15-17 is marginal on length. Not that you can't use one that size for a long time, but you have the potential to upgrade to a larger boat for sure. Because of that, I'd probablylook for the best deal in a used boat.

There are lots of good boats, but I believe the Woolridge has the best outboard design with their tunnel hull. They are built in Seattle and you can stop by the factory to see how they are built. If you are interested in something a little different, you should take a look at a Rogue Marine Stealth. It is a hybrid drift boat/sled. You can row it or use it with a small jet.

The boat shows are so close that you should take a look then even if you might buy a used one.