Z521 on the immediate horizon

So I now have a brand new Ranger Z521! Since I fish for a living, its my new office. Problem is, there's no motor on it yet. Can't chase fish is 21 foot boat (even a really cool one like the 521) without a motor. I'm not worried though - there is a 250 horsepower Evinrude E-TEC sitting in Crowley Marine's shop with my name on it. The 16 year master tech will install it tomorrow, give the whole package a pre-delivery inspection, and then send it out into the big wide world to earn its ample reputation as the ultimate bass rig. In this case, it'll be a multi-species rig because that's what we do here at Fishful Thinker - both in guiding and the TV show.

Installing a new engine on a boat is not as big of a deal as you might think. In fact Crowley Marine will handle this install in a few hours. Talk about a great way to upgrade an older boat. The E-TEC burns very clean and quiet, makes tons of torque, and requires no maintenance for 300 hours. Nice!

I'll still have to install the Lowarnce HDS electronics and load her full of tackle, but in a matter of days, it'll be Fish On! CL 

Ranger Brings About Change -- Better Work Conditions and a Better Product

Media Contact: Josh Ward
Blue Heron Communications
(800) 654-3766
josh@blueheroncomm.com

In its first 41 years, innovation and technological advancements have been a staple of Ranger Boats' legendary reputation. In an increasingly competitive industry, Ranger has set the bar once again, this time through an efficient and resource-conscious manufacturing process made possible with the addition of a custom JetTool® water jet.

Much in the same way that the RoadArmor® system revolutionized the RangerTrail division of the boat company and pultruded fiberglass changed the way transoms were built and components reinforced, the new robotic water jet will fulfill one of the factory's least-popular jobs: cutting holes and lids into the fiberglass, interior deck components of the more than 40 different Ranger models.

"In the past, these interior deck compartments were trimmed by some of the hardest-working men and women in the factory - each dressed head-to-toe in protective gear - working with a variety of jigs and making the cuts with routers, saws and drills," said Ranger Boats President Randy Hopper. "It was a difficult job that generated a lot of fiberglass dust. With the new robotic water jet everyone benefits: fellow employees get a cleaner work environment and the cost savings from improved efficiency help offset the rising cost of raw materials and the initial equipment investment."

The process begins once the boats are wheeled into the robotic water jet's booth. Following an introductory calibration process where the machine uses lasers to measure the precise placement of the cutouts, the robotic water jet forces water at 60,000 psi through a near-microscopic nozzle opening, resulting in clean, uniform cuts. The jet trims the interior deck on each Ranger model, including all hatch and storage openings, precisely locating and drilling for deck hardware. Confined within its 675 square-foot booth housed inside the 364,000 square-foot production facility, this advancement in boat building results in a cleaner work environment for employees and an improved product for the consumer.

The difference in results between robotic water jet trimming and conventional boat-building methods are vast. For the consumer, the edges of compartments underneath the deck that house batteries, breakers and pumps are smoother and offer a level of quality not seen with conventional methods. When removing mounting plates on the front deck to install electronics, the cutouts are uniform and do not impede wiring. For the manufacturer, water jet cutting means improved production times - as well as a significant savings in energy, maintenance and tool-making costs.

"There will be substantial annual savings each year in perishable tooling," said Lance Newton, Ranger Boats' Engineering Project Manager. "As our process becomes leaner, not only with the robotic trimming system but with other processes as well, it results in decreased manufacturing costs for Ranger, which can ultimately result in a more stable cost to our dealers and customers from year to year."

Ranger Boats 1850RS Makes Boating Life Top 10 List

Media Contact: Josh Ward
Blue Heron Communications
(800) 654-3766
josh@blueheroncomm.com

In the May 2009 issue of Boating Life, the publication's staff unveils its list of the Top-10 best boats of the year, judging more than 100 different models on criteria ranging from design, performance, functionality and value. Highlighting this year's list is the 2009 Ranger 1850 RS, the re-designed fish 'n' play platform that gives families a quality alternative to aluminum without breaking the bank.

