2023 Ranger RT 188

2023 Ranger RT188

About a year ago my wife and I decided to move out to the country to get a little more land and privacy.  During that transition I got rid of the Bass Tracker Classic XL because I was focused on the house selection, moving, etc. and I knew I would have a lot of time to fish.  Now that we are settled and the move is over, it was time for me to get back into the sport. 

I decided to stay in an aluminum boat for a few reasons.  At the top of the list was cost.  I really enjoy fishing however I know that the benefit of owning a boat built specifically for fishing was really for me and not the family.  Therefore, I couldn’t justify the added cost of a fiberglass boat.  Also, the weight of an aluminum boat is much lighter, which means less running cost, ease of towing, and much easier to maneuver by hand into the garage. 

My friend has always been a fan of Ranger Boats so I decided to go and check them out to see what they offered in comparison to other aluminum manufacturers.  I saved the Ranger dealer to the last place I went because my online research told me that Ranger would be the right one to go with.  After speaking with the salesmen and spending some time with each of the sizes of boat, I decided to go with the RT188. 

This boat was well equipped as standard however I did select the engine upgrade to the Pro XS 115, trailer brakes, and the boat cover.    

The Good:

• The cost of the boat was great.  At the time it was around $36K with the added extras.  All new, all with warranty.
• Much like my previous boat the RT188 is lightweight for a boat of this size.  Towing, launching, beaching, maneuvering it manually while on the trailer, are all enhanced with the boat being lighter.  I currently tow it with a 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L V6 and it handles it without any issues at all. 
• Selecting the upgraded motor was a very good choice.  The boat is fast, efficient, and super quiet. 
• Storage around the boat is very good.  I really like the rod locker and two large lockable storage areas in the front.
• With Ranger I have noticed a lot more creature comforts, such as a cup holder and fishing tool holders strategically located around the boat.  You really can tell the boat has been well thought out in almost every aspect. 
• No wood construction.  To be honest I have never had an issue with wood decks, however I do appreciate the rigidity and expected longevity of the all-aluminum decking.
• The carpet on the boat is very high quality and is super easy to keep clean. 
• The swim ladder on the back was a nice feature.  My son and I used it a lot on our recent fishing trip and it performed very well. 

The “its Oks”:

• The storage under the driver seat is very shallow, however it still meets my needs. 
• The trolling motor was an area that I didn’t upgrade, and it is fine.  I do fish on the Ohio river and I can be up against currents and the trolling motor holds it own.  I would have liked a few more features on the upgraded version but for me it wasn’t worth the extra money.   
• The on-deck rod storage is basic.  It has a basic strap on one side of the bow fishing platform, and an additional area along side the passenger seat.  Easy to upgrade if I want to but so far, its fine.  I would have preferred retractable straps.

What I didn’t love:

• The dealer didn’t fill it with gas!  I am not sure, but I feel like when you buy a new boat the dealer should fill it up for you. 
• The driving position is shallow, and I feel like I must lean in toward the steering wheel a lot.  99% of the time it isn’t a big deal but if you are driving long distances, it can be a little uncomfortable. 

The “So What”

I have owned the boat for a few months now and I have had it on multiple bodies of water, and I can say I do love this boat!  It is a big improvement over the Tracker Classic XL that I had before.  The build quality, attention to detail, and price points are all great.  What I can say except that I have no complaints at all and I would recommend this boat to anyone!