I'm looking to play with the waves w/o major tricks. I've looked into
several boats and have narrowed it down to the Wilderness Riot, at
9'6". The main reason is that I'm a large 6'1", 220 pound guy and
other boats are too small.

Anyways I read the Riot is quite good but that it doesn't "carve the
waves" too good. What's that, and what do you think of my choice?

Thank you in advance

I'd look into a used whitewater boat. These boats can be very
inexpensive. Avoid boats with a lot of rocker (like the Overflow) -
I'd look for an "X," "RPM," "Whiplash," or "Godzilla" - something like
that - 9' long, relatively flat bottom. I am the same size as you and
fit nicely in any of these. They would be fun in the surf.

Randy