Looking to purchase a new boat in the year or so. Currently running a 2002 Skeeter ST15.  But I am needing more room and storage space. 

 

budget is less than 35k  would really want to keep it under 30k. 

 

Looking at the current boats now

 

Ranger RT188

Skeeter TZX190  

Ranger Z117

 

Anyone have any of these boats, Pros/Cons?   Or have any other suggestions? 

 

features I'm looking for is a big casting deck, able to store up to a 8ft rod, and have plenty of storage. 

 

 

Thank you

No experience with those. Against Nitros?

I know the Ranger's have plenty of space to store up to 8' rods, and they also have a very large casting deck from what I've seen/been shown. I don't know a whole lot about the Skeeter's, but someone I know is looking to get into a new boat as well and he is looking at the Skeeter's.

I really like my current skeeter its smooth for a 15 foot boat.  just need more deck space and storage.. 

 

as far as nitros go, I am not a big Murc fan..  I don't want a 2 stroke engine I want to run a Yamaha SHO 4 stroke or Suzuki Matt black 4 stroke.  

I think you'd be happy with either of the Rangers. The one draw back to the 117 is the rod lockers are only 7' although you could put a 8' on the rod ramp on the passenger side. The RT188 will give you the 8" rod box and a slightly bigger front deck as well as a little more storage.

The Ranger 188 is quiete a boat. I work as a Sales Manager at an Authorized Ranger Dealer and we have sold several. We package them with the Merc Four Strokes and they perform very well. A lot wil depend on what your local dealer sells and supports. You can order the boat with either a Merc, Yamaha, Evenrude or Suzuki. The most important consideration is what type of engine does your local dealer sell, service and support. If I can help you , let me know.