Oz,
As a non-Ranger owner I am a very happy and satisfied participant in FLW Outdoors events. The BFL offers a great opportunity for Anglers or Co-Anglers to fish a well-run circuit on lakes that you want to fish. This past year was the first year on the boater's side and I felt no pressure to buy a Ranger nor did I feel looked down upon for not owning one. Would I like to be in a new Z-22 Ranger with a Yamaha, you bet, but for now I fish out of my piece of crap and hung with the big boys by quailifing for the regional championship. Not to mention the new BASS/Triton relationship (with Brunswick in the mix of course) is no different. The difference in the trails; FLW Outdoors is a family friendly operation that cares about the fisherman and makes them feel wanted and appreciated. Believe me, FLW Outdoors will be the elite tournament organization within the next couple years. By the way, I had a friend to compete in the new BASS weekend series and even qualified for their regional championship..He is a Triton guy but will be back to the BFL next year. No competion...FLW knows how to do this, afterall they are the largest tournament organization on the plantet and things are only getting better. Check out the increased payback schedule for the 2006 season....impressive...I hope you make an informed decision and good luck.
Zach Kirby