Surfing Waves

Hi there,
I am unsure on what sort of surfboard to purchase. I am making the change from bodyboarding as i want some more fun on the smaller days. i have used my mates 6"4 epoxy fish but just cant get it on this board as its fairly unstable at times and i think it may be a bit too short for my experience level.
i am confident in the surf but don't know wether to buy a minimal or a fish.
i am no taller than 6ft and weigh 80kg.
i have been shopping around for a few boards and have been told from a few salespeople that once u get the hang of a minimal the turning and speed is limited, so i have been also recommended to try a 6"10 big guy fish as it still has good width and bouyancy.
i have my eyes on a 7"2 minimal and bag for $320 or a 6"10 fish and bag package for $650.
i will be surfing most weekends and try to after work on good days.
Looking forward to someones advice,
Thanks

minimal.. id say.. since you (plan to) surf so much, maybe have a look on a shorter one... bout 7.6 or 7.2....

minimals are great for the intermediate and if its a propper one, they have good turning and speed abilities, if you dont go buy a shitty NSP (although they are pretty ok for some fun surfing)... generally, what you can do with a shorty, you can do with a foamie too (just made a frontside floater/lip ride with a 7ft foamie on a shoulder high reef break).

and a shortish minimal is allways good to have on smaller days...

thanks mate, that sounds good.
im going to look at a 7"2 dartboards fibreglass mini mal, seems in good condition.
All the best.