cameras and kayaking - need help choosing a new camera

Thanks to all of you for quick, detailed, specific responses.
I appreciate your posted photo examples and comparisons of the various models. 
I don't like the short notice that the battery is about to die.  That would be really frustrating after just heading out and the camera dies after the first or second photo - somewhat like the exasperation of batteries failing in fish finder upon arrival to locale at start of fishing.  Wide angle is important esp. with the comment of handheld close-ups, and I fish late and I know I'll be shooting pics. in darker conditions (taking photos definitely takes a back seat to fishing!).  Maybe "my" ideal camera doesn't exist?  I'll check out the Panasonic and search past posts.  I still feel Olympus is suspect.
Anyone shoot pics. from a vinyl pouch?  What's the quality of the photos?
If you have other ideas or have a new post about this I'd appreciate your comments.
Tom