dry Weight: 1,300 lb.

Seat/Weight Capacity: 4/660 lb.

Fuel Capacity: 24 gal.

Price: $38,573 (as tested)

How We Tested

Engine: Mercury 115L Pro XS FourStroke

Drive/Props: Outboard/Mercury 23P Tempest

Gear Ratio: 2.07:1

Fuel Load: 10 gal.

Crew Weight: 450 lb.

More Information

Ranger Boats – Flippin, Arkansas; 870-453-2222; rangerboats.com

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2020 Ranger 621cFS PRO https://www.boatingmag.com/2020-ranger-621cfs-pro/ Mon, 28 Oct 2019 21:33:26 +0000 https://www.boatingmag.com/?p=70269 The 621cFS PRO offers smoother rides, higher horsepower, and next-level functionality.

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The 621cFS PRO might be the most technologically advanced freshwater fishing boat we’ve tested. Designed for walleye anglers, it is loaded with innovative technology such as Ranger’s RIDE (Ranger Intelligent Display Engine), a 9-inch, touchscreen switching system for controlling and monitoring all the functions of the boat.

Ranger 621cFS PRO running shot
We cut sharp turns to create wakes, which this Deep-V model handled with ease. Courtesy Ranger Boats

The upholstered helm console is redesigned with a luxury-car look and accommodates a 16-inch sonar/chart plotter along with the RIDE display.

The all-new FS PRO Series hull delivers optimal performance when it steps up on pad, and it has the solid construction for which Ranger is known. With a Mercury 400 XL Verado engine, it shot from the hole in 5.1 seconds and accelerated to 30 miles per hour in 10.6 seconds. We cut sharp turns to create wakes, which this Deep-V model handled with ease.

Ranger 621cFS PRO
Forward storage boxes are gelcoated and boast Ranger’s Power Ventilation Rod Storage system that removes moisture to inhibit corrosion and mildew. Courtesy Ranger Boats

Ranger delivered a larger cockpit by removing the rear tackle boxes and replaced storage by lengthening the bow deck 4 inches to enlarge the forward storage boxes. At the bow, a trolling-motor pedal storage box and a concealed drawer—tap it with your toe to deploy it—for storing pliers and other fishing tools were added.

Forward storage boxes are gelcoated and boast Ranger’s Power Ventilation Rod Storage system that removes moisture to inhibit corrosion and mildew. The bow center rod locker can handle 8-foot-6-inch-long rods. A cooler on the port side and a baitwell on the starboard side flank the center rod compartment. The front deck step has a net handle socket for stowing a landing net and a storage compartment below.

Ranger 621cFS PRO
The upholstered helm console is redesigned with a luxury-car look and accommodates a 16-inch sonar/chart plotter along with the RIDE display. Courtesy Ranger Boats

Our test boat was equipped with one Power-Pole, along with optional Zipwake interceptors. These compact modules replace trim tabs and won’t obstruct a kicker motor. Adding to the robotic-tech effect, Zipwakes automatically react to conditions and load balance to keep the boat on level pitch and roll and ideal trim.

Ranger 621cFS PRO
Dual livewells efficiently maintain a lively catch and keep bait frisky. Courtesy Ranger Boats

Walleye pros might have set the style for this boat, but it will be coveted by anglers of muskie, pike, stripers and black bass throughout the U.S.A.

High Points

⋅Luxuriously upholstered seating and coaming pads.

⋅An electronic, programmable, combination-ignition touchscreen keeps the boat secure at the dock.

⋅Dual livewells efficiently maintain a lively catch and keep bait frisky.

Ranger 621cFS PRO performance data
Ranger 621cFS PRO Certified Test Results Boating Magazine

Specs

LOA: 21′10″

Beam: 8′6″

Draft (max): 1′4″

Dry Weight: 2,450 lb.

Seat/Weight Capacity: 7/2,300 lb.

Fuel Capacity: 56 gal.

Price: $114,130 (as tested)

How We Tested

Engine: Mercury 400XL Verado

Drive/Prop: Bravo 22

Gear Ratio: 5.44:1

Fuel Load: 45 gal.

Crew Weight: 380 lb.

More Information

Ranger Boats – Flippin, Arkansas; 870-453-2222; rangerboats.com

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