Surfing Waves

I just have some quick questions about paddling into waves.

1. Should you always paddle sideways into the wave paralell to the shore? It seems like if I paddle straight in on waves that don't have a ton of power and try to turn my board just sinks when I get into position and try to turn back on it.

2. When paddling should you continue to paddle into the wave even after the wave has caught you for a short period of time? It seems like when I paddle for a short amount of time even after the wave is starting to break I get higher up on the wave and it is easier to pop up and get good foot placement. I just want to make sure I'm not popping up to late or something like that.

Again, any feedback would be helpful. Thanks.

As a beginner, I'd say paddle straight at the shore (less likely to have the board get sideways on you). Once confident, angle the paddle to trim into the wave (left or right depending on wave) - but not parallel - just at a slight angle........

When to stop paddling??? When you're SURE the wave has picked you up.....

If you're falling off the back, then I'd say you're not paddling long enough or you're too far back on the board - but paddle for too long and the wave will pitch and you'll end up going over the falls......

There's no simple answer, but if you're getting to your feet more than you're missing, then I'd guess you're getting something right........

after many wipeouts you will get it right

If you're in the right position paddle straight. If you need to paddle over to get to a better takeoff spot, then do that. If it's the type of wave where you need to be heading down the line right away and don't really have time for a bottom turn, then you can get you're angle during the last few paddles or even during the pop-up.
If you're using a longer, flatter board on steeper waves or later take-offs you may need to start angling earlier to prevent pearling.

As for needing a few extra strokes or not...
If you're getting up and the wave rolls on with out you...you needed a few extra strokes. Otherwise, if you're catching them, then you're doing something right.

k thanks for the feedback, and just for in response to driftalong i have a 6'10'' shortboard, at least I catch waves on it, apparently alot of beginner surfers have a wicked hard time doing just that. at least I've got that, oh yeah and the other day i cut back on a wave unexpectedly got airbone, landed in about knee deep water, hurt like hell but it felt pretty amazing

My best advice is to paddle in the direction that the wave is traveling. Waves don't always head directly toward the shore, sometimes they angle. It's better it you paddle at the angle of attack that the wave is rolling toward the shore at. You'll have better chances of catching the wave if you don't work against it, but use it to work to your advantage.