Matching a modified vee Starcraft Marine Fishmaster 196 2011 against a pontoon Starcraft Marine Stardeck 180 Fish 2012 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 — Starcraft Marine Fishmaster 196 2011 at 19,8 ft versus Starcraft Marine Stardeck 180 Fish 2012 at 18,8 ft. At 143 lbs and 155 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 200 hp, the Starcraft Marine Fishmaster 196 2011 has a 150-hp advantage over the Starcraft Marine Stardeck 180 Fish 2012's 50-hp ceiling — enough to notice on acceleration and at cruising speed, particularly with a full passenger load.
For family outings this is probably the sharpest distinction between the two. The Starcraft Marine Fishmaster 196 2011 is rated for 9 passengers, while the Starcraft Marine Stardeck 180 Fish 2012 caps at 8. If you're regularly pulling extended family or a group of friends onto the water, the extra seats on the Starcraft Marine Fishmaster 196 2011 could be the deciding factor.
Bottom line: Choose the Starcraft Marine Fishmaster 196 2011 if your priority is putting more people on the water — it handles 9 passengers and at 19,8 ft it has the deck room to back that rating up comfortably. The Starcraft Marine Stardeck 180 Fish 2012 is the smarter pick if you want a lighter, easier-to-trailer boat rated for 8 that costs less to run day-to-day.