For me, I had already been fishing tournaments for several years when I
went to buy my new boat. I was really only interested in Champion and
Ranger. In the Rangers, I would not own a 300 series hull, and the 400
series had been out a couple years had a better ride. It came down to
dealer reputation and the ability to get good service. The decision was
actually made when the Champion dealer closed. Both dealers were 2 1/3
to 3 hour drive and I was passing by several local dealers in both
brands for the service. My Ranger dealer offered me a good trade on my
old Champion and I signed on the line. I wouldn't do anything
different except change out some of the stuff on the boat. I should
have grabbed a straight 24v trolling motor or better when they first
came available in the Johnrude's instead of staying with the 12/24v
system. I would liked to have gotten the hydraulic steering instead of
the No-Feedback, but that was the next year. I got a SuperStars boat
and it's been great. I shouldn't have bothered with the Ranger Deluxe
cover either. Otto's Canvas Shop, an Amish business here in Illinois
makes a much better cover, ideal for traveling.

But really, nice friendly people and fair pricing, great service
department on a quality brand, is what sold me. And when I needed the
service, they were there and got her back going in a short time. Never
missed a tournament because of the boat.