Ranger’s new Z519R brings the vaunted R series to those who want a sub-20-foot hull. This rig checks in with a Mercury 225 Pro XS outboard and 23-inch-pitch Fury propeller at an even 70 mph. It cruises economically at 26 mph at 3,000 rpm, burning just 5.5 gph (4.7 mpg). That’s over 211 miles of range from the 50-gallon tank, leaving 10 percent in reserve. The Ranger pad hull design is proven over decades of refinement, giving sure-footed performance whether battling late-afternoon chop and rollers or twisting through shallows and river switchbacks. The hull yields predictable yet fun performance no matter the speed level.
The bow deck features built-in Garmin or Lowrance trolling motors and graph packages, with a recessed trolling-motor pedal tray. Wide and deep rod lockers fitted with stainless-steel auto latches and fully draining bottoms flank a center tackle-storage locker. A rod shelf replaces the older rod-tube system for easier rod access.
The optional portside console is removable with a quick-connect mounting system. The console can be ordered after purchase, if a dual-console look and protection is later desired. R-style seating is deep, wide and very plush, for a comfortable ride over long hauls. The stylized, sleek driver’s console features up to a 12-inch screen and employs tilt hydraulic steering and a foot-throttle control rigged on a fore-aft adjustable plate to accommodate different drivers.
Built-in net storage is behind the cockpit seats. A fiberglass livewell is flanked by dual storage lockers on the aft deck, with a full-beam lid covering access to livewell pumps, plumbing, batteries and chargers, and a battery on/off switch. An 8-inch manual jack plate is standard, with hydraulic optional. Following the trend of competitive anglers, all boat sonar and navigation electronics are on their own circuits, with six-gauge wire carrying the current to prevent interference from other electrical systems on board.
Ranger is always a top competitor in professional fishing circles, and this Z519R will continue the brand’s domination of bass fishing.
High Points
- New integrated tackle-and-rod storage management system in the center rod box provides ample gear management.
- Soft Riding Seat (SRS) bucket seating with coin box, plus a bike seat with pro pole and power-pedestal SRS fold-down seat are standard.
How We Tested
- Engine: Mercury 225 Pro XS FourStroke outboard
- Drive/Prop: Outboard/Mercury Fury 14″ x 23″ 3-blade stainless steel
- Gear Ratio: 1.75:1 Fuel Load: 25 gal. Crew Weight: 250 lb.
Pricing and Specs
| Price: | $76,995 (as tested); $68,995 (base) |
| LOA: | 19’9″ |
| Beam: | 8’0″ |
| Draft: | 1’2.7″ |
| Dry Weight: | 1,750 lb. (without engine) |
| Seat/Weight Capacity: | 4/1,580 lb. |
| Fuel Capacity: | 50 gal. |
