A fish surfboard is a unique type of surfboard designed to help you catch waves in various conditions, ranging from small, less-than-perfect waves to medium-sized waves. Named for its broad fishtail shape, a fish surfboard is typically shorter, wider, and thicker than a traditional shortboard. These features contribute to their versatility and make fish surfboards an excellent addition to any surfer’s quiver.
When selecting the best fish surfboard for your needs, it’s important to consider factors such as your surfing skill level, typical wave conditions, and personal preferences. A good starting point is to choose a board that is two to six inches shorter than your height. Additionally, look for boards with well-rounded, thick profiles and a wide tail for optimal performance.
Another aspect to consider while choosing a fish surfboard is the fin configuration. Twin fin fish surfboards are popular for their retro feel, loose handling, and great drive. As you progress in your surfing journey and become more familiar with your style and preferences, you can further customize your board by experimenting with different fin types and materials.
5 Benefits of a Fish Surfboard
Cheaper
One major advantage of fish surfboards is their affordability. Compared to other surfboard types, they tend to be priced more reasonably. This makes them a popular choice for those who want to enjoy surfing without breaking the bank.
Speed
Fish surfboards are known for their incredible speed. This can be attributed to their unique design, which features a wide tail and higher volume. This additional volume leads to more buoyancy, allowing them to quickly glide across small, less powerful waves with ease.
Size
Fish surfboards are generally more compact than other surfboards, averaging around 5 inches in length. This smaller size makes them more manageable and easier to control on the water, providing a more enjoyable surfing experience.
Mobility
The compact size and wide tail of a fish surfboard contribute to its mobility in the water. These qualities make it easier for you to perform tricks and maneuver through the waves. The fish surfboard’s nimble design allows for greater responsiveness and control during your sessions.
Adaptability
Lastly, fish surfboards are incredibly versatile, allowing them to be used in a variety of wave conditions. Their stability and buoyancy make them great for both experienced surfers and those transitioning from beginner to intermediate skill levels. With a fish surfboard, you can confidently tackle different types of waves, enhancing your overall surfing experience.
What Are Fish Surfboards Made Of?
Fish surfboards are popular due to their distinctive shape and performance in smaller waves. As you explore the world of fish boards, it’s essential to understand what they’re made of to make the right choice for your surfing needs.
Common Constructions for Most Fish Surfboards
The primary materials used in the construction of fish surfboards include XPE (Cross-linked Polyethylene Foam), EPS (Expanded Polystyrene), HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene), and wood. These materials give the board its desired characteristics, like flexibility and durability.
XPE Foam is often used for the core of the surfboard, providing a lightweight and buoyant base. This material is water-resistant, making it suitable for a fish board meant to ride on top of smaller waves.
EPS Foam is another common core material, known for its high strength-to-weight ratio. It is also water-resistant and adds buoyancy to the board. Some fish surfboards use an epoxy resin over the EPS core, which further enhances the board’s durability and resistance to damage.
HDPE can be found in the slick bottom of a fish surfboard. This high-density polyethylene material adds strength and durability to the surface that comes into contact with the water, helping the board glide smoothly.
Fiberglass and Polyurethane construction is another option when it comes to fish surfboards. In this case, the core is made of polyurethane foam, and the outer layer is made of fiberglass. This traditional construction is known for its strength and durability but tends to be slightly heavier than boards made with XPE or EPS foam cores.
Lastly, Wood Strip construction combines modern technology with traditional methods, using thin strips of wood for a more eco-friendly approach. These boards can be extremely sturdy and have a unique flex pattern, adding a unique aesthetic to your fish surfboard.
As you search for the perfect fish surfboard, consider the materials and construction methods used in each board. Understanding these key components will ensure you choose the best fish board to suit your style, riding preferences, and the conditions you’ll frequently encounter.
Best Fish Surfboards
A fish surfboard is a versatile and retro-inspired board designed specifically for catching smaller waves in less-than-perfect conditions. It is characterized by its wide, thick, and rounded shape, with a unique swallow tail and twin fins. This design gives the fish surfboard its distinct buoyancy, flat rocker, and exceptional maneuverability.
Fish surfboards are typically wider and boast more volume than the average surfboard. This additional width and volume provide extra buoyancy, making it easier to paddle into and catch small waves. Moreover, the flat rocker and twin fins of a fish surfboard contribute to its speed, allowing for smooth glides and easy turns.
The swallow tail design of fish surfboards enhances its versatility, enabling seamless transition from one maneuver to another. Not only does the tail provide stability, but it also grants the rider the option to perform sharp turns quickly. Fish surfboards are particularly suited to small waves, and the tail design complements this by providing adequate hold and grip.
