I've owned both driftboats and pontoons.

Driftboat is more universally useful. If you'll have company, and want to fish larger rivers, get a DB. Makes a much more stable fishing platform, and much more comfortable ride. Not much is less fun than being the only one in a pontoon boat when you are surrounded by DBs or sleds.

If you're by yourself, or fishing only small rivers, get a pontoon.

Or do what I do. Use the DB when you can, and the PT when you have to. Prices have really come down due to increased competition since I bought mine.

A good compromise might be a larger model raft type pontoon. Could float larger rivers and still float in low water. Never seen one that allows the comfort, room, etc. of a drift boat.

GS