tenn,
with your size, a couple buddies and some gear i would go with the 17 foot models. look for wider bottom "wide guide" usually starting at about 54 inches. this set up, will be easier on the sticks, but still haul a load. i would definately go aluminum, if you can. i own a 1986 fishrite 16 foot wide guide "aluminum" and its still going strong. as far as accessories you could go on for ever. if your gonna run a kicker, go with the rear side mount anchor system with pulleys. at a minimum the front seats should be adjustable forward and rearward for proper wieght dislacement. my boat has a rope seat that seems to make rowing a little more comfortable and your butt sticks to the rope. a fish box, usually mounted under the seat, is a standard on the westcoast. i agree with the previous post, that you should check the hull for "tunnel hull" it is pretty obvious when you see it. it usually means the boat has been on the rocks while loaded with people and gear. check the chine "the raised portion on top of the location the side and bottom meet. pay close attention to the places that the chine rides on the trailer as this is bearing the boat weight on all those rough roads. as far as brands go i dont know whats made on the east coast. out here on the west coast i would say that willy is probably making the best driftboat. hope this helps, just the humble opinion of a regular guy "not a guide".