Matching a modified vee Fisher 1700 2009 against a deep vee Fisher Hawk 170 Sport 2008 means you're likely deciding between two genuinely different on-water experiences. Hull type shapes everything from ride quality and fuel burn to dock handling and resale trajectory.

On paper these two are close siblings in the size department — Fisher 1700 2009 at 17,0 ft versus Fisher Hawk 170 Sport 2008 at 17,0 ft. At 92 lbs and 14 lbs respectively, both sit in a similar weight class — either should pair comfortably with most mid-size SUVs and half-ton trucks, though always confirm your specific tow rating with the motor added.

The power gap is worth calling out. Rated to 150 hp, the Fisher Hawk 170 Sport 2008 has a 75-hp advantage over the Fisher 1700 2009's 75-hp ceiling — enough to notice on acceleration and at cruising speed, particularly with a full passenger load. Fuel capacity breaks the other way: the Fisher 1700 2009 carries 18 gallons versus 3 gallons in the Fisher Hawk 170 Sport 2008. On a lake day that's negligible, but for coastal cruising or long reservoir runs the extra range matters.

For family outings this is probably the sharpest distinction between the two. The Fisher Hawk 170 Sport 2008 is rated for 5 passengers, while the Fisher 1700 2009 caps at 4. If you're regularly pulling extended family or a group of friends onto the water, the extra seats on the Fisher Hawk 170 Sport 2008 could be the deciding factor.

At this size, power-to-weight ratio matters more than outright horsepower. The Fisher Hawk 170 Sport 2008 comes in at 0 lbs per hp versus 1 lbs per hp for the Fisher 1700 2009. The lower the ratio the more explosive the acceleration — meaningful on a short RIB where bursts of speed, quick planing, and agility in surf or tight waterways define the experience.