{"id":459,"date":"2025-03-03T15:24:04","date_gmt":"2025-03-03T14:24:04","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/addictionsurfboards.com\/?p=459"},"modified":"2025-03-03T15:25:06","modified_gmt":"2025-03-03T14:25:06","slug":"fish-tail-surfing-history-advantages-and-choosing-the-ideal-board","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/addictionsurfboards.com\/en\/surfblog\/fish-tail-surf-histoire-avantages-et-choix-de-la-planche-ideale\/","title":{"rendered":"Fish tail surfing: history, advantages and choosing the perfect board"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>So you're struggling in small waves and looking for a board that planes and turns easily? The <strong>fish tail surf<\/strong> could well be your ally! Here we tell you the fascinating story of the <strong>benefits<\/strong> of this <strong>shape<\/strong> designed for <strong>small waves<\/strong>. Did you know that this \"fishtail\" tail acts as a real <strong>speed booster<\/strong> ? We explain how <strong>adapt the aileron configuration<\/strong> to optimise your board, without sacrificing the pleasure of riding.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"fish-tail-surf-definition-caracteristiques\">Fishtail surfing: the shape that makes all the difference<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Le <strong>fish tail<\/strong>based on the same idea as a <strong>swallow tail<\/strong>is distinguished by <strong>a unique shape in the world of surfboards<\/strong>. Born in the 70s under the impetus of Californian kneeboarders, this design can be recognised by <strong>its pronounced V evoking a \"swallow's tail<\/strong>\". Designed to dominate the waves of San Diego, this shape has found its place on longboards and hybrid models. <strong>What makes it special? Its reduced foam area between the tips of the fish tail is equivalent to 14% of the last foot of the board.<\/strong> - a detail that changes everything.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"684\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/addictionsurfboards.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/B52-5-684x1024.png\" alt=\"The sleek white surfboard, shaped to perfection with two black fins on the bottom, rests elegantly on a pristine white surface.\" class=\"wp-image-378\" srcset=\"https:\/\/addictionsurfboards.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/B52-5-684x1024.png 684w, https:\/\/addictionsurfboards.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/B52-5-200x300.png 200w, https:\/\/addictionsurfboards.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/B52-5-768x1149.png 768w, https:\/\/addictionsurfboards.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/B52-5.png 862w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 684px) 100vw, 684px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>This type of tail brings <strong>a unique feeling underfoot<\/strong>. Let's see why it's so appealing:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Agility in flat water:<\/strong> Fish <strong>outperforms squash in soft waves thanks to its tapered rails<\/strong>. Its accentuated V allows for sharp turns where other tails would stall.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Boosted planning:<\/strong> Compared with the round tail, <strong>the swallow offers lateral support thanks to its two points<\/strong>. Perfect for keeping relief in flat sections, especially with a quad configuration.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Modular versatility:<\/strong> <strong>More responsive than a pin tail while remaining stable<\/strong>This design works equally well on a longfish or a short hybrid. The rounded tail rails make for easy transitions.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Optimum flotation:<\/strong> <strong>The width of the swallow increases rear lift<\/strong>. A must for surfers looking for stability in small waves, especially on thick boards.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>The secret of the fish tail? Its deep V, which distributes the pressure on the water<\/strong>. This system creates two points of contact with the face of the wave, allowing precise support on the rails. <strong>Combined with a flat rocker, it transforms the slightest undulation into propulsive energy<\/strong> - ideal for quads or twins.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Good to know: <strong>this shape excels particularly well on wide boards like retro fish<\/strong>. Its split tail grips the water during cutbacks while freeing the board when exiting turns. Modern shapers often combine it with boxy rails for more predictable behaviour.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A little tip: <strong>test it in configuration <a href=\"https:\/\/addictionsurfboards.com\/en\/surfboards\/b54\/\">quad<\/a> or<a href=\"https:\/\/addictionsurfboards.com\/en\/surfboards\/b52\/\"> twin<\/a> fins <\/strong>. You'll enjoy explosive acceleration in critical sections, while maintaining control during hard turns on the rear rail.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>One last detail: <strong>the fish tail is not just for shortboards<\/strong>. On a longfish or a progressive board, it provides surprising responsiveness without sacrificing stability. The proof is in the midlength hybrid models like the <a href=\"https:\/\/addictionsurfboards.com\/en\/surfboards\/thrive\/\">THRIVE<\/a> which combines this tail with generous curves.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/addictionsurfboards.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/ADDICTION-B54-2025-G-WEB-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"A sleek white surfboard with a streamlined shape and three black fins is seen from the bottom, set against a white background.\" class=\"wp-image-284\" srcset=\"https:\/\/addictionsurfboards.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/ADDICTION-B54-2025-G-WEB-683x1024.jpg 683w, https:\/\/addictionsurfboards.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/ADDICTION-B54-2025-G-WEB-200x300.jpg 200w, https:\/\/addictionsurfboards.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/ADDICTION-B54-2025-G-WEB-768x1152.jpg 768w, https:\/\/addictionsurfboards.