Photo courtesy Ranger Boats
January 24, 2018
By Brad Wiegmann
Photo courtesy Ranger Boats
Game & Fish takes a closer look at the Ranger 2080MS Angler as part of our series of 2018 fishing boat reviews.
I'm not going overboard when I say the Ranger 2080MS Angler is a game changer. I can fish for salmon in heavy swells, troll creek channels for walleyes or beat the bank for spawning bass. It's a boat that can do it all on any body of water.
New angler-friendly features can't be overlooked: a large windshield with optional tops for protection from the elements, bow recirculating aerated livewell and baitwell with automatic timer.
Options like USB ports, bow-mount keypad, 12V DC power receptacles on the driver and passenger consoles demonstrate Ranger's affinity for additional creature comforts.
The uniquely designed hull kept me on track and eliminated side-to-side drifting while trolling with the outboard engine.
The boat's gunnels are flat and easily accommodate track- or rod-mounting systems. The port gunnel accepts 9-foot fishing rods while the center bow rod box can hold up to 8-foot fishing rods.
It's a sharp-looking boat, with a newly designed driver console featuring membrane-style switches. A color matching interior, with its snap-in carpet in the cockpit area, makes keeping the boat clean a cinch. The ability to store tackle boxes in the passenger's side console (within easy reach) keeps the boat uncluttered.
G&F Fishing Boat Reviews
2018 boat reviews in this series:
Fishability This boat is large — big enough to cast, fight and land fish from anywhere. The elevated front deck is a great casting platform. The rear cockpit seating area (lower to the water level) is perfect for trolling or landing big fish. Integrated tool and cup holders are located in the bow and splash-well bulkhead.
Handling If you are looking for blazing speed, look elsewhere. However, the 2080 planes quickly, and is a pleasure to pilot at a cruising speed of 40 mph. The comfortable and dry riding boat has a respectable top speed of 58.1 mph rigged with a 250 Mercury Pro Four Stroke.
What We Liked The integration of flip-down rear seats that convert the aft area into a small, but very usable, casting deck is a smart touch.
What We'd Change I'd opt for gel coat interiors on the storage and rod boxes instead of carpeting. We'd sure like to see an upgrade to a 12-inch Lowrance HDS Carbon on bow and console.
Specifications
Length 20 feet, 7 inches
Beam 100 inches
Dry Weight 2,400 lbs.
Fuel Capacity 42 gallons
Max Power 250 hp
MSRP $57,595
(MSRP includes a 250 Pro XS Optimax and trailer)