Boating Life extolled the versatility of the 1850 RS – a feature-laden vessel that exceeds the needs of both serious anglers and die-hard watersports enthusiasts. With the ability to troll for walleye, cast for bass and crappie or enjoy a day packed with family fun, the magazine wrote that "in neither case did we feel compromised."

"Many attempt the 'fish and ski' concept, but most fall short of the mark in one or more areas," wrote Boating Life staffer Pierce Hoover in his glowing review of the 2009 model powered by a 150-horsepower Evinrude E-TEC outboard. "This is certainly not the case with Ranger's 1850 RS, as it meets all the needs of serious fishermen and also transitions into a darn good family boat."

Fishing features of the 1850 RS are unmistakable: a full front deck casting platform, a choice of Lowrance or Humminbird electronics at the console, baitwell on the front deck, livewell/baitwell on the back deck and a Minn Kota 70 Power Drive all come standard. The walk-through windshield, redesigned seats, on-board insulated cooler, drink holders, ski and ladder storage and Sony AM/FM Sirius Satellite-capable radio and CD player all solidify the 1850's family fun features.

"Of the 100-plus boat models we've had our hands on, some have stood out for their departure from the norm," the magazine wrote in its Top-10 list introduction. "Others stayed with us because of their solid feel at the wheel. Another group heightened our interest when we found out how much they cost. The chosen few on the following pages grabbed us for doing all of the above."

With ergonomic improvements throughout the cockpit, improved aesthetics and redesigned features throughout the vessel, the 1850 RS raises the bar in the 18-foot fish 'n' play market. "The concept behind the boat was to give customers a more stylish, more stable and better-performing alternative to aluminum boats, and right out of the gate it became one of our most popular and versatile models," said Ranger Boats President Randy Hopper. "We've added even more comforts, features and refinements this year, but fishability remains the No. 1 priority."

Measuring 18 feet, 5 inches with a 98-inch beam, the 1850 RS is rated for 175 horsepower, more than enough power to dutifully fulfill the task at hand, whether the day is for fishing or water sports. With a 38-gallon fuel capacity, the 1850 RS can make make long runs for fish, tow skiers and tubes or take the family for an evening cruise.

Ranger Unveils The New 621VS Fisherman

For those anglers that love fishing for multiple species, the 621VS Fisherman is just what the doctor ordered. Whether you're a tournament angler, fishing guide, or just a family that loves to fish, this boat is designed with the versatility to keep all parties satisfied.

This boat features additional keel built into the already proven and popular hull design, giving you unmatched stability on rough water -- water that is notorious for great multi-species fishing. With a 300 horsepower rating, increased interior comforts, and numerous storage options, this boat is the perfect blend of comfort, functionality, and performance.

For this year, the floor plan has been completely redesigned to give you more space, the console size has been increased for more protection and electronic-mounting space, and a snap-in carpet for easy cleaning and maintainence. As with all Ranger boats, the 621VS Fisherman is paired with a custom-built RangerTrail trailer that features matching fiberglass fenders, stylized aluminum wheels, Cool Hub lubrication technology, swing away tongue, and style that can't be beat.

SPECS

Hull Length: 21 feet, 5 inches

Beam: 99.5 inches

Max. Horsepower: 300

Engine Shaft Length: 25 inches

Inside Depth: 25 inches

Fuel Capacity: 55 gallons

Total Weight Capacity: 2,100 lbs.

Approx. Boat Weight: 2,270 lbs. (single console) - 2,295 lbs. (dual console)

Ranger Unveils The Z521 Comanche

Ranger's newest addition to their Z500 series, the Z521 Comanche, follows directly in the footsteps of the most popular bass boats in history, and has received numerous awards for its style and design -- from "Best in Class" to "Editor's Choice" from numerous trade magazines. This trend-setting boat features high-end handling and performance, a sleek, race inspired design, and numerous amenities that make it the pinnacle of bass boats.

