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October 23, 2015

Humminbird® Supersizes HELIX®, Refines CHIRP Technology

New HELIX 9, 10 and 12 CHIRP offer bigger screens, networking and AutoChart® Live

EUFAULA, AL. (10/21/15) – On the heels of HELIX® 5 and the ICAST 2015 “Best of Electronics” award-winning HELIX® 7, Humminbird brings anglers and boaters new supersized HELIX® units with unprecedented functionality. Please welcome HELIX 9, HELIX 10 and HELIX 12 CHIRP. 

The big brothers of the compact-format HELIX 5 and 7, the new HELIX 9, HELIX 10, and HELIX 12 CHIRP bring an eye-popping 1500 nits of widescreen brightness to your boat, making them easily readable in direct sunlight – even when wearing sunglasses. “One of the most common requests by anglers is to be able to see the screen better and we’ve answered their call,” said Jeff Kolodzinski, Humminbird Brand Manager. But that’s not where their powerful performance stops.

The HELIX 9, 10, and 12 CHIRP offer the full range of Humminbird Imaging technologies like patented Side Imaging®, Down Imaging® and 360 Imaging® compatibility making fish-finding a lot more about the finding. 

One of the biggest HELIX advancements is that the new models are Ethernet capable, allowing them to share waypoints and SONAR across the network. “You want to have a unit right where you fish, so it’s really an advantage to be able to run more than one unit on the boat while sharing data across the network,” Kolodzinski continued. Many anglers have one on the console and one on the bow. Anglers can now see the same waypoints, SONAR and other data on both units and be in the know, wherever they are in the boat. Ethernet networking also brings compatibility with Minn Kota® iPilot® Link™ for the ultimate in boat positioning and fishing navigation.

Even better, anglers can now go where no map has ever been with one-of-a-kind, patent-pending AutoChart® Live technology, which allows anglers to make their own maps in real-time, no PC, server or Cloud connection required. Internal memory will store up to 8 hours of mapping data, or add an optional ZeroLine SD card for years of recording and the ability to share map data with a buddy. 

And when it comes to getting around on your favorite waters, all are LakeMaster compatible with new PLUS map cards with aerial image overlay.  Anglers will continue to enjoy the patented Humminbird LakeMaster benefits of Water Level Offset, Shallow Water Highlight and Depth Highlight.

While all that tech talk may scare away some folks, the hallmark feature of any Humminbird is ease of use. The HELIX 9, 10 and 12 CHIRP all feature the new REFLEX™ operating system. “It’s an upgrade for sure, but it feels and operates in the classic Humminbird simplicity that has won the bows and consoles of so many anglers,” said Kolodzinski. “The units are so easy to operate while delivering many technology options for fish finding and navigation.”

HELIX 12 CHIRP: Fish-Finding Powerhouse

The HELIX 12 CHIRP boasts all the aforementioned attributes of the HELIX 9 and 10, but make no mistake about it, this is the head of the family.  The 12.1 inch widescreen display is large and in charge and is fortified with built-in CHIRP SONAR technology. 

The HELIX 12 CHIRP uses long transmit pulses that sweep across bandwidths of frequencies that are then processed using advanced Digital Signal Processing (DSP) to result in high-resolution SONAR with increased target separation and reduced noise.  Enhanced target separation allows anglers to clearly identify game fish and baitfish, while reduced noise offers clear, sharp SONAR images.

The pulses used by the HELIX 12 CHIRP sonar along with the advanced Digital Signal Processing also allow it to obtain deeper depths while maintaining optimal resolution.

Not all forms of CHIRP are created equal. Some CHIRP products only allow the angler to utilize a pre-defined frequency bandwidth. In addition to providing pre-defined frequency bandwidths, the HELIX 12 CHIRP also allows the user to select multiple bandwidth settings to fully customize the SONAR to their unique preferences and fishing applications.

Humminbird’s HELIX 12 CHIRP also works with a wide variety of optional transducers, and it is capable of CHIRP’ing through frequencies ranging from 28 kHz to 540 kHz.
 

“Side Imaging, Down Imaging, and 360 Imaging, continue to offer game-changing advantages in finding structure and fish,” reflected Kolodzinski. “When you fold CHIRP into your electronics arsenal you have one more way to look at what’s going on down there, but it’s still only one piece of the fish-finding puzzle.”

View Online Version

For more information visit humminbird.com, contact Humminbird, 678 Humminbird Lane, Eufaula, AL 36027, or call 800-633-1468.

About Johnson Outdoors Marine Electronics, Inc.

