With the 2004-2008 F-150's you have a large interior, strong frame, awesome tow and payload capacity. For the items you want you are probably looking at a Lariat trim or FX4. I am personally looking for a FX4 or Lariat, under 60k, for under 17k. That means I am stuck with an extended cab. I was looking for a crew cab, but didn't want a 5.5' box and a 6.5' box is a HUGE truck. I have about a dozen or so trucks on my list, just waiting for tax returns.
Anyone want to buy an Audi?
That being said, I am in the same boat as you. I need a truck for around the house stuff, and I want to do more fishing this year. The F150's do have the electric transfercase option which is really nice, usually only in the xlt+ trims. Leather is harder to find than sports cloth, and sunroofs aren't very common (I kind of want one with a sunroof).
The 2004 and 2005's have the spark plug issues with the 3 valves, 2006 is when ford starting putting the 1 piece plugs in AFAIK. 2005's have injectors that sometimes stick open and lock up the engine, but ford extended the warranty on the injectors to 11 years or 120k.
I"ve also looked at Chevrolet trucks and some SUV's. The problem for me with an SUV is hauling stuff for the house. Appliances or lumber, engine stands, etc..all hard in an SUV, why I am settled on a truck. Most of the F150 guys in the 04-08 range are getting 14-16mpg city, and 16-19mpg highway with properly maintained and tuned vehicles. Some get 12 all day every day, but I think a heavy foot and big tires play a role on that.
Good luck in your search, if I see anything out there, I'll send a link to you Matt.