trying to progress - need help!

[stoters]

Hi guys, I've been using an 8'4 Bic Magnum, which is a whale of a board. I've made the best I could of it, and it's helped me catch loads of waves as well. I've gotten pretty good turning, riding the face, chasing sections. But now I want to do cutbacks. I know in theory that I should be able to do it, but I'm having a really hard time turning it back fast enough. It might have something to do with the sheer size of it (I think it's 3 3/4 inches thick).

I've tried my friend's 6'4 NSP fish, and I could catch waves on it. Haven't spent enough time with it to be able to try doing a cutback on it though.

Mainly, I just want more maneuverability. Should I just try harder on my Bic or try for a fish (because I still want to be able to catch waves)?

I was thinking either a 6'4 NSP or a 6'6 Southpoint fish. I tried my friend's 6'0 7S and I had a hard time.

I usually surf shoulder to head high waves on average, if that helps.

[Togs]

Hi Stoters,

From what you've said above, I'd say that - unless your really unfit - it's definitely time to get a smaller board. You can get even the smallest of boards into shoulder to head high waves as long as you have the fitness and paddling technique.

It will take a bit of time to get used to the way that a smaller board paddles and moves but it sounds like you're at a stage where you will get into it very quickly.

My advice would be to get a smaller board and work on your paddling technique until you're catching the same number of waves as you are now. Don't go too small too soon though, as you may find you lose some of that all important style!

I'm no expert by the way, these are just things I've picked up - go and ask people you surf with and who've seen you surf. Your choice will also depend on your weight and height, so find a shop where they know their stuff and get some advice there.

[Johno]

Yep i'd say defo time for a smaller board, i did the same went from a 7 9 Bic to a 6 8 x 21 x 2 1/2, found it easy to catch waves on and pop up.

was getting in tune with the board untill on a small day when i was finding it hard to catch waves went back to my 7 9 now am back at square 1 with the short board.

get a smaller board (not to small as togs said) and stick with it, even if it is hard at first