When you first lay eyes on this rig, the words “deck boat” immediately come to mind. But don’t say them out loud, or you might get slapped by the dealer.
Ranger touts the 2250SS as a whole new category—a fishing boat with deck boat characteristics. In fact, it’s built on the hull of a 22-foot bay boat, and behaves accordingly on the water.
With a Mercury 250XS on the transom, my test boat GPSed a respectable 53.8 mph, exited the hole in 4.8 seconds, and stayed glued in tight corners.
While this massive center-console boat does offer things like lounge seating fore and aft, as well as an optional head and bimini top, it’s much more of a fishing machine. It features roomy bow and stern casting decks, copious front, rear and underseat storage compartments, carpeted port and starboard rod/ski lockers, as well as a livewell at each end.
A unique feature is the SeaDek soft, non-skid surface on the casting decks. It dampens noise and is easy on the feet and legs.
I can see the 2250SS as an excellent option for catfish, striper, crappie and inshore anglers, but in truth, any fisherman who plies big waters or fishes with more than a couple of family members or friends should take a critical look at it.
Ranger Boats, (800) 373-2628
Length: 22 feet, 6 inches
Beam: 101 inches
Max. Horsepower: 250
Max. Capacity: 2,200 pounds
Price As Tested: $49,620