MsVegas,
If you are going to paddle any distance, you really want to go with the lightest paddle you can afford. Believe me, at the end of the day you won't regret it. Pick the right one to begin with because if you don't you will own two paddles eventually.
I really like my carbon fiber shaft /carbon fiber blade Aqua Bound touring blade paddle. Touring blades are not for power, buy they cut through the water very easily. If I was fishing the HBT or a lot of open saltwater, I would want something with a bigger blade for power against wind and tide. Unless you are a body builder keep the blade size in mind when you buy. Too much blade and you will feel tired quicker from trying to stroke the bigger blade through the water. My paddle was $200. For $25 or so less, you can get the same shaft but non-carbon blades. It's maybe two ounces more in weight, but think about how many strokes you take even in a three mile paddle. Aqua Bound makes a good paddle for the money. They were slightly less than the Werner's or Bending Branches.
Next size matters. My first paddle was too short for my big boat. That was the store's fault. You need a paddle long enough to comfortably dip into the water based on your height, boat width, and angle of paddle. I tend to keep my paddle at a lower angle so I need a longer paddle to clear the side grips and paddle holder on my Tarpon. Someone with a straight down stroke would find the same paddle too long. Also, if you have small hands, Aqua Bound models come in a smaller shaft which might be more comfortable in your hands. Also stick to the straight shaft models. They limit hand position. Unless it's the perfect fit for your shoulder width it will feel awkward.
In closing, I took some friends sea kayaking in Seattle last year. The outfitter gave my co-horts some paddles in the $125 range, but he let my try a $400 Bending Branch which was so light you felt like the wind would blow it away if you let go. It was wonderful. Weight does matter. It might feel light in the store, but think about holding it for an hour. I actually took my kitchen scales to the store to help me determine the difference between different models and brands.
Dick's has some decent paddles, but nothing I would buy for my only paddle. If it is at all possible support your local stores: Appomattox and Wild River. If all we had was Dicks and Sports Authority, kayak fishing wouldn't be where it is today in Tidewater.
Tom