Fishing and family fun on the water. They’ve been the trademarks of Ranger’s Reata series of v-hull boats for a number of years. After testing the newest addition to the line, the 2050, it looks like things just got bigger and better.
The 20 footer is rated for 225 horsepower, so it has the size and muscle anglers who ply big lakes and reservoirs need. Plus, its extreme beam helps smooth out the bumps on rough water.
I drove the 2050, powered by a Yamaha 225 four-stroke, to a top end of 50.2 mph at 6,200 rpm. Hole shots averaged 4.1 seconds. Both were very acceptable, but where the boat really shows superiority is in ease of handling.
Like the Reatas that came before, this boat was dexterous, yet very easy to drive, and the ride was silky.
Standard fishing gear includes a Minn Kota Power Drive 70 bow-mounted trolling motor and Lowrance X-135 in the dash (though the test boat had the optional Terrova 80 and X-52, plus a Yamaha T8 kicker). It also comes with four pedestal seats (two can be moved to the fore and aft decks), and a pair of jump seats.
Primary dry and rod storage is under the front deck, but a built-in two-tray starboard tackle compartment and recessed storage in the gunnel are a nice touch, as is the snap-in cockpit carpet.
Ranger Boats, (800) 373-2628
Length: 20 feet, 5 inches
Beam: 96 1/2 inches
Max. Horsepower: 225
Max. Capacity: 1,820 pounds
Price As Tested: $46,216