According to Randy Hopper, Ranger Boats President, the Z500 series is their most asked about line, and they are very excited to finally unveil the newest addition to this line and show of its numerous features.

Measuring 21 feet, 3 inches long with a 95-inch beam, this boat is hands-down going to be the strudiest yet. The Z521 is rated at 250 horsepower, with a 52 gallon gas tank, giving you ultimate range when tracking down those fish.

For this new model, the entire console has been redesigned to offer more protection and more room for mounting today's hottest, larger-screened electronics right above the steering wheel. The Z521 also offers tons of secure storage with the standard stainless steel key lock system, which helps to ensure your cargo stays dry and safely in place. This boat also features numerous customizable seating arrangements to fit your own personal boating and fishing style. In addition, the Z521 is paired with its own custom RangerTrail trailer that features a Road Armor finish, LED lights, aluminum mag wheels with Cool Hub lubrication technology, a swing away jack and tongue, and style the complements the boat itself perfectly.

SPECS

Hull Length: 21 feet, 3 inches

Beam: 95 inches

Max. Horsepower: 250

Engine Shaft Length: 20 inches

Inside Depth: 21 inches

Fuel Capacity: 52 gallons

Total Weight Capacity: 1,700 lbs.

Approx. Boat Weight: 1,900 lbs. (single console) - 1,925 lbs. (dual console)

2010 Centennial Bass Club Full Moon Open

The Full Moon Open is more an endurance test than a fishing derby. Sure its a bass tournament where the five biggest bass win the glory and money (in this case over $1000 for a club derby!), but this derby has a twist unlike any other I know of. It's 12 hours long - overnight. Yes, anglers are required to fish 7pm through 7am!

Have you ever hallucinated in a boat? I have...the last time I fished this event. Too much coffee, energy drink, sleep deprivation and straining to see the cover you're fishing will do that to you.

This year, I'll be the event emcee (hallucintating is not something I'm fond of...) and we'll film it for an episode of Fishful Thinker TV. The folks here at Crowley Marine came through to ensure we have a couple of camera boats to record all the action and bring it to the audience. Kudos! Other event sponsors include Pedersen Toyota, Ft Collins Muffler, Silvermine Subs, Sportsman's Warehouse, Dyekman Trophy, Berkley, St Croix, Costa sunglasses, and tons of other smaller sponsors too numerous to list.

Since Centennial Bass Club started this 11 years ago as a fundraiser for charity, proceeds go to the ALS Foundation, various area food banks, and the Junior Bassmaster program. Talk about a worthwhile event!

If you live in the area, consider attending the weigh-in at 7am (yes, that's 7 in the morning...afte they fished all night while you slept!) on June 27th at the South Bay area of Horsetooth Reservoir in Fort Collins (details in case you arean't familiar with the lake: http://www.fishexplorer.com/lakedet.asp?lid=2123

Thanks again to Crowley Marine for the help with filming, and keeping my Ranger/Evinrude in top shape at all times! CL

Preparing for the new "baby"

One of the best parts about a new Ranger boat is that each one is custom built. Sure, you can buy one off the sales floor stock here at Crowley Marine, but many anglers would prefer to order their boat built to their specs. Everything from color combinations, to power choice (although why you’d order one with anything other than an E-TEC is beyond me…), to electronics, and a slew of other features can be selected by the customer.  It leads to a truly one-of-a-kind fishing machine tailored to your tastes, and each is built by hand Sweet!

The only bad part about this system is that it takes a little time to actually build and ship the boat from Arkansas to Colorado. Right now, I’m in the “between” time – that time between ordering and receipt. My 2010 Z521 is being built and to say I’m chomping at the bit would be a major understatement.  So what am I doing during this time? Preparing for its arrival of course.

