Matching a flat Shallow Stalker 17 2010 against a modified vee Shallow Stalker V-20 2009 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 — Shallow Stalker 17 2010 at 16,8 ft versus Shallow Stalker V-20 2009 at 19,8 ft. At 85 lbs and 108 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.
Both boats share a closely matched power ceiling — 90 hp for the Shallow Stalker 17 2010 and 90 hp for the Shallow Stalker V-20 2009. Real-world performance will come down more to which motor is actually bolted on, its load at the time, and whether it's a 4-stroke or 2-stroke setup. Fuel capacity breaks the other way: the Shallow Stalker 17 2010 carries 28 gallons versus 4 gallons in the Shallow Stalker V-20 2009. 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 Shallow Stalker V-20 2009 is rated for 6 passengers, while the Shallow Stalker 17 2010 caps at 5. If you're regularly pulling extended family or a group of friends onto the water, the extra seats on the Shallow Stalker V-20 2009 could be the deciding factor.
Bottom line: Choose the Shallow Stalker V-20 2009 if your priority is putting more people on the water — it handles 6 passengers and at 19,8 ft it has the deck room to back that rating up comfortably. The Shallow Stalker 17 2010 is the smarter pick if you want a lighter, easier-to-trailer boat rated for 5 that costs less to run day-to-day.