Who makes the best fish? I know there’s no single answer to that question, but I’m going to get a fish for Christmas and there’s so many out there to choose from I thought I’d get some input from you guys. I’m think of something along the lines of a Channel Islands retro fish, any suggestions? Also, I’m 6’2", 185 lbs, what do you think would be a good size retro fish for me?
Thanks!
Have you ever ridden a fish before? Depending on what your used to riding, you may or may not like a fish. I like my fish, but its not a big name shaper. There’s a thread on SurferMag.com that discusses the CI fish and the Kane Garden fish. I’ll see if I can’t track it down.
For my money, the list would have to include Steve Lis, Skip Frye or ‘Toby’ Pavel… all in San Diego… all with years of experience, they have been making/shaping fish since the seventies… no ‘retro’ label. Also, no traditional fish is complete without Larry Gephart fins… IMHO.
Hi Satori,
Who makes the best fish? Look in the mirror. Nothing quite like riding the one you built yourself. mike
For my money, the list would have to include Steve Lis, Skip Frye or ‘Toby’ Pavel… all in San Diego… all with years of experience, they have been making/shaping fish since the seventies… no ‘retro’ label. Also, no traditional fish is complete without Larry Gephart fins… IMHO.
http://www.rainbowsurfboards.com/fishes.htm
Above is link to some Pavel fishes. I’ve heard really good things about the ‘Quad Fish.’
Below is a SurferMag.com discussion about the Channel Island Fish.
http://forum.surfermag.com/…bodyprev=#Post821273
Also, if your looking at the Channel Islands fish, it would probably be cheaper to have a fish custom shaped by the local shaper, or at least roughly the same price.
And if shaping is an option it’s going to be a lot cheaper.
And isn’t that you holding a fish in your avatar, I can’t really tell.
Thanks for the info, and yes, thats me in the avatar with a fish I shaped, the first board that I made. It turned out ok, but it had a few issues, being my first board. I’ve since given up shaping because I don’t have anywhere to work and I’d rather spend my time riding boards instead of shaping them while I’m in Hawaii. I want to pick up shaping again when I move back to the mainland, but for now I’m just going to enjoy the good surf. The only fish I’ve ridden are the one I shaped and a sort of swallowtail thruster/fish. I like the idea of the fish, a maneuverable, small wave alternative to my longboard. I’m not stuck on the CI retro fish, I just mentioned it as a prime example of the classic design.
Shipman Surfboards makes the best fish.
Oh come on now . Everyone knows it’s me… Ha! But that begs the question . I wonder how much the adverage surfer can tell the difference?? How much different the quality has to be for the adverage<sp? surfer to notice ?? Not only in fish but all shapes …I just wonder I have shaped a couple for myself and can pick the good and bad qualities from them . Also have bought a lot of boards from “good/great” shapers and have been dissapointed in a lot of them. But then maybe it’s me and not the board … Ha! … think I have answered my own question … It’s not the shaper … totally … but more what you personally like ?? Aloha, Don
Don’t count out Manny…
Mandala makes the most eye pleasing boards for me…the shape, & colors. I like his designs…never ridden on one though.
Rio
go to the Tropical Blends Shop
makai side Queen by Ward
They have so many retro and new style fish you’ll think you’re in Tamashiro’s
you could go 6’-5’10" classic at 185lbs but its not about pounds it about paddling technique…
Get use to not seeing your board’s nose.
All of these are great shapers but suprised that nobody mentioned Steve Brom, The Magic Man. He makes a terrific traditional fish. Fast, fat, and loose.
My wife and I like the seared ahi special at the Sparrow Cafe.
I’ll take a Forstall or Chris Birtch.
Forstalls 2 favorite personel boards .
If you’re anxious to get a fish real soon, oneula’s suggestion would probably be your best bet. Tropical Blends is fish city, the last time I was there anyway. I would also like to suggest two other shapers. First would be, Makani MacDonald, still serving in the Air Force, he also has a surfboard co. www.808shapes.com and surfs really good too. He’s coming out with a retro fish along with a modern fish design that I saw him riding this past summer. He’ll take the time to find out what you’re looking for and hook you up. I’d also like to recommend Steve Lis, the originator of the fish. He lives on Kauai and can shape you a traditional fish or a newer 4 fin design. When I got a board from him 2 yrs. ago his prices were quite reasonable compared to other mainland shapers (Frye, Christenson, Pavel). I’m not sure what they cost now but email him at stevelisdesigns@yahoo.com for more information.
Forstalls 2 favorite personel boards .
How do I get in touch with Forstall? I’ve heard good things about his boards and I might be interested in one of his fish.
Yes, I know Makani McDonald and have a shortboard by him and its a great board. I might go with him for the fish, too, although the fish design on his website isn’t exactly what I was looking for.
well i cant say who makes the best cuz id have to ride at least three of every shapers board
i can say this though the design of a fish looks like they are
hard to turn
hard to paddle and catch waves
need to be surfed off the front foot
save your money and get your self a progressive shape mate
retro trend is not gunna last forever
i would be very surprized if the average surfer could really notice that much difference in performance
but could surely notice the difference in price and wait.
Do a search for Steve Forstall Here on Swaylocks. His # has been given out a few times . Or send me a message and I will get it to you . I have it in my car but have to get ready for work now… Aloha . Don
Who makes the best fish?
Well, Mario USED to , but I find lately , he’s been putting a bit too much vinegar and salt on them . And his fries suck .
So now I go to Guiseppe, instead . His daughter is much nicer to look at , anyway !
hope this helps
ben [fish and chipfish61]