Hey Andy,

Creek Company makes an excellent boat for the $$$ and you can't really go wrong with them. Their customer service is also top notch.

One thing to look for is an Aluminum frame to save weight and resist corrosion. Another thing is the seat. Make sure you go with a boat that has a molded plastic seat. The fabric seats can become uncomfortable You will be sitting in it for long periods of time.

An ODC 816 is a great starter boat at a great price and has the features I mentioned above.

I don't have much experience with the TU Colorado. I know some of the guys who read this forum own them so they should be able to answer you question about them.

MT