Range Boats and Evinrude Motors News
(August 30, 2010)
Below we have
- A letter from the President of Ranger Boats about what you can expect in 2011
- News about new Ranger models for 2011
- A wrap up of the 2010 FLW Tour
FROM THE PRESIDENT
Greetings from Ranger!
The 2011 Model Year is officially underway and we're excited to introduce some great new additions to our bass, multi-species and saltwater Series. The new boats have already started to arrive at dealerships across the country, showcasing the latest in design innovation and technological performance. For a sneak peak at photos, specifications and standard equipment, visit www.rangerboats.com and be sure to check out the "New Boat Profiles" below for more information on the all-new Z 100 Series, 620 Fisherman and 220 Bahia.
We're also proud to congratulate several anglers on our professional fishing team for outstanding performances in 2010. Ranger pros Bryan Thrift (bass) and Paul Meleen (walleye) both claimed Angler of the Year honors on the FLW Tour. In addition, Ranger pro Kevin Hawk recently clinched the prestigious Forrest Wood Cup title on Georgia's Lake Lanier. Check out the articles below for more details.
As always, we love hearing from our Ranger family - so feel free to send us an email (info@rangerboats.com) or give us a call at 800-373-2628 and let us help you make the most of your time on the water.
Until next time, Good Fishing!
Randy Hopper
President
Ranger Boats
NEW FOR 2011
New for 2011 - Ranger Z 100 Series
Ranger Z118 Ranger's all-new Z 100 Series brings the performance and styling of the legendary Z Comanche Series to anglers looking for smaller, value-packed designs. Comprised of three individual models, the Z100 Series features the 150hp rated Z118, the 200 hp rated Z119 and the 225 hp rated Z120. All three boats are absolutely packed with standard equipment and come equipped with matching RangerTrail trailers. For more info, specs and pictures click here. For background information, click here.
New for 2011 - Ranger 620 VS
Ranger 620 The all-new 620VS Fisherman is a big water fisherman's dream - a deep keel, open cockpit and room for in-dash mounting of today's popular, large-screen electronics. Combine all of this with an industry-leading list of standard equipment and Ranger's legendary construction quality and you'll quickly see why this rig has so many anglers talking. For more info, specs and pictures click here. For background on the boat and its introduction, click here. New for 2011 - 220 Bahia
New for 2011 - Ranger 220 Bahia
Saltwater anglers with a passion for inshore fishing have quickly come to regard Ranger as a market leader in performance-minded skiff and bay boats. New for 2011, the 220 Bahia brings a new level of value and versatility to the saltwater arena. Measuring 21' 5" and rated for 150 hp, the 220 Bahia is an ideal match for inshore anglers and fishing families alike. For more info, specs and pictures click here. For background on the boat and its introduction, click here.
FLW TOUR WRAP UP FOR 2010
Thrift wraps up FLW Tour bass AOY!
Bryan Thrift Shelby, N.C. Pro Bryan Thrift capped off an amazing 2010 season by clinching his first Angler of the Year award in what looks to be the start of an incredible career.
Thrift, who runs a Ranger Z20 powered by Yamaha, notched four top-10 finishes in five events on his way to capturing the prestigious award. For more details on his incredible 2010 season, click here.
Hawk claims FLW Cup!
Kevin HawkKevin Hawk, Ranger angler and relative newcomer on the FLW Tour recently clinched the 2010 Forrest Wood Cup on Georgia's Lake Lanier. The victory - in front of record crowds - gave Hawk a $600,000 first place prize and loads of confidence in a sport growing more and more competitive each year. For the full story, including a rundown of the entire tournament courtesy of FLW Outdoors, click here.
Meleen nets FLW Walleye Tour AOY!
Paul MeleenRanger Pro Paul Meleen was the absolute picture of consistency on the FLW Walleye Tour in 2010. Amassing some 818 points over six qualifying events, Meleen was able to outdistance fellow competitors and lay claim to one of the sport's most sought after titles. Click here for all the details and a glimpse into Paul's amazing 2010 campaign.
