I'm not able to help with the seat, but I bought a 12' Wilderness Tarpon model a few years back. I could have bought some cheaper boats, but the good seat and light weight sold me on this one.
I don't see the need for the fancy paddles, especially for what you and I do. There are plenty of $30-$50 options that work fine. I would suggest a rod holder and a paddle leash. For the guys who paddle long range trips of 30-40 miles in a day might need the expensive ones.
http://www.academy.com/shop/pdp/magellan-outdoors-no-limits-kayak-paddle#repChildCatid=3918069http://www.academy.com/shop/pdp/attwood-heavy-duty-adjustable-rod-holder#repChildCatid=760754http://www.academy.com/shop/pdp/yak-gear-baja-36-paddle-leash#repChildCatid=1027304There are a couple of small lakes where we use them, but mostly in local rivers. We get together with a group, park one truck at the take out point and put in 5-15 miles up stream and float back fishing along the way. No white water here, but a few shallows and rocks to maneuver around.
