Surfing Waves

On my 9ft 2 inch longboard I've usually had the 2+1 set up with 8in centre fin and 3 inch side fins. I'm usually surfing in smaller waves and have had it suggested that taking the side fins out would be a better bet. Would this be due to less drag and easier less "stagey" turning than on a tri fin?

yes.

Your hardly going to be riping it up and down the face on a 1ft day...

Less drag too.