Jighead :

Good info in the above above posts .

I have used all types of boats including the following , pirouge , jon boats { 10-16 ' and diff. weights} , pond master type , wood barge, canoe , float tube and paddle boat. Each one has its pros and cons. It really depends on your needs and budget . One point not mentioned above to think about is visability from the boat. It is hard to see the water from a float tube , canoe or pirouge . Pond master type and some jon boats offer good vision if you can stand in them. So keep in mind your visual angle to the water as well as boat stability and the other points above in your choice . ewest