I’ve re-organized all my tackle so that it goes into the new boat neat, clean, stocked, and generally ready to fish. I’ve also been cleaning up data – meaning that I’m getting my waypoints and maps thoroughly organized and ready to upload into the Lowrance HDS units that we’ll install in the boat. The new HD units are truly amazing and combined with Lowrance’s StructureScan  (www.lowrance.com) technology, they will truly lead to more fish in the boat by allowing us to find and plunder small key spots that go undetected by lesser electronics. It should make guiding a bunch easier and more informative too.

Crowley Marine will be installing the motor and electronics on my new boat so that we can film it for an episode of Fishful Thinker TV. Most folks have never seen a motor or electronics install, so we hope it’s informative. The details would apply both to a new boat, and a repower or electronics upgrade on your favorite boat. Hope you’ll tune in!

Boating Life Acknowledges Ranger's 1850RS in Top-10 Best Boats of the Year

The may 2009 issue of Boating Life unveiled the annual list which honors the best boats of the year based upon the criteria of design, performance, functionality, and value.

The Ranger 1850RS finds itself on the list as a quality alternative to aluminum for families who are money conscious. It is being honored for the ease with which it successfully pulls off the 'fish and ski' concept.

With fishing features such as a full front deck casting platform, choice of Lowrance or Humminbird electronics, baitwell on the front and back decks, as well as a Minn Kota 70 Power Drive is it unmistakable that the 1850 is meant to provide for a successful day of fishing.  Without disappointment, the 1850RS also has improved comforts, features, and refinements that make it more than capable to also provide a day full of fun water sports such as a 38-gallon fuel tank and enough power to tow tubes or skiers with ease. 

BRP and Ranger Partner for the Evinrude 100th Anniversary Sales Event

In the recent, challenging economic conditions Ranger has come up with an opportunity to take advantage of a retail incentive program that could be considered the best in the industry.  A consumer who purchases a Ranger boat packaged with an Evinrude® E-TEC® outboard engine may benefit dramatically through this program as they could walk away with a 5-year BRP factory-backed warranty and a special low consumer financing program. This promotion begins January 1, 2009 and ends April 15, 2009.

This special anniversary sales event will be supported through an aggressive advertising campaign which will utilize online, television, and mass consumer email marketing efforts. In order to participate, consumers must visit a Ranger Boats Dealer during the promotional period. 

The following benefits will be available; 1. 5-year factory backed limited warranty [3-year BRP factory warranty PLUS an additional 2-year B.E.S.T. (BRP Extended Service Terms) coverage]
2. Special financing on entire boat packages; The promotion is offered in the U.S. on consumer retail purchases between January 1, 2009 and April 15, 2009 on Ranger boats powered by new, unused 2009 model year and earlier Evinrude E-TEC engines 40 horsepower and above.

For more information consumers can visit www.evinrude.com. 

Snow day break

Don't look now, but its snowing in Colorado...again...in May no less. It's OK though, because a snow day is a good way for me to step out of the boat and get some office work done. Since our 2010 Ranger Z521 arrived and was rigged with an Evinrude 250 E-TEC at Crowley Marine, its been non-stop angling, guiding and filming. My wrist is wounded from working jerkbaits, I have tennis elbow from casting, and my shop looks more like mid-season than early spring as far as organization goes. The wrist and elbow will heal...the shop needs real help!

After a month with the new boat, one of the coolest aspects of it is the Lowrance electronics, specifically an HDS 8 flush mounted in the dash and HDS 5 in the bow. They are both networked with LSS-1 Structure Scan meaning I can see both side imaging and down imaging with ridiculous clarity. Want to dissect a piece of structure or scan a flat in a hurry? This package will do it! Brent at Crowley Marine performed a super clean install on ours.

Looking out the window, it looks like the snow is fading. Trout bite well as the snow subsides, so my elbow and wrist may have to wait another day or two to rest. Now, where's the keys to my Tundra...? CL