Not got any current favourite makers as my well beloved bodhrans (a big one and a little one) are now 25 years old and still going strong despite a lot of playing.

I would recommend getting a tuneable one if you can afford it. They save a lot of hassle in sessions etc as you don't have to share your ale or find the hot air dryer in the loos - so long as you don't loose your key. Mine have good old fashioned wingnuts to tune them with so I don't have that problem!

Also go for a good goatskin - you need to try before you buy if at all possible as every bodhran is different in feel.