NEW FOR 2011: RANGER Z100 SERIES
New dream rigs give anglers more options without sacrificing performance, features
FLIPPIN, AR (July 22, 2010) Ranger's Z Comanche Series continues to lead the industry in giving serious anglers top-shelf features, comfort and aesthetics in addition to unparalleled fishability and proven performance. Now for the 2011 model year, an additional group of Ranger Z models is growing the line even further while bringing the quality and reputation of the distinctive Z Comanche Series to anglers wishing to hit the water in style with a new rig that's as accessible as it is laden with features and performance.
The new Ranger Z100 Series is comprised of three models: the Z118, Z119 and Z120. Rated for 150, 200 and 225 horsepower, respectively, the Z100 Series is ideal for serious weekend warriors who want to fish local and regional tournaments from a new boat without the price tag associated with most similarly equipped new boats. Starting at under $30,000 (depending on options), anglers can take to the water in a new Ranger Z118 and experience the custom feel of the legendary brand while being qualified for chances to add more money to any tournament winnings through the Ranger Cup program. The Ranger Cup program continues to reward Ranger loyalty through added payout to winners of qualified tournaments as long as they are the registered owners of any Ranger boat (regardless of year or model) and adhere to program guidelines.
"The Z100 Series is designed to do so many things well," said Keith Daffron of Ranger Boats. "From the spacious, balanced interior to the full-throttle engineering and custom details throughout, these full-featured rigs reinforce the Z-Series legacy at every level. Not only do the aggressive looks match the performance standards but, sticker on these designs is geared to make even more dreams come true."
Measuring 18 feet, 8 inches, the Z118 boasts a host of features not found in other 18-foot bass boats. With a new hull designed and built around the game-changing total performance technology utilized in other Z Comanche models, this rig features a large front deck that extends to the consoles complete with enormous center and port side rod lockers capable of storing 8-foot rods. Elsewhere, the completely redesigned console allows for flush mounting of modern, large-screen electronics. Available with all major brands of precision-matched outboards, the Z118 powered by a 150-horsepower engine has more than enough power to take anglers to their favorite out-of-the-way fishing spot or even participate in other water sports with the family.
A Minn Kota Maxxum 70 24V trolling motor, console-mounted Lowrance Mark-5X Pro electronics, on-board Dual-Pro 15x2 charger and a stainless steel prop are all standard on the Z118 making it possible for anglers to leave the dealership and head straight to the water. Available in both single- and dual-console configurations, the Z118 includes SRS bench seating with custom-matched premium marine upholstery, an insulated cooler with drain, integrated drink holders, lockable storage, molded driver and passenger footrests, runnin' rod rack with strap and a full complement of gauges and switches.
Similarly equipped, the Z119 measures 19 feet, 6 inches and is rated for 200 horsepower, while the 20-foot-5-inch Z120 Comanche is rated for 225 horsepower, giving anglers a host of popular sizes and power configurations to suit their needs and lifestyle.
Like all Ranger boats, Z100 Series models come paired with custom-built RangerTrail trailers. Designed to ideally match the boat for smooth, easy towing and maneuvering, RangerTrail trailers are equipped with Road Armor finish, LED lights; aluminum wheels and the COOL Hub® lubrication system as standard equipment. Designed and built in the same factory to the same, exacting standards as all Ranger boats, RangerTrail trailers are custom aligned with individually balanced wheels, equipped with torsion axle suspensions and locking, swing-away tongues. With matching fiberglass fenders and full-size spare, RangerTrail trailers deliver peace of mind when trailering and complement the striking good looks of Ranger boats.
2011 RANGER Z118
Overall Hull Length: 18 feet, 8 inches
Beam: 94 inches
Maximum HP: 150
Engine Shaft Length: 20 inches
Inside Depth: 21 inches
Fuel Capacity: (1) 38-gallon tank
Total Persons/Motor/Gear: 1,265 lbs.
