F2 Phoenix longboard fin question for fun in waves

[mistral10]

Hi. I'm not sure where to start but I've been checking out fins on eBay because I'm thinking of having some fun in the waves. I'll need a smaller fin. I have about a 50cm now. Does anyone have any suggestions on a good type of fin to use? -this is for northeast surf in just a few feet of waves.

[d0uglass]

I think you'll be looking for a fin in the 25-32 cm range, with a lot of area for its length and a somewhat swept-back design. I would suggest the 10" or 12" freeweed fin from Wardog.

http://www.surfingsports.com/freeweed_10.asp

I'll be interested to hear how the Phoenix works in the waves.

[jingebritsen]

When tacking my Kona 11'5 onto a wave late, I need to pivot the board around very quickly. Weed fins do not allow for a quick tail slide during that pivot. I would recommend a freeride fin about 32-36cm with some sweep and an fairly ample chord, but not too much like the weed fins provide. Look at MFC, it rocks. Also, the Ames selection can be good too. Just don't do the weed thing. The slowing of that absolutely last second tack onto a wave bites....

That Pheonix certainly is a great board. A real keeper. :~)

[d0uglass]

I'll defer to John on this since he sails in real waves much more than I do.

But I will say the low aspect weed fins I use work nice for carving, swell-riding, and shallow waters. And shedding weeds, obviously.

[jingebritsen]

Long boards do not suffer as much as short do when using weed fins, but they do top out upwind and speed abilities in all the cases that I've tried. Base back significantly on short boards when using a WF....

[mistral10]

Thanks. I'll be looking in to some of those fins and to retracting my centerboard.

[vims]

Oh yeah, you definitely have to retract your centerboard before you catch a wave. Otherwise unspeakable things happen.

[jingebritsen]

Do it once, and never again will come to mind every other wave thereafter. :~) Rail up and dump! OUCH! :~)