STACER, traditionally a brand known for its line-up of affordable tinnies, has stepped up its presence in the offshore plate boat market, unveiling a new range of plate boats last week.
Last week’s media event saw the release of eight new boats, bringing the total number of Stacer plate boats to nine. The Ocean Ranger cuddy cab range, which up until now only had one plate model, now consists of four boats – the 589, 619, 679, and 739. Stacer has also announced two new hard top models – 679 and 739. Three new Nomad Ranger side and centre console – the 489, 509, and 539 – round-out Stacer’s new range.
The new boats, according to Stacer’s director of sales and marketing, Damien Duncan, answers the needs of boat dealers and customers who were asking for a tough Aussie built plate boat for offshore fishing.
Hard tops have continued their dominance with fishos in southern states and the company said it has designed the two new hard tops to meet these needs after listening to extensive customer feedback.
The Ocean Rangers are built using a milk crate rib structure of longitudinal and latitudinal stringers. This combined with 5mm botomsides equates to a tough build ready for bad conditions.
The hull features Stacer’s EVO Advance Hull with a deeper V for a smoother ride. The wide beam design and down-turned chine design also allows for maximum internal space and excellent stability while fishing.
The Ocean Ranger range is built first and foremost designed for fishing and feature all the usual equipment you’d expect from a serious offshore boat. Onboard you’ll find a cutting board, clear window livewell, kill tank, berley bucket, ample rod holders, and a large dash for electronics. The hard top version goes further and adds a neat fold down rocket launcher system. A great idea for fishos who have trouble reaching the rocker launcher in rough seas.
Other features of the hard top include an enclosed glass windscreen, which is full sealed with wipers. The hard top has a walk-around for access to the bow.
Fishing World spent the morning fishing offshore in the 619 Ocean Ranger. The modest swell provided a good test for the boats. The boat handled the chop well, remaining dry at a reasonable pace, and stability at rest was excellent with three people on board.
Stacer also unveiled the Nomad Ranger series, which is available in three sizes. The new boats come standard as side console with optional centre console configuration. The Nomad Ranger is a true plate boat with no side pressings and a full checker plate floor. The larger 539 and 509 would appeal to Top End fishermen, while all three sizes, including the 4.89, would be popular for southern estuary fishos. The Nomad Ranger range also features the same EVO Advance Hull as the larger cabin boats.
Stacer also announced its new logo, which features a map of Australia and Southern Cross. The new logo will be rolled out across its entire range in 2014 on boats, wraps, seats, and trailers.
More details about Stacer’s new line up at www.stacer.com.au.
