If you're talking about a raft then I'd agree with the previous guy, they lack the ability to hold in the current. They are a fun way to get from fishing hole to fishing hole, though.
I've heard a lot of good things about those inflatable pontoon "cataraft" things. A couple friends helicoptered with gear and cataraft into some pretty out of the way steelhead water in BC and they raved about it. They say if you get a big one they're roomy, stable in white water, and a heck of a lot of fun. I don't know if you could hot shot with one, though. I'd imagine it'd be hard to beat a drift boat for that.
With whatever you decide, just be safe, you and your boys'll have a blast!