An extension of the most sought-after tournament boat on the market delivers even more storage and the smoothest, driest ride on tour
It’s not often that a boat gives you a glimpse into the future, but a check of Ranger’s tournament track record makes it easy to tell where the world’s top professional bass anglers are headed. Last year, the winningest tournament boat in bass-fishing history was restyled and loaded with a host of industry-leading features, and – in turn – the top bass pros were quick to jump on board the Z520C as they rode their way to tournament win after tournament win.
This year, Ranger brings those same revolutionary features and unparalleled performance to a 21-foot platform with the all-new Ranger Z521C. Built atop the previous generation’s highly acclaimed and tournament-tested hull design, the new Z521C blends form with function by matching its performance with sleek, modern aesthetics and a host of enhanced fishing features. Measuring 21 feet, 7 inches and rated for 250 horsepower, the Ranger Z521C is available with a wide range of precision-matched, factory-rigged outboards and a wealth of customizable options that allow anglers to match their dream rig to their own styles and preferences.
“What the Ranger Z520C does so well, the new Ranger Z521C takes to an even higher level,” said Ranger Boats President Randy Hopper. “Anglers fishing larger bodies of water will experience an exceptionally smooth, dry ride. The boat really makes the most out of that extra foot of hull length – when the trolling motor is down, the larger front deck provides an even steadier fishing platform. And there’s even more storage for gear and tackle.”
While the restyled console with its stainless steel console grill, redesigned seats and other aesthetic enhancements are quick to turn heads, the new Ranger Z521C’s refinements to its lengthy list of industry-leading fishing features is what sets it apart from the crowd at the highest levels of tournament competition. At the bow, the boat can accommodate electronics with screen sizes up to 10 inches. Built-in cup and tool holders surround the recessed foot pedal, keeping the trolling motor cable tucked out of the way so that it doesn’t impede the view of the screen or block access to the digital switches. Navigation lights are built into the deck of the Z521C, eliminating the need for a forward light post, helping to preserve the clean, unobstructed look of the bow.
Underneath padded front casting deck, the port, center and starboard rod storages feature a lined, gel-coated interior and are linked to a fan, which circulates air from a blower throughout the storage boxes to help dry out tackle and equipment after a busy day on the water. With room for up to 20 rods as long as 8 feet, 6 inches in the center and portside boxes, the rod storages also feature rod racks that are easier to load and more secure when trailering and on the water.
Available in single- and dual-console configurations, the Z521C’s console is equipped with digital switches and can accommodate 10-inch electronics in the dash without the need for exterior mounts or brackets. In dual-console configurations, the passenger console is equipped with substantial storage that includes a smaller shelf for select items in addition to a large, open lower area, while the adjustable driver’s seat is built on slides to comfortably accommodate anglers of all heights. A new remote drain plug feature eliminates the need to manually pull or insert drain plugs before launch or after trailering while also eliminating the possibility of losing or forgetting to insert the drain plug at launch. The new Z521C also features an external charger plug, allowing anglers to charge batteries without leaving access hatches open, even if the boat is covered.
The Ranger Z521C comes further equipped with a flush-mounted Lowrance HDS 7 at the console and a Lowrance HDS 5 at the bow, a Minn Kota Fortrex 24-volt trolling motor and an on-board 3-bank battery charger.
The Z521C also comes paired with a custom-built, tandem-axle RangerTrail trailer. Designed to ideally match the boat for smooth, easy towing and maneuvering, the Z521C’s RangerTrail trailer is equipped with a Road Armor finish, LED lights, aluminum wheels, Boat Buckle tie downs, and the COOL Hub lubrication system as standard equipment. Designed and built in the same factory to the same, exacting standards as all Ranger boats, RangerTrail trailers are custom aligned with individually balanced wheels, equipped with torsion axle suspensions and locking, swing-away tongues. With matching fiberglass fenders and full-size spare, the Z521C’s RangerTrail trailer delivers remarkable peace of mind when trailering and complements the striking good looks and total performance design of the boat itself.
2014 RANGER Z521C
Overall Hull Length:
21 feet, 7 inches
Beam:
96 inches
Maximum HP:
250
Engine Shaft Length:
20 inches
Inside Depth:
21 inches
Fuel Capacity:
(1) 51-gallon tank
Total Persons/Motor/Gear:
1,700 lbs.
Approx. Boat Weight:
1,925 lbs. (single console)
1,950 lbs. (dual console)
Trailer GVWR:
CF5000
About Ranger Boats
Headquartered in Flippin, Ark., Ranger Boats is the nation’s premier manufacturer of legendary fiberglass and aluminum fishing boats, which include series of bass, multi-species, fish ‘n play, water fowl utility and saltwater boats. Founded in 1968 by Forrest L. Wood, Ranger Boats continues its commitment to building the highest-quality, strongest-performing boats on the water. For more information, go to the RangerBoats website.
By: Josh Ward