When it comes to choosing the best fish surfboard for your needs, there are several factors to consider:
- Fish Surfboard Size: Fish surfboards should be around 2 to 6 inches shorter than the rider. Keep in mind that the size should align with your skill level and the conditions you plan to surf in.
- Twin Fins: Fish surfboards are typically designed with twin fins, which offer increased speed and allow for quick, responsive turns. While most traditional fish surfboards have twin fins, some hybrid models may come equipped with other fin setups.
- Shape & Volume: Ensure that the fish surfboard you choose is thick and well-rounded, with a broad fishtail. These features will result in a more buoyant and stable board suited for catching small waves.
- Rocker: A flat rocker is ideal, as it allows for smooth glides and better speed in smaller waves.
In addition to these factors, you may also come across hybrid fish surfboards, which combine attributes from other surfboard types to offer a unique surfing experience. These boards tend to maintain the overall fish surfboard design while incorporating some additional features, such as more fins or a modified tail shape.
Ultimately, the perfect fish surfboard will depend on your individual preferences and the conditions you plan to surf in. By considering the factors mentioned above and trying out different models, you’ll be able to find a fish surfboard that best suits your style and needs.
Best Fish Surfboard Overall: Surftech x AIPA Dark Twinn Surfboard
When it comes to choosing the best fish surfboard, the Surftech x AIPA Dark Twinn Surfboard stands out as a top pick. This remarkable twin surfboard model has been developed as part of the renowned Dark Series lineup. Sharing common elements with its quad counterpart, the Dark Horse, it provides excellent performance for both beginners and experienced surfers alike.
The Dark Twinn features a strategic wing placement that optimizes the wing-to-fin relationship for improved performance in this specific fin configuration. This twin fin surfboard offers excellent control, stability, and lift, thanks to its mid-range rockers, lowered rail apex line, and carefully crafted bottom contour.
One of the key attributes of the Dark Twinn is its bottom contour, which consists of a progressive roll from the nose to a single concave under the front foot. This then transitions to a deep double concave between the front fins, blending into a satisfying amount of vee/double through the wing and tail. The result is a lively and responsive fish surfboard that delivers exceptional performance in a variety of conditions.
Constructed with Surftech’s durable materials, the Dark Twinn is a virtually indestructible surfboard that will provide you with fun sessions for years to come. This fishtail board offers a great blend of volume, responsiveness, and stability, making it an ideal choice for both novice and experienced surfers looking to enhance their skills and enjoy the waves.
In summary, the Surftech x AIPA Dark Twinn Surfboard stands out as the best overall fish surfboard due to its excellent performance, versatility, and durability. Whether you’re new to surfing or a seasoned pro, this twin fin surfboard is a fantastic choice for leveling up your game and enjoying the ride.
Best High-Performance Fish Surfboard: Fishbeard by Channel Islands
The Fishbeard by Channel Islands seamlessly combines performance and versatility, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a high-quality fish surfboard. This remarkable board is a hybrid between a Neck Beard 2 and a keel-fin fish, resulting in a design that offers maximum speed and flow without sacrificing agility and maneuverability.
When it comes to performance, the Fishbeard truly stands out. Its wide-nosed, user-friendly design encourages stability, while its keel fins promote control and grip. The twin-fin setup allows for effortless down-the-line speed and tight carves, giving you the best of both worlds from a fish and a typical shortboard.
One distinctive feature of the Fishbeard is its volume distribution. The board maintains a generous volume in the nose, helping you paddle into waves with ease and providing stability underfoot. As you transition towards the tail, the volume decreases, giving the board a lively and responsive feel when executing turns and maneuvers.
The flat rocker of the Fishbeard contributes to its impressive speed and smooth glide. This design aspect also enhances its maneuverability, making it easier for you to steer, pivot, and make quick adjustments on the wave. Despite its fish-inspired speed and flow, the Fishbeard is just as capable of performing snappy turns, airs, and critical maneuvers as any high-performance shortboard.
In conclusion, the Fishbeard by Channel Islands is an exceptional option for surfers seeking a high-performance fish surfboard that blends the speed and flow of a fish with the maneuverability and responsiveness of a shortboard. It is a perfect choice for those who want a versatile board that excels in a wide range of conditions, from small mushy waves to steep, powerful surf.
Best Small Wave Fish Surfboard: Red Baron by JS
If you’re searching for a fish surfboard designed to perform well in small waves, look no further than the Red Baron by JS Industries. This surfboard offers a perfect balance of performance and maneuverability, ensuring you get the most out of every wave.
The Red Baron is a twin fin surfboard with a flat rocker, making it an ideal choice for small waves. This design provides you with quick acceleration and easy speed generation, allowing you to maximize your time on the water. Compared to its older brother, the Black Baron, the Red Baron has slightly more width in the tail, which helps enhance your flow and control as you glide through the waves.