Approx. Boat Weight: 1,550 lbs. (single console)
Approx. Boat Weight: 1,575 lbs. (dual console)
Trailer GVWR: CF3725
Length on Trailer with Motor Down: 23 feet, 7 inches
Length on Trailer with Motor Down and Swing-Away Tongue Open: 21 feet, 7 inches
Width on Trailer: 99 inches
2011 RANGER Z119
Overall Hull Length: 19 feet, 6 inches
Beam: 95 inches
Maximum HP: 200
Engine Shaft Length: 20 inches
Inside Depth: 20 inches
Fuel Capacity: (1) 40-gallon tank
Total Persons/Motor/Gear: 1,500 lbs.
Approx. Boat Weight: 1,625 lbs. (single console)
Approx. Boat Weight: 1,650 lbs. (dual console)
Trailer GVWR: CF4500
Length on Trailer with Motor Down: 24 feet, 7 inches
Length on Trailer with Motor Down and Swing-Away Tongue Open: 22 feet, 7 inches
Width on Trailer: 100 inches
2011 RANGER Z120
Overall Hull Length: 20 feet, 5 inches
Beam: 95 inches
Maximum HP: 225
Engine Shaft Length: 20 inches
Inside Depth: 22 inches
Fuel Capacity: (2) 24-gallon tanks
Total Persons/Motor/Gear: 1,700 lbs.
Approx. Boat Weight: 1,735 lbs. (single console)
Approx. Boat Weight: 1,760 lbs. (dual console)
Trailer GVWR: CF5000
Length on Trailer with Motor Down: 25 feet, 6 inches
Length on Trailer with Motor Down and Swing-Away Tongue Open: 23 feet, 6 inches
Width on Trailer: 102 inches
New for 2010: RANGER Z518 & Z519 Comanche Models
New model introductions round out Ranger's heralded Z500 series
FLIPPIN, AR (October 27, 2009) For competitive anglers, fishing guides and boating enthusiasts, Ranger's Z500 Series is the most sought after collection of high performance fishing boats on the market today. These scientifically advanced designs fused with Ranger's legendary construction standards represent a legacy of leadership some 40 years in the making.
Building on that heritage, the all-new Z518 and Z519 further establish Ranger's Z500 Series and bring even more options to anglers looking for the ultimate fishing experience. Both models feature the look, feel and muscle associated with Ranger's flagship designs. Stainless steel hardware, compression lid locks, plush interiors and an industry-leading list of standard equipment highlight these newest members of the Ranger Family.
"The momentum we've seen build around our Z500 Series has been incredible," said Ranger Boats President Randy Hopper. "We owe so much of that to the input we received from customers, dealers and pro staff members across the country. The new Z518 and Z519 really signal the unprecedented depth, performance and versatility of this Z-Comanche lineup."
Both the Z518 and Z519 feature an ultra competitive price as well as the same smooth, responsive and dry ride characteristics for which Ranger is known. The Z518 measures 18 feet, 8 inches in length and carries a maximum 200 horsepower rating; a configuration extremely popular among anglers looking for a smaller, more maneuverable design with plenty of power. Available with a wide range of factory-rigged outboards, the Z518 is balanced by a 38-gallon fuel capacity, 92 ½ -inch beam and features a storage system built with the tournament angler in mind. Standard equipment includes a Minn Kota trolling motor, Lowrance electronics, LED compartment light package, on-board battery charger, remote oil fill, Ranger's exclusive SRS Soft Ride Seating system and much more.
