Ranger Z521 Comanche Review

Founded in 1968, Ranger has earned a reputation as the highest-quality, best-built fiberglass bass boats in the world. Ranger has benefitted from its long history as the official boat of the prestigious BassMaster Classic and other top tournaments, using feedback and suggestions from top pro anglers to continually refine and improve its product. The results of nearly five decades of continuous improvement can be seen in Ranger’s new Z521 Comanche.

The Z521C’s low profile makes it easy to reach fish for landing, even from the raised bow deck.

What sets the big Ranger apart is its long list of industry-leading fishing features. At the bow, the boat can accommodate electronics with screen sizes up to a whopping 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 that can tangle in fishing lines.

Underneath the padded front casting deck, the port, center and starboard rod storage lockers are linked to a fan, which circulates air from a blower to help dry out tackle and equipment after a busy day on the water. Rod racks accommodate up to 20 rods as long as 8 feet, 6 inches in length. The lockers have also been redesigned to allow easier access while fishing.

The exterior running rod rack keeps guest rods close at hand while running between spots.

The Z521C’s console accepts 10-inch screens directly, without the need for exterior mounts or brackets. The optional passenger console includes two-level storage, with 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. Now that’s slick.

The new Z521C also features an external battery charger plug, allowing anglers to charge batteries without leaving access hatches open – even if the boat is covered. Anyone who has ever had to recharge in the rain can appreciate that. A three-bank charger comes as standard equipment.

An external plug allows battery charging without having to leave any hatches open.

The Ranger Z521C also comes with a flush-mounted Lowrance HDS 7 at the console and a Lowrance HDS 5 at the bow (both upgradable), a Minn Kota Fortrex 24-volt electric trolling motor and a matching trailer. An enormous option list allows owners to fit the boat to their own tastes.

Visit RangerBoats.com for more information.

Ranger Z521 Comanche Specs
Length: 21’ 7”
Beam: 8’ 0”
Dry weight: 1,925 lbs.
Fuel capacity: 51 gals.
Maximum power: 250 hp