One of the standout features of the Red Baron is its volume, strategically distributed throughout the board to create stability and aid in catching waves. This makes it a great option for both experienced and beginner surfers looking for a fish surfboard that performs well in various conditions.
In terms of maneuverability, the Red Baron’s twin fin setup offers swift responsiveness, allowing you to make tight turns with ease. Additionally, the flat rocker design contributes to this surfboard’s agility and enhances its performance in small, mushy waves.
To sum it up, the Red Baron by JS Industries is a fish surfboard designed with performance and versatility in mind. Its features cater to surfers who seek a board that excels in small wave conditions, delivers control, and offers plenty of maneuverability. Give this surfboard a try, and you might just find it to be the perfect fit for your next small wave adventure.
Best Fish Surfboard for Beginners: Skipper Quad x JOB
If you’re a beginner looking for the ideal fish surfboard, the Skipper Quad x JOB is a fantastic choice. This surfboard offers a perfect blend of stability, glide, and control, making it well-suited for those just starting their surfing journey.
As a beginner, you’ll appreciate the twin fin setup that comes with the Skipper Quad x JOB. Twin fins offer more directional stability and help you maintain better control on the waves. They also provide an extra bit of lift, making it easier to catch waves and generate speed.
The Skipper Quad x JOB features a fishtail design, which creates a loose and playful feel in the water. This fishtail shape helps you make smoother turns and develop your maneuverability skills, while also allowing for a wider range of motion.
Another aspect that makes the Skipper Quad x JOB great for beginners is its generous volume and width. These features provide additional buoyancy and balance, helping you feel more confident and stable on the water. This extra stability is essential as you’re learning to catch waves and improve your stance.
In summary, the Skipper Quad x JOB is an excellent fish surfboard for beginners because it offers:
- Twin fin setup for stability, control, and lift
- Fishtail design for smooth turns and better maneuverability
- Ample volume and width for added buoyancy and balance
By choosing the Skipper Quad x JOB as your first fish surfboard, you’ll be well-equipped to progress in your surfing skills and enjoy the thrilling experience of riding the waves.
Best Low-Cost Fish Surfboard: Skipper Quad x Jamie O’Brien Pro
If you’re looking for an affordable fish surfboard that offers great performance, the Skipper Quad x Jamie O’Brien Pro is an excellent choice. At just above $340, depending on the size, this board is perfect for beginners, thanks to its foam construction and included fins.
One of the main attributes of this surfboard is its buoyancy. The foam construction provides excellent floatation, making it easier to catch waves and maintain speed. This feature is especially beneficial for those who are new to surfing or transitioning to a fish surfboard for the first time.
Another benefit of the Skipper Quad x Jamie O’Brien Pro is its stability and control. The quad fin setup allows for smooth turns and consistent speed, ensuring you have an enjoyable surfing experience. Additionally, the twin fin design promotes lift, enabling you to ride more waves.
The performance of this surfboard is also noteworthy. Despite its low cost, the Skipper Quad x Jamie O’Brien Pro does not compromise on quality. Jamie O’Brien, a professional surfer, has endorsed this board and attests to its performance in various wave conditions.
In summary, the Skipper Quad x Jamie O’Brien Pro is an excellent choice for a low-cost fish surfboard. Combining buoyancy, stability, control, and performance at an affordable price point, this board is perfect for beginners or those looking to expand their quiver without breaking the bank.
Best Eco-Friendly Fish Surfboard: Seaside by Firewire
The Seaside by Firewire is a fantastic option for those who are looking for a sustainable, yet high-performance surfboard with elements of a fish design. This eco-friendly board is designed by legendary surfer Rob Machado and it seamlessly combines a classic fish shape with modern refinements to create a board that performs both in style and functionality.
You will appreciate the Seaside’s focus on a cruisy and fun feel, which is a signature characteristic of a traditional fish surfboard. Moreover, its custom quad setup offers additional control while surfing. With a pulled-in tail and narrower nose compared to a regular fish board, this surfboard allows for tighter turns, ensuring you can enjoy a versatile surfing experience.
Furthermore, the Seaside offers exceptional paddling capabilities, making it an ideal option for both beginners and advanced users. This is thanks to the board’s width, providing extra buoyancy and stability on the water. As a result, catching waves becomes easier, allowing you to enjoy your time in the water and improving your overall surfing experience.
In terms of construction, Firewire is known for its environmentally friendly approach, utilizing sustainable materials and manufacturing techniques. By choosing the Seaside, you are not only investing in a high-quality surfboard but also contributing to the wellbeing of our planet.
