I have a 2001, 17.5' Smoker-Craft and I like it a lot. Bought it used 2 years ago.It is a nice deep boat and I've taken it through some pretty nasty stuff here in the south sound anyway. Modified V hull so very stable platform when fishing.
Haven't seen any sign of leaking rivets and I've pounded some waves pretty hard with it.
Had a 12 Lund that was also a great boat.
BUT, if I were shopping today I'd be looking at Hewes.http://www.hewescraft.com/2007/sportsman/index.html
Looks like the smallest they make is 16'.
It's the dominent sport boat you see in S.E. Alaska, at least from what I've seen walking the docks up there.
Welded construction and a lot of deck space to length ratio.
I'd add it too your options if I were you.