as far as I can tell there Isnt alot of difference between the majority of patron powers i.e ranged attack, snipe, hold and pet...the odd one out (as you pointed out) being Mako's water spout.
I suppose it depends on the concept of your character. If your a geek like me you will have a little back story to your character and select what patron best fits in. otherwise I suppose its a choice of what powers you feel will work best for you.
Sorry I cant offer more than that 
I'd say go for Ghost Widow, because if you have the cones Water Sprout may knock the mob out of the cones range.
Ghost also gives you a nice little -acc debuff to go with your defense and with the snipe+focus combo you could probaly take out a minion before they even get to you then just scrap/placate/hold (if you get it) to finish whats left.
And besides if its the hold I think it is, it just looks great 
If it really comes down to the question "snipe or water spout" the answer is quite simple: Take Mako´s water spout. This power may knock enemies out of your cones... but let´s be honest: When you need that water spout you are most likely in no situation to line up enemies for a close combat cone anyway. And this whirly baby can save your six, while you will find that the snipe animation lasts ages (double the time of blaster/corruptor snipe) and the damage is quite underwhelming.
So, if you are in a situation like me, and Ghost Widow and Captain Mako likewise fit your concept, do yourself a favour and pick Mako. You won´t regret it.
If it has eyes, you can blind it, if it has blood, you can make it bleed, if it has a mouth, you can make it scream.
Thanks to everyone
A convincing argument for Mako has been made, and I think I will use water spout more as a panic button than an all out attack. Mako also fits quite nicely with my stalker as a concept (Chef d'Aubergine could make shark fin soup?). Also, I like attacks with added extras, and a snipe doesn't really cut it as claws already has a rather nice ranged attack in the form of focus.
Once again, thanks!
Right, I've been doing some research as I have to pick a patron soon. However, I am undecided between Captain Mako and Ghost Widow (sorry if someone has already posted this, searched and didn't see anything). I have read the plaques, these forums and the US forums, and talked to other stalkers but I am still really torn up. I suppose it really comes down to Moonbeam or Water Spout. I'm a claws/ninjitsu (mainly PvE), so in my position what would you take and why?