Overview
The Rage R22 can handle big-water swells or skinny creeks with equal aplomb. But indulge me for a moment while I rave about its handling. Get up to speed and crank the wheel hard over, and you’re headed in the opposite direction in a flash. This is one of the most aggressive-handling hulls I’ve ever run. You may not need that to catch fish, but it sure makes for a fun ride en route to your favorite fishing hole.
Engine
The Rage R22 features Campion’s second-generation Apex hull, a convex-V that utilizes expanded high-pressure zones for rapid planing, a higher, softer ride and improved economy. Apex 2 ups the ante with Kevlar reinforcement and computer-tweaked geometry. With a 300 hp Mercury Pro XS, our test boat leapt onto plane in 3.4 seconds, passed 30 mph in just over 6 seconds, and peaked at 56.7 mph. At 27 mph, fuel consumption averaged 7.5 gph.
Interior and Accessories
Back to fishing. The deep foredeck is all-business, with a standard Minn Kota Terranova trolling motor at the bow, Humminbird Helix 7 Chirp fish finder, socket for an adjustable leaning post, and four in-floor stowage compartments, one ready with a bait bucket. Retractable straps are ready to lock down rods. An in-sole compartment below the walk-through stows up to 12 rods.
The frameless-bottom, compound-curve windshield looks sportboat-chic. At the helm, a dash brow prevents glare on yet another Humminbird display. In the port console, a lockable glove box, with a trio of tackle boxes, is tucked directly below.
Learn more about the 300-hp Mercury outboard that powered this boat!
Twin pedestal seats with flip-down backrests are set behind the helm seats. There’s a central stowage compartment below and twin stowage compartments flanking each seat, inside the raised, wraparound perimeter. Tying into the 2-foot-4-inch-deep, full-width casting deck aft, that perimeter walk-around provides unobstructed, elevated access for working a frisky fish. The 39-gallon livewell fills to the top, preventing bait injury from water sloshing. Custom EVA matting ensures you won’t slip.
Styling? It matches the performance, with an upscale vibe not often seen in this category.
How We Tested
- Engine: Mercury Pro XS 300
- Prop: Mercury Tempest Plus 14.625″ x 19″ 3-blade stainless steel
- Gear Ratio: 1.75:1 Fuel Load: 19 gal. Crew Weight: 395 lb.
High Points
- Superior handling and performance from the Apex 2 hull.
- Standard Humminbird display in the bow is complete with a dedicated power source.
- Port console includes padded nook for smartphones, a 12-volt outlet and USB inputs.
Low Points
- Small stowage-compartment lids in the bow and stern lack gas struts. These must be held open or you risk marring the adjoining gelcoat.
- Currently, there is no way to secure the walk-through windshield when open; Campion indicates this should be changed in production.
Toughest Competitor
Ranger’s 2080MS Angler ($63,095 with Mercury 250 XL) can fish for just about everything in just about every body of water. Layout is similar, with a wraparound windshield for protection from the elements, a spacious forward casting deck, and similar main cockpit seating and amenities.
Pricing and Specs
| Price: | $83,594 (base with test power, without freight, dealer prep or trailer) |
|---|---|
| LOA: | 22’9″ |
| Beam: | 8′6″ |
| Draft: | 1’1″ |
| Displacement: | 4,000 lb. |
| Transom Deadrise: | 19 degrees |
| Bridge Clearance: | 4’0″ |
| Fuel Capacity: | 60 gal. |
| Max Horsepower: | 350 |
| Available Power: | Single gasoline outboards to 350 hp |
Speed, Efficiency, Operation
Campion Marine – Kelowna, British Columbia; 250-765-8883; campionboats.com