Johnson Outdoors Marine Electronics, Inc. is a wholly owned subsidiary of Johnson Outdoors  and consists of the Humminbird®, Minn Kota® and Cannon® brands. Humminbird® is a leading global innovator and manufacturer of marine electronics products including fishfinders, multifunction displays, autopilots, ice flashers, and premium cartography products. Minn Kota® is the world’s leading manufacturer of electric trolling motors, as well as offers a complete line of shallow water anchors, battery chargers and marine accessories. Cannon® is the leader in controlled-depth fishing and includes a full line of downrigger products and accessories.

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September 28, 2015

Ranger Pro Mark Courts Wins NWT Angler of the Year Award   Consistency plays key role in angler's first AOY title      After sixteen years of professional fishing, Ranger Pro Mark Courts can finally add one of the most coveted awards in the sport to his trophy case. The Harris, Minn., native was named Cabela's National Walleye Tour (NWT) Angler of the Year following a season highlighted by consistent placement in the Top 25 at each event. Courts clinched the title at last week's NWT Championship event at Devils Lake, N.D.   With numerous tournament wins and a few second place finishes in other Angler of the Year races already to his credit, the NWT title proved very special.   "Winning means the world to me, to put it plain and simple," said Courts. "To finally get it after 16 years, it just means the world."   Courts decided to attack the 2015 schedule and become more aggressive with his tactics.  The dividends were clear and consistent.    "I fished a bit more aggressive than I typically do," said Courts. "The one thing about tournament angling is there is always decision making involved. All of these decisions have to work out and this year it did. Mentally, this sport beats (a lot of) anglers. I have really worked over the last couple of years to get my mind right when I am out on the water and not worry about what's going on around me."   Along with developing a mental toughness, Courts attributes much of his on-water success to his Ranger 620FS.   "I would say one of the biggest advantages to my new FS-Series Ranger is the ability to be efficient," said Courts. "There's tons of storage. I try to keep really organized and with the changes to the FS this year, it definitely made a difference."   In addition to the new storage capabilities, Courts gave praise to the new hull design of the 620FS, which is designed for superior stability and straight tracking.   "I'm running the 620FS with an Evinrude G2 on the back," said Courts. "That package, by far, was the best performing boat on tour this year. Whether it was big water or making long runs, that combination was a huge success. But it comes back to efficiency on the water."     Courts is finished with competitions for the year but is already looking forward to defending his title next year.    "Mark's had an amazing career and has been a key part of our pro staff for many years," said Ranger Boats President Randy Hopper.  "It's great to see him have the success he's had this year on tour. He's a phenomenal angler and great representative for our brand. Knowing his work ethic, he's already busy preparing for next year."    The Cabela's National Walleye Tour will kick off the 2016 season in April and will include 3 qualifying events and a year-end Championship.  Dates and locations should be announced soon.       About Ranger Boats Headquartered in Flippin, Ark., Ranger Boats is the nation's premier manufacturer of legendary fiberglass and aluminum fishing boats, which include series of bass, multi-species, fish 'n play, waterfowl utility 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. For more information, go to RangerBoats.com. ____________________________________________________________________________________________________

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September 14, 2015

Military Rewards Armed Forces Appreciation Program

INCENTIVE: Current and former Military Personnel can receive a factory rebate and $100 clothing certificate with the purchase of a qualifying Stratos boat package during the Stratos Boats’ “Military Rewards” Armed Forces Appreciation Program. Current and former Military Personnel may receive the incentive if they meet the eligibility requirements, as outlined below.

Stratos MilitaryRewards Incentive:

          * Factory Rebate of $2 per Engine Horsepower

          * $100 Stratos Clothing Certificate

Bonus Evinrude Incentive:

          *Additional $2 per Engine Horsepower (*If equipped with Evinrude brand outboard)

Eligibility: Anyone that meets the requirements outlined below and is currently serving in the U.S. Armed Forces, is retired from the U.S. Armed Forces or has previously served in the U.S. Armed Forces.

REQUIREMENTS:

• An Incentive will be given to any eligible purchaser of any qualifying Stratos boat package purchased from a participating authorized Stratos boat dealer and delivered to the eligible purchaser between September 1, 2015 and December 1, 2015 (see below).

• A qualifying Stratos boat package consists of a new Stratos boat, motor and trailer that has not previously been warranty registered. It includes 2016 model year and prior model year boat packages. It does not include demo/memo, prize, previously warranty registered, commercial or government use boat packages. • The qualifying Stratos boat package must be purchased from a participating authorized Stratos boat dealer.

