Ranger Extends Partnership with Industry-Leading Lowrance Electronics

Multi-year agreement offers consumers “ultimate fishing experience”

FLIPPIN, Ark. – Ranger Boats, manufacturers of the world’s most sought-after fishing boats, recently announced the continuation of a long-standing partnership with Lowrance Electronics/NAVICO. The announcement keeps industry leaders together to provide anglers with the ultimate in innovation and performance on the water.

The news follows the recent introduction of Ranger’s 2010 models – confirming Lowrance Electronics as standard equipment on many of the company’s 40-plus models, including a number of designs with factory-installed, full-color HDS units.

“Lowrance has a strong name and great brand awareness in the marine electronics category,” said Ranger Boats President Randy Hopper. “We continually strive to provide our customers with the ultimate fishing experience and the advantages Lowrance offers – whether it’s the new high-definition sonar, broadband radar or GPS – allow us to do just that.”

Ranger customers will have premium access to the award-winning technology and features available from Lowrance/NAVICO. The new HDS (high-definition system) has been praised by anglers and industry insiders as “the most exceptional electronics system ever unveiled.” Combine this with superior networking features, available radar and weather monitoring capabilities and the highly anticipated introduction of “structure scan technology,” and the result is a perfect match for the world’s most discerning fisherman and boat owners.

“We’re extremely excited to continue our partnership with Ranger Boats,” said Sean Hatherley, Lowrance Director of OEM Sales. “Their commitment to quality and product innovation is a passion we share at Lowrance and we look forward to providing anglers with the tools necessary to maximize their time on the water.”

Ranger’s new 2010 model lineup includes introductions designed around the ability to flush-mount popular large-screen electronics like the HDS-8 and HDS-10 from Lowrance. The all-new Z521 Comanche features a totally redesigned console with room to center mount an HDS-8, while the new 621VS Fisherman – also sporting a new console – provides room to flush mount the HDS-10. Both options were driven by input and feedback from anglers across the country.

For more information, visit www.rangerboats.com or stop by your nearest Ranger dealer today.

About Ranger Boats
Ranger Boats, headquartered in Flippin, Ark., is the nation's largest manufacturer of premium fiberglass fishing boats, including a series of bass, multi-species, fish 'n play 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.

About Lowrance
The Lowrance® brand is wholly owned by Navico, Inc., a privately held, international marine electronics company. Navico is currently the world’s largest marine electronics company, and is the parent company to five well-established marine electronics brands: B&G®, Eagle®, Lowrance, Northstar and Simrad®. www.navico.com

Forrest, Nina Wood Enshrined in Freshwater Fishing Hall of Fame

Iconic Arkansas couple recognized for outstanding achievement

FLIPPIN, Ark. – Forrest and Nina Wood, legendary founders of Ranger Boats, have long been an integral part of the fishing and boating community – both in the Natural State and beyond. Their lifetime of accomplishments and contributions to a host of worthwhile organizations personify those of a true American success story: pioneers of industry who never forget their Arkansas roots.

Recently, the Freshwater Fishing Hall of Fame enshrined the couple – the highest honor bestowed by the institution. Awarded at last month’s Forrest Wood Cup in Pittsburgh, Pa., the Freshwater Fishing Hall of Fame reserves the honor of enshrinement for individuals whose lasting efforts have benefited freshwater sportfishing.

“Forrest and Nina are recognized as pioneers in the world of freshwater fishing,” said Emmett Brown, executive director of the Freshwater Fishing Hall of Fame. “The impact they’ve made continues to raise the awareness of the sport of fishing while also reinforcing the importance of conservation and the positive experience fishing affords to families and individuals alike.”

Forrest and Nina Wood join the founders of the Freshwater Fishing Hall of Fame, Bob and Fannie Kutz, as the only couples enshrined together. The Hall recognizes individuals and organizations for outstanding achievements in fishing, science, education, conservation, communications, technology, or other areas related to freshwater sportfishing with five different categories of recognition: Enshrinement, Legendary Angler, Legendary Communicator, Legendary Guide, Organizational/Governmental Agency or Special Recognition.