This 1996 Ranger Sport R72 carries one of the coolest stories in modern tournament fishing—and now it’s been brought back to life with a complete restoration.

In 2022, college angler Louis Monetti won the College Singles National Championship, earning a spot in the 2023 Bassmaster Classic in Knoxville. He did it all out of this very 1996 Ranger, which at the time was in rough shape: torn seats, outdated electronics, no Spot-Lock, no LiveScope—just grit, determination, and a love for fishing. That run to the Classic, and a Top-25 finish in this boat, proved you don’t need a brand-new rig with $20k in electronics to compete at the highest level.

After upgrading to a newer boat, Louis and his dad decided this Ranger was too special to let go. They chose to keep it in the family and hauled it all the way from New Jersey to Volunteer Boats for a full, ground-up restoration.

Over several months, this Ranger R72 was completely transformed. Almost every component was restored or replaced, including:

• Fresh metal flake and new gelcoat
• Fully refurbished interior and systems
• Brand new Marine Master trailer to finish out the package

Today, the Monetti Ranger looks better than it did in the ‘90s and is ready for many more years on the water. The family picked it up and headed home in a like-new piece of history—and everyone at Volunteer Boats was honored to be part of the journey.

We're proud to showcase another stunning restoration completed by our talented team at Volunteer Boats! Congratulations to Jeremy Hurd on upgrading his 2011 Ranger Z518 with a brand new 2025 Mercury Pro XS and a host of custom improvements. We can't wait to see the new wheels he’s adding next!

Restoration Highlights:

• Brand New Mercury 200 Pro XS – Installed for maximum performance and reliability
• Fiberglass Wet Sanding & Refinishing – Professionally removed oxidation and restored the hull’s original shine
• Major Fiberglass Repairs – Addressed and repaired structural and cosmetic issues for a like-new finish
• New Rubrail Installation – Enhanced protection and a fresh, clean look
• New Carpet & Trim – Complete interior refresh for comfort and style
• Front Deck Padding – Added for all-day casting comfort
• Fuel Tank Mold Removal – Thoroughly cleaned for safety and longevity
• Oxidation Removal on Hull – Returned the hull to its original luster
• New Front Deck Rod Straps – Secure and convenient rod storage
• All New Ranger Decals – Removed old graphics and installed factory-fresh decals for a crisp, updated appearance
• New Trailer Step Non-Skid – Improved safety and accessibility

Whether you’re looking to restore your boat or upgrade to the latest technology, trust the experts at Volunteer Boats to deliver top-quality craftsmanship and attention to detail. Contact us today to discuss your next restoration project!

Finished a two month restoration on this 27 year old 1997 Bullet 20XD. Another excellent job by our team here at Volunteer Boats!

• New flake & Gelcoat on top cap.
• Wet sanded & Buffed everything below top cap
• New rub rail
• New Bullet decals on sides, bow, and back.
• New carpet
• New aluminum lids
• New latches
• Pulled fuel tank for all new pumps & valves
• New acrylic dash panel
• New non skid
• New front and back windshields
• New Bow panel
• Corrected wiring in dash
• Serviced Engine
• Repaired and painted lower unit
• New toggle boots for switches  
• New trailer lighting
• New trailer coiled hooks