• The qualifying Stratos boat package must be purchased between September 1, 2015 and December 1, 2015. It must also be delivered to the eligible purchaser within that timeframe. No rain checks or extensions will be allowed.

• The eligible purchaser must warranty register the qualifying Stratos boat package purchased.

• The eligible purchaser must complete and submit to Stratos Boats a Stratos Military Rewards Affidavit of Purchase within thirty (30) days of warranty registering their qualifying Stratos boat package purchased.

• No other Stratos Boat offers can be used in conjunction with this program.

• The Incentives are not redeemable for cash.

• The Incentives (factory rebate and clothing certificate) will be sent directly to the eligible purchaser approximately 2-3 weeks after Stratos Boats has received an Affidavit of Purchase

• Stratos Boats will make all determinations regarding eligibility and satisfaction of requirements relating to this Program. Stratos Boats’ determinations are final.

• NO EXCEPTIONS to this Program will be made.

A copy of this Program and the Stratos Military Rewards Affidavit of Purchase can also be found at www.stratosboats.com. If you have any questions regarding this Program, please contact Matt Raynor in the Marketing Department – 870-704-2417 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

HOW TO SUBMIT AN AFFIDAVIT OF PURCHASE: Upon warranty registration of the qualifying Stratos boat package purchased, the eligible purchaser will need to complete the attached Stratos Military Rewards Affidavit of Purchase and submit it to Stratos Boats, along with a copy of their Military ID Card or DD Form 214 for service verification, at the following address: Stratos Boats Attn: Military Rewards Program P.O. Box 179 - Flippin, AR 72634 Stratos Boats reserves the right to modify or terminate the “Stratos Military Rewards” Armed Forces Appreciation Program, in its sole discretion, at any time. Military Rewards Armed Forces Appreciation Program

AFFIDAVIT OF PURCHASE

To be eligible for an Incentive pursuant to the Stratos Boats’ “Military Rewards” Armed Forces Appreciation Program, an eligible purchaser must purchase a qualifying Stratos boat package and meet the other requirements of the Program. To receive the Incentive, this affidavit must be completed and sent to Stratos Boats, at the address noted below, along with a copy of the eligible purchaser’s Military ID Card or DD Form 214, for service verification. The eligible purchaser attests that they meet the Stratos Boats’ “Military Rewards” Program requirements, as follows:

• I purchased a qualifying Stratos boat package from a participating authorized Stratos boat dealer between September 1, 2015 and December 1, 2015.

• I am currently serving in the U.S. Armed Forces, retired from the U.S. Armed Forces or have previously served in the U.S. Armed Forces.

•I have provided a true and correct copy of my Military ID Card or DD Form 214. I hereby attest that the above statements are true and that I qualify for the Stratos Boats’ “Military Rewards” Program Incentive as indicated below.

________________________________________________ _______________________________

^{Signature of Stratos “Military Rewards” Participant                                      Date}

Incentive detail below: Stratos Military Rewards Incentive: Factory Rebate of $2 per Engine Horsepower $100 Stratos Clothing Certificate Bonus Evinrude Incentive*: Additional $2 per Engine Horsepower (*If equipped with Evinrude) Eligibility: Anyone that meets the Program requirements and is currently serving in the U.S. Armed Forces, is retired from the U.S. Armed Forces or previously served in the U.S. Armed Forces.

Please Print: Name: _______________________________________________

Address: ___________________________________________

City: ___________________________________________

State: __________ Zip: ____________

Phone Number: Dealership Name: _____________________________________

Date Boat Package Purchased: __________________________ Boat Model Purchased: _____________________

Boat Serial Number: ___________________________________

Social Security Number: _________________________________ (SS# For Check Payment Purposes Only)

Please submit this completed and signed affidavit and a copy of your Military ID Card or DD Form 214 to:

Stratos Boats

Attn: Military Rewards Program

P.O. Box 179

Flippin, AR 72634

Stratos Boats reserves the right to modify or terminate the “Stratos Military Rewards” Armed Forces Appreciation Program, in its sole discretion, at any time.

Details

September 14, 2015

Join us in Devils Lake, North Dakota on Friday and Saturday (Sept 18-19) at Graham's Island State Park. It's the last TESTRIDE of the season and we have great deals on in-stock Ranger Boats with the local dealer, Blake's Marine. Even if a purchase is years away, stop out for a free ride and check out the 620 and 621 in the FS Series as well as the 2050 Reata and a Z-series bass boat. It's always free to TESTRIDE and there's even a free gift for the first 50. To reserve a spot contact George Feder, TESTRIDE coordinator, at 255-3535 with area code 218 (so the bots can't read it). Check out the Evinrude E-TEC G2 outboard engine. 

