what beginners board should i go for?

[kurt]

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

[travelzomg]

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...

[kurt]

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