Ranger R72 pros and cons

[sodaksker]

Looking at a used Ranger r72.  Does anyone have experiences with this boat?

Thanks

tut

[Javelin200]

I've been in one. Very nice entry level Ranger. If it's in good shape, and the motor checks out, you can't go wrong if the price is right. Are you looking private, or thru a dealer?

[sodaksker]

jav200,

Thanks for the reply.  I am looking at a private sale...a couple of different ones actually.  One has a 115 on it and another has a 125 on it.  Can't imagine that will make a big difference in speed.  Looking for an older boat that is not too big, that I am not afraid to hit a rock with, and that handles well in river current.

[Javelin200]

jav200,

Thanks for the reply. I am looking at a private sale...a couple of different ones actually. One has a 115 on it and another has a 125 on it. Can't imagine that will make a big difference in speed. Looking for an older boat that is not too big, that I am not afraid to hit a rock with, and that handles well in river current.

You're kidding about the "hit a rock with (it)" thing, right????

If you're predominantly running rivers, I'd suggest sticking to aluminum hulls. Whack a rock with that beautiful Ranger, and you'll be cryin' all the way to the bank....both of them.

[sodaksker]

no not kidding about hitting rocks....but just talking about the current pushing you up against the wing dikes and bumping the rocks.  I had my eye on an r72, that was already scratched up...but guy just emailed me that it sold.  I have thought about an aluminum boat but, I just like the platform and ride of glass better.

[Nitrofreak]

If bang the rocks in a glasser you wont have a boat for very long and you can find aluminum boats that work like glassers that have platforms just like you need and will even have a shallower draft than a glasser.

[Javelin200]

Nitrofreak has a great point. See if you can locate a used Tracker Avalanche. Best of both worlds.

[boatinpete]

Used to fish out of a r72,what a beautiful fishing platform,very stable even with 3 of us healthy boys the boat, hardly flinched.The rod lockers are good sized and the dual consoles were pretty good protection,the boat would not backwash,really no cons but I'd strongly suggest not hitting rocks with it.

[sodaksker]

Guys thanks for the input.  I have now been looking at a ranger cherokee 118.  A little longer and narrower boat but, it is alumuminum.  Any experience on these?

Thanks

[Nitrofreak]

That sounds a lot better I have never fished from one but a friend of mine had one and he loved his.

[noway]

I'm fishing out of R72 Sport right now.  Nice boat but could be larger. 

[sodaksker]

noway,

How long have you had your r72?  Any negatives with it?