To sum up, the Seaside by Firewire is a brilliant choice for surfers seeking an eco-friendly board that maintains the playfulness of a fish surfboard while offering modern enhancements. With its impressive control, paddling ease, stability, and performance-oriented design, this board promises to elevate your surfing sessions to new heights.
How to Store a Fish Surfboard
Properly storing your fish surfboard can help maintain its longevity and performance. This section will guide you through how to store your surfboard, and provide some useful tips to keep it in the best possible condition.
On a Rack
One of the easiest and safest ways to store your fish surfboard is on a rack. There are various types of racks available for different purposes:
- Home storage: Install a wall-mounted or free-standing rack in a designated storage area at home, such as a garage or basement.
- Roof storage: Roof racks are perfect for securely transporting your surfboard to and from the beach. They easily mount onto your car’s roof and can be removed when not in use.
- Car storage: If your vehicle has inside storage space, consider using a car pad to safely secure your surfboard.
Storage Tips
Following these storage tips will help preserve your fish surfboard’s lifespan:
- Control sunlight exposure: Keep your board out of direct sunlight, as excessive and prolonged exposure can cause damage to its materials and finish.
- Temperature awareness: Avoid leaving your surfboard in your car for extended periods, as extreme temperatures can cause the materials to deteriorate.
- Surface protection: Ensure that your surfboard is not being stored on hard surfaces that can cause pressure dings and impact damage.
- Secure storage: Double-check that your board is safely fastened and secure, whether on a rack or in a vehicle, to prevent accidents and potential damage.
- Clean and maintain: Regularly clean your surfboard by rinsing it off with fresh water. This significantly helps in removing salt, sand, and other debris.
- Protective accessories: Use a surfboard bag or surfboard sock when transporting or storing your board. This extra layer of protection can help prevent dings, scratches, and fading.
- Leash care: Do not hang your surfboards by the leash, as doing so can cause strain on the leash and surfboard plug. Instead, store your leash separately when your surfboard is not in use.
Best Fish Surfboard Brands
Surftech x AIPA
Surftech x AIPA collaboration has resulted in a great lineup of fish surfboards that cater to various skill levels. For beginners, their boards offer stability and easy paddling, while advanced surfers can enjoy high-performance models suitable for more challenging waves, including point breaks, reef breaks, and beach breaks. The boards in the Surftech x AIPA collection are crafted with a combination of gloss and hybrid materials to ensure durability and excellent wave-riding capabilities.
Firewire
Firewire Surfboards, founded in 2005, is dedicated to elevating your surfing experience with innovative designs, new materials, and advanced construction methods. With a selection of fish surfboards for beginners, intermediate, and advanced surfers, Firewire caters to different skill levels. One notable model is the retro fish surfboard, which brings a touch of San Diego’s surfing heritage to your session. Firewire boards are created from environmentally sustainable materials, ensuring that your board is not only high-quality but eco-friendly as well.
Catch Surf
Catch Surf is a brand that has pioneered the soft surfboards movement since its creation in 2007. Their fish surfboards are stylish, making them an excellent choice for the experienced surfer who wants to add some flair to their sessions. Catch Surf’s lineup includes options suitable for various wave conditions, such as barrels, point breaks, and beach breaks. By using a surfboard size chart, you can find the perfect Catch Surf fish surfboard tailored to your skill and preference.
Rob Machado
Rob Machado Surfboards offers a fantastic selection of fish surfboards for all levels. Thanks to Machado’s years of experience, his boards are expertly designed for optimal maneuverability, speed, and responsiveness. Perfect for a day at the barrel or a casual session on a beach break, Rob Machado’s fish surfboards are both stylish and high-performance.
Lost
Founded in 1985, Lost Surfboards provides exceptional fish surfboards designed for the most progressive surfers. With models tailored for various skill levels, Lost Surfboards places a strong emphasis on performance, ensuring that you catch more waves and improve your skills with every ride. Matt Biolos, the founder of Lost Surfboards, has created a diverse selection of fish surfboards ranging from retro styles to modern hybrids, suitable for various wave conditions.
Channel Islands
Channel Islands Surfboards has been at the forefront of surfboard innovation since 1969. They offer a range of fish surfboards dedicated to performance and quality. With options for beginners to advanced surfers, Channel Islands ensures that you have the perfect board for your skill level. Their fish surfboards are designed for different wave types, including point breaks, reef breaks, and beach breaks, allowing you to confidently ride any wave that comes your way.
JS Industries
JS Industries, founded by Jason Stevenson in 1999, is known for their high-performance surfboards, trusted by some of the world’s best surfers. Their fish surfboards cater to all skill levels, and their lineup includes vibant designs and versatile shapes for various wave conditions. With a JS Industries fish surfboard, you can enjoy a thrilling ride, whether you’re just starting or competing in a world championship.