For anglers looking for a slightly larger package, the Z519 measures a comfortable 19 feet, 6 inches and carries a maximum 225 horsepower rating. Much like the Z518, the Z519 features loads of standard equipment including Lowrance electronics, a Minn Kota trolling motor, padded front casting deck, multi-function gauge package, integrated tackle management system and much more. The Z519's interior is highlighted by a completely redesigned console that's not only taller for more protection, but offers built-in mounting options for today's popular, large-screened electronics directly above the steering wheel - eliminating the need for gimbal and swivel mounts in most cases. The redesigned consoles also integrate a stylish-yet-functional concave beveling on the outside, allowing the tips of rods stored on the front deck to stay more secure while in use.
Like all Ranger boats, the Z518 and Z519 come paired with their own custom-built and serial-number-specific RangerTrail trailer. Designed to perfectly match the boat to ensure years of smooth, easy towing and maneuvering, the trailer is equipped with Road Armor finish, L.E.D. lights and Ranger's exclusive COOL Hub® lubrication system as standard equipment. Designed and built in the same factory and to the same exacting specifications as all Ranger boats, RangerTrail trailers are custom aligned with individually balanced wheels, feature swing jacks that retract flush to the frame as well as torsion axle suspension and locking, swing-away tongues. With matching fiberglass fenders and matching spare, the RangerTrail trailer delivers peace of mind when trailering and complement the striking good looks of Ranger boats.
Z518 Capacities and Specifications
Overall Hull Length: 18 feet, 8 inches
Beam: 92 1/2 inches
Maximum HP: 200 (with select engine configurations - see local Ranger dealer for details)
Engine Shaft Length: 20 inches
Inside Depth: 20 1/2 inches
Fuel Capacity: 38 gallons
Total Persons/Motor/Gear: 1,250 lbs.
Approx. Boat Weight: 1,550 lbs. (single console)
Approx. Boat Weight: 1,575 lbs. (dual console)
Z519 Capacities and Specifications
Overall Hull Length: 19 feet, 6 inches
Beam: 95 inches
Maximum HP: 225
Engine Shaft Length: 20 inches
Inside Depth: 20 inches
Fuel Capacity: 40 gallons
Total Persons/Motor/Gear: 1,500 lbs.
Approx. Boat Weight: 1,625 lbs. (single console)
Approx. Boat Weight: 1,650 lbs. (dual console)
Forrest, Nina Wood Enshrined in Freshwater Fishing Hall of Fame
Iconic Arkansas couple recognized for outstanding achievement
FLIPPIN, AR (August 17, 2009) Forrest and Nina Wood, legendary founders of Ranger Boats, have long been an integral part of the fishing and boating community - both in the Natural State and beyond. Their lifetime of accomplishments and contributions to a host of worthwhile organizations personify those of a true American success story: pioneers of industry who never forget their Arkansas roots.
Recently, the Freshwater Fishing Hall of Fame enshrined the couple - the highest honor bestowed by the institution. Awarded at last month's Forrest Wood Cup in Pittsburgh, Pa., the Freshwater Fishing Hall of Fame reserves the honor of enshrinement for individuals whose lasting efforts have benefited freshwater sportfishing.
"Forrest and Nina are recognized as pioneers in the world of freshwater fishing," said Emmett Brown, executive director of the Freshwater Fishing Hall of Fame. "The impact they've made continues to raise the awareness of the sport of fishing while also reinforcing the importance of conservation and the positive experience fishing affords to families and individuals alike."
Forrest and Nina Wood join the founders of the Freshwater Fishing Hall of Fame, Bob and Fannie Kutz, as the only couples enshrined together. The Hall recognizes individuals and organizations for outstanding achievements in fishing, science, education, conservation, communications, technology, or other areas related to freshwater sportfishing with five different categories of recognition: Enshrinement, Legendary Angler, Legendary Communicator, Legendary Guide, Organizational/Governmental Agency or Special Recognition.
