The best piece of advice is try as many kayaks as you can. I fished for years out of a Pelican 11'6" sit in. It was a real workhorse. Bought a sit on top with an elevated seat. Did not care much of it at all. I wouldn't rule out a canoe. I have a 14' Old Town Guide series that I can stand up in and paddle. They make Solo canoes that you paddle from the middle much like a sit on yak.