There really is no BEST configuration for a blues guitar. Solid body guitars work well, as do semi-hollow and hollow body guitars. Single coil pickups work well, as do humbuckers. It really depends on your own style, and what you like. Fretwire is also a personal thing, and it's size won't change your tone. Use whatever is most comfortable for you. I would, however, suggest using the thickest strings you can comfortably use. When it comes to strings, thinner strings sound thinner and thicker strings sound thicker. Use whatever sounds good to you. I would also suggest listening to different guitarists in the style you're going for, and pay attention to their tone and what equipment they use. This will not give you a definitive answer on what to use, but it will help you understand how the different tones are created.

Good luck on your quest for tone... it's a never ending one. ;)