Surfing Waves

I’m new to surfing and about to buy my first new board. I started surfing last summer with a hand me down board, it was a 6’5 natural art short board. I did ok and by the end of the summer was able to get up on about 50% of the waves. Now I’m hooked and I’m looking to buy my first new board this year. I surf in NY so the waves aren’t really that big most of the time. I was looking into getting a 7S super fish. I found a website that is having a blow out clearance sale and I can get a brand new ’09 super fish for about $100 less then the new 2010 boards. The boards are identical except for a new sticker that they started putting on the ’10 boards. In 2010 they make a 6’6 but in 2009 they only made a 6’3. I guess I don’t really mind spending the extra money on the 6’6 if it’s truly necessary but I was told that since I’m still new that I wouldn’t be able to tell the difference between a 6’3 and a 6’6 anyway. I know that it is probably based on preference, but since I’m still new I don’t really know what my preference is yet. Any input anyone can give regarding the size I should get would be greatly appreciated. Being new I don’t really know much about the benefits of one size over another. I’m 5’9 190 lbs and pretty athletic. I’m leaning towards the 6’3 ’09, but don’t want to regret my decision after I buy it, hence why I’m posting this.

Thanks,
Mike

hsrb25 wrote: I was told that since I’m still new that I wouldn’t be able to tell the difference between a 6’3 and a 6’6 anyway.

That's possibly the dumbest bit of advice I've ever heard

When you're good, you'll be able to tell the difference in those 3 inches, when you're beginning you'll NEED those three inches.

Fishes aren't great boards for beginners, but the 7S superfish are a bit of a doddle to surf, so if you can manage on a shortboard then you'll be fine on a 7S fish I reckon.

You'll definitely have more fun and make progress quicker on the 6'6.