Anyone fishing out of a 518 Ranger?

How’s the ride? And are they truely a 19ft or are they 18.5 feet? Just trying to decide if I can save money by going to a 518 vs an older 519 or a 520. Thanx

This is just “my opinion” so hopefully I don’t get jumped on by the 518 owners. lol I personally don’t like the way a 518 rides. A couple of years ago I fished out of one at Shelbyville and I honest to god thought I broke my ribs. It was the roughest ride I have ever had in “little” water. Now 520’s are a whole different story. Those boats are very nice.

If I recall correctly (which I might not be) I think the 518’s are actually 19′ but 1′ of that is the transom setback that acts like a jackplate.

My choice between an older 520 and a newer 518 would be easy. 520 without a doubt. Of course my overall choice would be the Triton TR21X but that wasn’t part of the question. lol

JT Bagwell

I’m actually running a 518 Ranger and love it to say the least. The 518 is actually classified as 18’9″ boat. Naturally a 520 would be a better ride in big waters but I am very happy with the ride the 518 offers. I was in 4 – 5 foot rollers on lake of the woods this spring and I was impressed how dry the ride was.
I think I will be in a 520 in the future to gain alittle more fishing platform room. You have to look at the waters you’ll be in most I guess to help with your decesion. Either way I don’t think you will be dissapointed. Good luck!