I am planning on buying a small Jon boat. 12ft is the biggest I can handle as I am putting it in the bed of my truck for some inaccessible lakes etc... I am looking at a 1232 but I have heard mixed reviews saying wider is better or skinnier is better for long tails. What are the pros and cons of each? Also the max capacity is 480 lbs. I would say at most worst case I would have a total of 600lbs in gear and people/dog. Am I stupid for doing this? Thank you for any insight.

For that load I would suggest 42". It'll still be light, but you'll enjoy that extra width for stability and the load. I've seen north LA hunter with a 10hp lt on his 1242 and it ran well with me and him.
Search "midget boat" if you want more info on it.