Jim,
In my opinion, the Redfish would serve you well in all areas mentioned except paddling upstream. Not to say it won't work, but the wider, flatter kayaks just don't cut through the water as well. On the other hand, a kayak that would paddle much easier upstream would have: more difficult entry, less leg room, etc., because it is a narrower kayak that would paddle better upstream. Personally, I would love the Redfish. I would get the longer version for more efficient paddling including your upstream paddle. Think about paddling upstream THEN fishing back to the car. That way you do the upstrean paddle before you are tired and want to go home.
Gregg