best recording format for broadcast/cable tv?

I'm trying to make a decision on what prosumer video camera to get. I'll be using it for a TV fishing show and will also be using CS5.
In researching what other TV shows use, Deadliest catch uses a Sony HVR-Z5U, that records in HDV. Pawn Stars uses a Panasonic AG-HVX200A, using DVCPRO. I have yet to find anyone using a camera for a TV show that records in AVCHD format. Is there a reason why? Is HDV and DVCPRO superior to AVCHD? Is there alot of loss when rencoding AVCHD?