Ranger Extends Partnership with Industry-Leading Lowrance Electronics
Multi-year agreement offers consumers "ultimate fishing experience"
FLIPPIN, AR (August 17, 2009) Ranger Boats, manufacturers of the world's most sought-after fishing boats, recently announced the continuation of a long-standing partnership with Lowrance Electronics/NAVICO. The announcement keeps industry leaders together to provide anglers with the ultimate in innovation and performance on the water.
The news follows the recent introduction of Ranger's 2010 models - confirming Lowrance Electronics as standard equipment on many of the company's 40-plus models, including a number of designs with factory-installed, full-color HDS units.
"Lowrance has a strong name and great brand awareness in the marine electronics category," said Ranger Boats President Randy Hopper. "We continually strive to provide our customers with the ultimate fishing experience and the advantages Lowrance offers - whether it's the new high-definition sonar, broadband radar or GPS - allow us to do just that."
Ranger customers will have premium access to the award-winning technology and features available from Lowrance/NAVICO. The new HDS (high-definition system) has been praised by anglers and industry insiders as "the most exceptional electronics system ever unveiled." Combine this with superior networking features, available radar and weather monitoring capabilities and the highly anticipated introduction of "structure scan technology," and the result is a perfect match for the world's most discerning fisherman and boat owners.
"We're extremely excited to continue our partnership with Ranger Boats," said Sean Hatherley, Lowrance Director of OEM Sales. "Their commitment to quality and product innovation is a passion we share at Lowrance and we look forward to providing anglers with the tools necessary to maximize their time on the water."
Ranger's new 2010 model lineup includes introductions designed around the ability to flush-mount popular large-screen electronics like the HDS-8 and HDS-10 from Lowrance. The all-new Z521 Comanche features a totally redesigned console with room to center mount an HDS-8, while the new 621VS Fisherman - also sporting a new console - provides room to flush mount the HDS-10. Both options were driven by input and feedback from anglers across the country.
Contact Kevin Jones for more information
NEW FOR 2010: RANGER Z521 COMANCHE
The long-awaited addition to Ranger's Z500 Series arrives in style. Ranger's all-new Z521 Comanche follows in the rich lineage of the most popular series of bass boats in modern bass fishing history. It's a line with multiple "Best in Class," "Editor's Choice" and "Excellence in Design" awards from today's most respected industry publications already to its credit.
Here is the link to the official press release and more information about this very impressive new boat. http://www.rangerboats.com/article.cfm?storyid=133
Jay Yelas
Check it out! Here’s a picture of me with Jay Yelas – a new Ranger Pro Staff. Jay is a former Bassmasters Classic champion and FLW Angler of the Year.
There’s lots going on at Ranger this time of year – check out the featured boat profile and recent product reviews included below. Go to www.rangerboats.com to check out the entire 2009 lineup.
Behind the Boat” w/ Boattest.com
Capt. Robert Smith of Boattest.com visits the Ranger plant in Flippin, AR to examine the advantages of Ranger’s legendary construction standards. Join Robert in this short video and see what seperates Ranger as the country’s premier builder of recreational fishing boats.
All-New 211 Reata Highlighted!
Ranger’s all-new 211 Reata brings even more options to boaters looking to maximize their time on the water. From the demands of water sports to fishing, cruising and everything in between – see why the editors of Boating Life and Boating World magazines applaud Ranger’s newest Fish-N-Play machine.
For the Boating World review, click here.
For the Boating Life review, click here.
Ranger Z520 honored by Trailer Boats Magazine
Since its debut, the Ranger Z520 Comanche has racked up accolades and rave reviews from all corners of the fishing industry. Most recently, Trailer Boats magazine honored the Z520 with their prestigious “Excellence In Design” award for 2009. See why editors say Ranger’s Z520 “epitomizes state-of-the-art.”
More…
Ranger Unveils New Technology
With a reputation for innovation and cutting-edge manufacturing techniques, Ranger engineers recently unveiled the newest tool in their boat building arsenal – a custom JetTool robotic cutting system desinged for improved work conditions and even better product offerings. For the whole story, click here.