Boating

RANGER RT188P

-

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.

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. A forward center rod locker stores

1 sticks up to 8 /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 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 also enhanced aft storage and bilge access by moving the fuel tank beneath the cockpit seating, opening space for large compartmen­ts and a large bilgeacces­s 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 proready aluminum bass boat we’ve seen this year, and with the electronic­s, PowerPoles and trolling motors you choose, it’s the best-equipped and tournament-ready.

 ??  ?? Price: $38,573 (as tested)
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.
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.
Price: $38,573 (as tested) 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. 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.
 ??  ??

Newspapers in English

Newspapers from United States