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/ADDICTION-B54-2025-G-WEB.jpg 860w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 683px) 100vw, 683px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"evolution-historique-innovations\">The historical development of fish tail<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The history of the fish tail is a story full of twists and turns, driven by passion and technological advances. Here are the milestones:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><th>Year<\/th><th>Event<\/th><th>Impact<\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>1967<\/td><td><strong>Steve Lis creates the first fish tail<\/strong><\/td><td>Clever reuse of a broken longboard to improve handling in hollow waves.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Early 1970s<\/td><td>Growing popularity among kneeboarders<\/td><td>Practical solution to avoid fin friction thanks to wider rails.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Mid-1970s<\/td><td>Adoption for surfboards<\/td><td>The fish tail is essential in light conditions.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Late 1970s - Early 1980s<\/td><td><strong>Success for Mark Richards with a twin fin configuration<\/strong><\/td><td>Four world titles thanks to a fine twin setup.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>2000s<\/td><td><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/addictionsurfboards.com\/en\/surfboards\/\">Retro fish with modern technology<\/a><\/strong><\/td><td>Integration of materials and hybridisation with shortboard pin tails.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Modern adaptations<\/td><td>Hybridisation and improvements to materials<\/td><td>Epoxy redefines performance, especially in small waves.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The fish tail owes its existence to the ingenuity of Steve Lis in the 1970s. This kneeboarder noticed a simple problem: his fins were rubbing against the narrow rails of his favourite pin tails. So he decided to split the tail, creating a swallow shape that freed up the necessary space. But remember, it's not just a question of shape! The rounded rails and distributed volume completely transform the board's behaviour.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Today, shapers are mixing heritage with innovation. Hybrid models combine the traditional fish or swallow with longboard elements for glide, or quad configurations for responsiveness. The epoxy adds rigidity that accentuates the response of the rails in tight turns, while lightening the board. The result? Sharper acceleration from take-off and greater adaptability to swell size variations. The modernised squash tails offer improved release on exit from the turn, even in light conditions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Many shapers sum it up well: \"A good fish is the alchemy between a generous swallow, rails that bite into the water and a forgiving shape without sacrificing performance\". This philosophy explains why this design remains unchallenged by many surfers looking for a versatile board.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"performance-technique-vagues\">Technical performance and adaptation to waves<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Le <strong>fish tail<\/strong> owes its effectiveness to <strong>very specific hydrodynamic mechanics<\/strong>. Its split tail <strong>evacuates water more quickly<\/strong>This reduces friction with the surface of the board. <strong>Central V-shape guides water flow<\/strong> for smoother gliding. What's the result? <strong>Improved lift and more precise cornering<\/strong>especially on longboards fitted with a swallow tail.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>To adapt your fish, <strong>it all depends on the conditions of the spot<\/strong>. In the presence of hollow waves, <strong>the quad (four fins) is often the best choice<\/strong>. This configuration <strong>boosts grip in critical sections<\/strong>with more attractive tracks. It should be noted that <strong>the rocker of the board plays a key role here<\/strong> Combined with a pin tail or squash, it allows you to make quick adjustments in the middle of a trajectory. The other way round, <strong>a slim twin configuration that focuses more on the width of the tail and the volume of the rails<\/strong> to remain proactive.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A test spot for your swallow tail? <strong>The moderate waves of Canggu in Bali<\/strong>where <strong>the interplay between quad and round tail makes all the difference in transitions<\/strong>. In fact, local surfers often favour <strong>wide squash-type tails to maximise propulsion in shallow water<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"planches-icones-surfeurs-legendes\">Iconic boards and legendary surfers<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The world of surfing is full of legendary boards, and the <strong>retro fish<\/strong> have a special place in it. These <strong>cult models inspired by the 1970s<\/strong> have been given a modern makeover to <strong>greater buoyancy and responsiveness<\/strong>. Shorter than standard boards, they become formidable in small conditions thanks to their generous rail and tail in <strong>characteristic swallow<\/strong>. The versions of Addiction are distinguished by their <strong>balance between retro heritage and current technologies<\/strong> - rockers, optimised foils and redesigned bottom contours. <\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/addictionsurfboards.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/ADDICTION-THRIVE-2025-H-WEB-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"A yellow surfboard with two fins, one orange and one white, leans against a white wall, showingcasing its sleek shape.\" class=\"wp-image-362\" srcset=\"https:\/\/addictionsurfboards.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/ADDICTION-THRIVE-2025-H-WEB-683x1024.jpg 683w, https:\/\/addictionsurfboards.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/ADDICTION-THRIVE-2025-H-WEB-200x300.jpg 200w, https:\/\/addictionsurfboards.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/ADDICTION-THRIVE-2025-H-WEB-768x1152.jpg 768w, https:\/\/addictionsurfboards.