Thanks for all the advice guys, I appreciate it. However I was looking more for advice on specific options (guards, rails, steps, water-pumps for wash downs, etc...) that you have found to be helpful/useful.
As for make/model I'm leaning toward Northwest Jet Boats out of Pasco (19 foot inboard pump, 10-12 degree bottom). Although I'll take a look at Thor and Motion Marine since your reviews have been so good.