Boats

Ranger Z521C

Ranger's Z521C is a high-performance fishing machine.

By The Boating Tech Team

Updated: January 11, 2014

Ranger Z521C

LOA: 21’7″
Beam: 8’0″
Dry Weight: 1,925 lb.
Seating/Weight Capacity: 5/800 lb.
Fuel Capacity: 51 gal.

Ranger Z521C

Ranger Z521C

Ranger Z521C

Ranger Z521C

Ranger Z521C

Ranger Z521C

Ranger Z521C

Ranger Z521C

Ranger Z521C

Ranger Z521C

Ranger Z521C

Ranger Z521C

Ranger Z521C

If Ferrari made bass boats it would build the Ranger Z521C.

Ranger has been making bass boats since 1968. One of the first to recognize the need for full flotation, Ranger has always earned its reputation for safety. Its all-fiberglass construction and patented “pultruded” transom mean the hull remains rigid in relation to the force of the waves and the power from performance outboards remains linear to the keel. That’s why the Z521C is so easy to keep running true at speeds in excess of 70 mph.

For Ranger, performance encompasses the way its boats fish as well. The casting decks are broad, and a heavy layer of foam under the carpet relieves stress on the angler’s frame during a grueling day of fishing. The aft deck is roomy too, and provides excellent vantage for a partner. The helm and bow electronics panels make room for 10-inch sonar/GPS displays. The trolling motor pedal is recessed, easing the effort required to steer and allowing you to concentrate on fishing.

Tournament anglers live on the road, and their tackle needs to be secure and safe whether from prying eyes or the bumps and banging of the highway. The Z521C has locking storage with individual tip tubes and butt cradles for 20 rods. The center rod compartment on the bow also holds Plano utility boxes library-style, helping the angler keep his gear organized. The storage boxes are ventilated by ducts and dried by a fan, keeping tackle corrosion-free.

The Z521C’s story is not all hard-core. Style abounds thanks to polished stainless-steel trim panels, but even those serve double duty, securing tools in the slots. A polished stainless boarding ladder hugs the stern, adding safety and looking good. Remember those annoying bow light poles that stow below? Ranger eliminated them by tucking the bow lights flush in the gunwales.

Anglers of all heights can ride comfortably in the Z521C’s adjustable driver’s seat with built-in slides. Never hunt for a bilge plug again; a remote drain plug closes by a lever near the cockpit.

Buyer’s Spotlight
*Rod locker fan keeps tackle and equipment dry.
*Bow offers space for 12-inch screens, a recessed trolling-motor foot pedal and built-in cup and tool holders.
*Custom trailer is included.
*Operate the new remote drain plug from in the boat.
*Master power switch eliminates storage battery drain.

Specs
LOA: 21’7″
Beam: 8’0″
Dry Weight: 1,925 lb.
Seating/Weight Capacity: 5/800 lb.
Fuel Capacity: 51 gal.

How We Tested
Engine: 250 hp Evinrude E-TEC 250 HO
Prop: Raker 13½” x 26″ 3-blade stainless steel
Gear Ratio: 1.86:1
Fuel Load: 25 gal.
Crew Weight: 415 lb.