Fishallspec,
I've got a Campion 542, it's my first boat, so no real reference, but I love it. Campion seems like a great boat for both the salt chuck and the fresh water. Little heavier to trailer I image than aluminum, but on a tandum tailer I don't even know it's behind me. Mind you a 350 Chev sucks fuel regardless. On the water it tends to porpoise at speed but my wife and kids like the cuddy and canvas to get out of the cold. Actually my wife really enjoys the trip now, she get cold easily, and a little heater keeps the cabin warm in the winter or on cold days when needed.
The cuddy is convienient to lock up your gear, or for the kids to watch a dvd or nap on a longer trip. I don't know how the center console is set up, but storing gear in the cuddy beats hauling it to the car and into the garage.
The free board is confortable for me to fish and still keeps the kids locked in safely. I really like the toe board you can hook your boots under to keep steady when fishing in rough seas. (Sounds stupid but I really found this a great feature)
I found the wiring easy to access when adding electronics, and the styling is good for both fishing and skiing or tubing. We've got a 115ph merc outboard (2 stroke) and although noisy, it's enough power for my needs. All around a good family boat, but that may not be what you are looking for.
Take this with a grain of salt, as mentioned, it's my first boat and the other guys on this site are more experienced, but I thought I'd put in my two cents worth.
Regadless what you buy, good luck and good boating. They tell me the happiest two days of you life are when you buy a boat and when you sell it. I hope to die only being happy once.
Best Regards
Scooter