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/ADDICTION-THRIVE-2025-H-WEB.jpg 860w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 683px) 100vw, 683px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>The fish tail appeals to pros and freesurfers alike, each with their own style. Steph Gilmore proved this at the Electric Acid Test in <strong>taming a Machado model with the style usually associated with high-performance boards<\/strong>. The Californian shaper, <strong>is constantly exploring the limits of the concept<\/strong> - to imagining a 7-foot fish with rounded rails. Their secret? A <strong>shape that perfectly follows the wave<\/strong>Whether on a quad or a twin. But beware, their mastery of the swallow tail should not blind us to other configurations such as the squash or round tail, which are just as suitable depending on the spot.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This <strong>quest for free expression via fish<\/strong> influenced a whole generation of surfers. <strong>Halfway between the traditional longboard and modern shortboards, these hybrid boards redefine the possibilities of longboarding.<\/strong> in both flat and big water. Their characteristic tail and worked rails offer <strong>a whole new range of manoeuvres, turning every bend into a playground<\/strong>. A discreet but very real revolution for those who can read between the lines.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"choisir-sa-planche-fish-tail\">Choosing your ideal fishtail board<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Determine the <strong>fish tail board<\/strong> that's right for you means first of all assessing <strong>three key elements<\/strong> Your body shape, the spots you go to and, of course, your level. For a new rider, it's best to opt for <strong>a model with generous volume<\/strong> - It makes rowing easier and helps you catch waves more easily. A <strong>slightly longer<\/strong> also provides a degree of stability that's appreciated when you're just starting out. If the <strong>fish<\/strong> are generally shorter than longboards, <strong>between 7'4\" and 8'2\" tall<\/strong> is a good compromise. At Addiction Surfboards, we offer the THRIVE long model. <strong>fish<\/strong> in 7'4\" and 8'2\" specially designed for beginners. These <strong>boards<\/strong> have a generous volume, making them easy to row and take on. <strong>waves<\/strong>This allows beginners to progress more quickly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This year, <strong>shapers revisit the classics with refined keels and asymmetrical designs<\/strong>. The idea? <strong>Maximising reactivity according to conditions<\/strong>. Narrow keels bite into the rail better on take-off, whereas <strong>the asymmetry allows the inside and outside track to be adapted<\/strong> for improved energy transfer. A logical evolution in a world where board shapes and fin setups are constantly being perfected. Trends for 2025 include the return of thin keels and asymmetric designs. These innovations will optimise the performance of <strong>boards<\/strong> in a variety of conditions. Thin keels, which are longer and deeper, offer better hold in the most difficult conditions. <strong>waves<\/strong> while asymmetrical designs allow you to adapt the shape of the <strong>board<\/strong> to the specific characteristics of each <strong>rail<\/strong>improving manoeuvrability and safety. <strong>speed<\/strong>. These developments bear witness to the constant quest for innovation in the world of <strong>surf<\/strong>where <strong>shape<\/strong> and <strong>configurations<\/strong> d'<strong>fins<\/strong> are constantly evolving. Visit <strong>surfers<\/strong> can customise their equipment to best suit their needs and lifestyle. <strong>surf<\/strong>. The choice of <strong>abuses<\/strong> is also crucial, directly influencing the <strong>speed<\/strong>the handling and holding of the <strong>board<\/strong>. By exploring these new trends, the <strong>surfers<\/strong> can discover unique sensations and push back their limits on the <strong>waves<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Since the 1970s, the <strong>fish tail surf<\/strong> revolutionises sessions with its <strong>clever design combining speed and manoeuvrability<\/strong>ideal for small, soft waves. Let's see: whether you're a beginner or a pro, the choice of your <strong>board and its shape<\/strong> will make all the difference on the water. So get ready to rock the waves with this<strong> tail so special<\/strong>?<\/p>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>What is fish tail surfing? Discover the history, the advantages and how to choose the ideal board (fins, rails...) to rip through the waves!<\/p>","protected":false},"author":4,"featured_media":274,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_seopress_robots_primary_cat":"none","_seopress_titles_title":"Fish tail surf : histoire, avantages et choix de la planche id\u00e9ale","_seopress_titles_desc":"Le fish tail surf, c'est quoi ? D\u00e9couvrez l'histoire, les avantages et comment choisir la planche id\u00e9ale (ailerons, rails...) pour d\u00e9chirer les vagues !","_seopress_robots_index":"","inline_featured_image":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[12],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-459","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-surfblog"],"acpt":null,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/addictionsurfboards.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/459","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/addictionsurfboards.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/addictionsurfboards.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/addictionsurfboards.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/4"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/addictionsurfboards.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=459"}],"version-history":[{"count":2,"href":"https:\/\/addictionsurfboards.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/459\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":463,"href":"https:\/\/addictionsurfboards.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/459\/revisions\/463"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/addictionsurfboards.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/274"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/addictionsurfboards.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=459"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/addictionsurfboards.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=459"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/addictionsurfboards.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=459"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}