One boat I've wanted to build for similar use is this one: http://www.noahsmarine.com/items.asp?Cc=JW%2DCS

We have lots of small to mid size rivers and I usually take my solo canoe on them, but when it's chilly out, being out in the open isn't always as nice as being inside a cockpit. This design is basically the same as the QCC kayak that's the same length, QCC doesn't make kayaks anymore, they were bought out, but we've used a couple around here and they work really well on those waters, handle nice and have lots of room for their length. You don't often see them built on this forum, never really understood why, the designer is very well respected. Guess they aren't as well publicized.

Bill H.