All great points concerning side decks.
So my take-a-way from this is basically, we tend to overcome and adapt. Although there are preferences which are based on personal tastes, and which may dictate which kind you ultimately get, whichever type of side decks you have, you just work with it. It's all doable. I didn't get the impression that there was an overwhelming negative response from either camp. So we'll have to charter both if possible and see what we like!
Regarding aft deck space, I don't fish but might do so if the opportunity presented itself. But is not something I would probably do as the sole reason for being on the boat. More importantly to us is the ability to sit and enjoy the view with a Margarita or Martini.