I have to agree about Alumaweld...I have really enjoyed my 19ft Stryker with the Sportjet. One of my buddies has a Duckworth and the other has a Thunderjet. They are both happy with theirs. If you want a river/salt/lake boat, they are the best all around type to get.

It really comes down to what is the best deal you can get. I saw some really excellent deals on a Thunderjet at the show. It was 19ft and fully equipped with everything but the kicker for around 19,000. Little things like stern rails for mounting pole holders and downriggers can be a consideration. I like the seating to be two captains chairs in the front and two bench seats with storage underneath and facing each other..So..to answer your question, it pays to look around and really consider what the best set up would be for the type of fishing you enjoy. I will say that buying that boat was one of the best things I ever spent money on. you're buddy won't regret buying either, in my opinion. FYI- I fish rivers and Seiku and it handled the big water just fine. My buddy took his 18ft Thunderjet across the bar and went out into the ocean (on a good day) and it handled it fine.