Hello Brian,
You seem pretty sure you want a Hobie...?
They are proven and have their place in the line up for sure.
They get from A to B. Most guys who have them like them.
Hobie's do NOT excel in the surf.
You said you are a waterman (surfer, swimmer, fisherman) do you plan to surf launch much?? Where do you plan to fish most often?
You also mentioned speed...
Do yourself a huge favor and test drive your Hobie of choice...and then test drive a couple KAYAKS.
*I can let you test paddle a Tarpon t160i and a Prowler P13 just for shits N giggles. I'll be on the water this weekend.
Shoot me a PM if your interested?