River jet Boat size question

[ultimatepredator]

I have a 1656 xpress side console with a Yamaha 40/30 2 stroke. It is typically just myself and the dog. I have more than enough room and it runs upriver about 20mph. It's not a speed demon but it gets me anywhere I would like to go.
2 people on the boat is fine to fish. That 3rd person makes it a little tighter but everybody still has room to move around and the boat is completely stable.
When I have 2 other people onboard the extra weight makes the boat a slug and sits much lower.
If you are by yourself and you get hung up on rocks while drifting the 16ft is that much lighter and can be moved easier by yourself(dogs are no help at all at that time). On and off the trailer is easy too.
Ultimately, you do what is right for you. Talk to Mayberry in port Murray. See if you can go for a test ride. Or maybe someone here will take you for a run on different setups.
Also, on the river YOU WILL hit rocks and things so keep that in mind. Buying a used boat to learn the river is not a terrible idea. And you can always upgrade.
If I were to buy new it would be a forward center console 1660 with a 60/40 and that would be perfect for my use.
Good luck