Getting ready to kick off boat #1.   Need some assistance on what to build.

I live in Michigan and plan to float the rivers out here only.   I'm looking to carry three people (myself and two people) plus gear for a day trip (translation:  beer and sandwiches/grill!).  We currently use 8' pontoon boats to float to spots and then shore fish.   I expect that a majority of our fishing will be the same method (float and stop) - hence the need (I believe) for lower sides to get in and out easier.  I'd also like the option of mounting a motor for the occasional trip up the bigger rivers around me.

I have a copy of Roger Fletcher's book and have read it several times (great book as most everyone else has stated - learn something new every time I read it).  I also purchased a copy of Don Hill's 17' Fly Fisher.   However, as I read more on this site and elsewhere and study the Hill plans, I'm concerned that the Hill boat is too much of a McKenzie style (high sides and too much rocker) for the rivers I'm planning on fishing.  Lately, I've been considering Spira's 16' Yukon design which he states is more of a "midwest" (less rocker/lower sides) design.   I've contacted a member on this site who has been very helpful in answering my initial questions about Spira's plans (thanks again Mike) and built a great example of a boat for my area.  

With all of that being said, I have the issue of what course to take.  Should I try to modify Hill's design to lower the sides and reduce the rocker to better suit the Michigan rivers, purchase the Spira plans (requiring far less modification), or some other solution?  While Jason's Kingfisher is a huge drool-inducing masterpiece, I believe it is better suited to be boat #2 for me.

Appreciate any advice provided.  I'm anxious to get started.