RANGER 211 REATA

By Alan Jones and staff

January, 2009

Boat-Reviews

Ranger adds a new model to its Fish-N-Play series with the 211 Reata, and it’s an apt description for this very capable master- of-all-boats. As you would expect from a man like founder Forrest L. Woods, who likes to hand out $1 million checks to pro fishermen and fantasy fishing fans alike, this 21-footer is a very capable fishing machine. With large fore and aft casting platforms that have standard deluxe pedestal fishing seats, a standard Minn Kota 24- volt trolling motor, and a pro-style 15- gallon recirculating livewell, this Ranger is ready to fish. You even get your choice of standard Lowrance or Humminbird fishing electronics as well as lockable rod lockers, tackle management compartments and on-deck rod stays for running and gunning ease.

Boat-Reviews

Unlike hardcore fishing-only boats, the 211 Reata can switch gears immediately to become a very capable ski boat with features such as a stainless steel ski tow and centerline ski locker that can fit any board you have. And unlike regular bass boats, this Ranger has a helm forward design that gives you loads of cockpit room. There’s even snap-in carpeting and a sunpad, which are unusual features for this type of boat.

Twin bucket seats for the captain and co-pilot beat the usual sittingnear- the-floor arrangement, and on cool days the crew will definitely appreciate the extra-tall, very effective windshield. There’s seating for three in the stern with twin high-backed chairs and a middle jump seat.

Powering our 211 Reata is the maximum- rated-horsepower 225 H.O. Evinrude direct-injected two-stroke that is not only fuel-efficient, but is also a three-star, ultra-low emissions engine. Plenty of low-end torque means you can get any-size skier up easily, as evidenced by our 3.5-second time to plane and romp to 30 mph in only 6.1 seconds. Top speed is a Ranger-worthy 52 mph and unlike a lot of other bass boats, this one’s as easy to drive as the family car.