     Where: Graham's Island State Park on Devils Lake in North Dakota

     When: Friday and Saturday, September 18 and 19 from 10 am to 3 pm

Experience TESTRIDE today. 

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September 01, 2015

New for 2016: Ranger Z518C Intracoastal   Industry-leading features, more compact design for the skinniest inshore waters      Ranger's acclaimed Intracoastal Series of boats brings tournament-ready features and performance to bass platforms designed to handle the rigors of chasing big bull reds, specks and other inshore species. Modeled after the legendary Ranger Z500C Series, the designs are equally at home in freshwater or saltwater.    The new Z518C Intracoastal brings an 18-foot-8-inch, 200-horsepower option to near-shore anglers who want the same versatility in a smaller package.     "I think this is a great addition to the Intracoastal lineup," said Ranger Pro and acclaimed saltwater guide Billy Nicholas. "I've spent a lot of time in the Z520C Intracoastal and this new 518C brings all the features and performance characteristics with a little smaller footprint.  The extra maneuverability and compact size is a real bonus for certain fisheries and conditions. It's a strong addition to the Intracoastal lineup and should fill a real niche in the market."    Available with a variety of precision-matched outboards, the new Z518C Intracoastal comes standard with a Minn Kota Rip Tide SF 80BGH trolling motor, 8-inch manual jackplate, power trim and an on-board Dual Pro 15x3 charger. The Ranger Z518C Intracoastal is highly customizable to suit the needs of the most discriminating inshore anglers, with factory-installed options like trim tabs, anchoring systems and flush-mounted electronics all available.   At the bow anglers will find built-in cup and tool holders to keep gear and other essentials organized. The bow's off-set location for mounting electronics also helps keep cumbersome trolling motor cables tucked neatly out of the way, which is especially important given that the boat can easily accommodate electronics with massive 12-inch screen sizes. In addition, the navigation lights are built into the deck of the boat, eliminating the need for a forward light post and complementing the clean, unobstructed look of the bow.   The boat's Soft Touch skid-resistant flooring provides improved aesthetics and delivers a surface that stays cooler, dries faster and is easier on the knees and feet than traditional non-skid applications. Integrated measuring boards and tool holders flank both sides of the front deck step inside the cockpit of the Ranger Z518C Intracoastal, providing a centrally located workstation.   Underneath the padded front casting deck, the port and center rod storages feature a lined, gel-coated interior that are linked to the patent-pending Power Ventilation Rod Storage (PVRS) System, which circulates air from a blower throughout the storage boxes to help dry out tackle and equipment after a busy day on the water. With room for rods as long as 8 feet, the rod storages also include integrated tackle management features and improved access from outside of the boat. There is also tackle storage and an integrated cooler located just forward of the driver's console.     Available in single- and dual-console configurations, the driver's console can accommodate large-screen electronics in the dash without the need for exterior mounts or brackets. The boat also comes standard with an adjustable driver's seat built on slides to accommodate anglers of all heights.   Other standout features include a remote drain plug, divided livewell and a battery selector switch which allows all electrical draw to be cut off with the flip of a switch when the boat is parked and also allows anglers to select which battery is used for starting in the event that the cranking battery is ever drained.   The Z518C Intracoastal rides down the road on its own custom-built aluminum RangerTrail® tandem-axle trailer with matching fiberglass fenders. Not just for good looks, the matching fenders make it easy to load the boat and help protect the boat when trailering. Designed and built in the same factory to the same, exacting standards as all Ranger boats, RangerTrail® trailers are custom aligned with individually balanced wheels, equipped with torsion axle suspensions and locking, swing-away tongues. The trailer also features LED lights, aluminum wheels, retractable tie downs, a center swing jack stand, and Ranger's COOL Hub® lubrication system as standard equipment.   2016 RANGER Z518C INTRACOASTAL Overall Hull Length:             18 feet, 8 inches Beam:                                     94 inches Maximum HP:                        200 Engine Shaft Length:            20 inches Inside Depth:                         20 inches Fuel Capacity:                       37 gallons Total Persons/Motor/Gear:  1,265 lbs. Approx. Boat Weight:           1,550 lbs. (single console); 1,575 lbs. (dual console) Trailer GVWR:                        CF3725     About Ranger Boats Headquartered in Flippin, Ark., Ranger Boats is the nation's premier manufacturer of legendary fiberglass and aluminum fishing boats, which include series of bass, multi-species, fish 'n play, waterfowl utility 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. For more information, go to RangerBoats.com. ____________________________________________________________________________________________________