I'm a Wildy whore... I have a Wilderness Aspire 105, and a Pungo 120 right now. I mostly just like to paddle, but I've done some fishing in all my boats. Just sold off my "big" boats. Had a Wildy Tsunami 14.5 and Commander 140 until recently.
If you're a big guy and want room for you and your gear, stability, and comfort, the Commanders are great. Perfect or fishing platforms outside of the ocean. Throw a cooler and a milk crate in it and go.
As to equipment... You don't need much gear. Decent paddle is important. Not a $500 job or anything. My favorite is the Aqua-bound Manta Ray fiberglass 2-piece. Plenty light and can be found for about $100. Don't waste your money on the $30-40 paddles. I've broken 2 now just digging hard in water. They're fine for a spare though if you prefer that over an emergency paddle. Most of the other stuff is just for show. I keep 2 paddles, and some safety gear, plus some dry bags and whatever gear the trip/fishing condition requires. You don't need everything for every boat if you go out in groups though. Like in a group we only keep one spare paddle, pump, float, and a couple throw lines split among the yaks.
Decent paddle with lanyard,
vest,
poles,
waterproof boxes, bags
anchor,
paddle float,
bilge pump or at least a sponge&bailing bucket,
throw rope,
lights,
IFAK
fishing gear, food stuff, camping stuff etc...