I purchased an Ascend 10FS - Sit In several years ago. I fish the Sandy Run.
Many trips are spent navigating some very tight spots in creeks. The vessel
weights about 50 lbs. When lifting yaks onto the top of vehicles, there can
be a big difference between 10's & 12's. Other features to consider: Is the
rear compartment large enough for a milk crate ? I think that Sit Ins provide
a lower center of gravity (stability) vs. SOT's since my feet rest on the hull.
Perhaps #1 feature is the metal frame seat in a +$450 yak vs. a hard molded
plastic seat in lower cost yaks. Fishing for the first hour or so is ok......the
removable frame seats are really worth it. One other consideration....how much
equipment are you going to be surrounded with ? There seems to be many extremes.
I carry a tackle bag with 2-3 3600 plastic tackle boxes, couple of poles, pliers,
PFD, anchors, lights, and something to drink. My lake boat has most of the
electronics etc.

I still use my 2 man Pelican that I got for half price ($200) at Academy during a scratch & dent sale. Stable as can be, an indestructible tank on even rocky river rapids and I've caught tons of fish from it. I even use it from the jetties to paddle out shark baits. It's been dragged up and down that granite and still going strong. Can't beat it for the price.