Surfing Waves

I picked up an 8'6" last weekend, and it seems to have a bit more rocker than my 7'2" i had gotten used to. It has two 3" and one 8-10" fin in the middle (couldn't find my ruler). The middle fin is all the way forward. I was gonna try going with just the center fin to spin towards shore a bit quicker, but after looking stupid and wobbly a few times, i fugred I shouldn't. How much effect do they have on my rocker if any at all?

It doesn't sound like the rocker is your problem. Fin placement can impact how sturdy the board will be in the water, the further up the looser the board tends to be (easier to turn) but wobblier, vice versa as you move it back, sturdier but harder to turn. Different fins can make a difference as well. What it really sounds like is that you need to take your time most 8'6"'s surf differently than 7'2"s, wider turns as well as the technique it takes to turn the board. Keep trying and don't get discouraged. Good luck.