Boats

2020 Ranger RT188p

Ranger’s new tournament-ready, aluminum fisher with enhanced performance.

By Boating Tech Team

Updated: October 28, 2019

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.

An all-new keel design also offers greater strength and rigidity too. Courtesy Ranger Boats

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 sticks up to 81/2 feet long. Courtesy Ranger Boats

A forward center rod locker stores sticks up to 81/2 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.

A fiberglass bow console is large enough to flush-mount a 9-inch sonar/GPS screen. Courtesy Ranger Boats

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.

A recirculating, divided livewell with a timer is centered below the rear fishing chair. Courtesy Ranger Boats

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 bilge-access 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 pro-ready aluminum bass boat we’ve seen this year, and with the electronics, Power-Poles and trolling motors you choose, it’s the best-equipped and tournament-ready.