How to Surf in Freshwater

After all the work of paddling out past the break point, ducking under large waves and waiting patiently for the right wave to build, there is no better reward than riding a wave to shore. Maneuvering in and out of the waves with the energy of the water beneath you is exhilarating. Freshwater surfing requires a few different techniques than saltwater surfing. To ensure a successful freshwater surfing experience it is helpful to understand the difference.

Things You'll Need

  • Surfboard
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Instructions

    • 1
      Beginning with the right board ensures you'll optimize your chances for success.

      Purchase the correct surfboard to maximize your chances for success in freshwater surfing. The key to a good beginner board is float and stability. Freshwater is less buoyant than saltwater. Beginner freshwater surfers will be more successful with a longboard. Wider boards offer more stability. If you are going to start learning to surf in freshwater, you will want a wide longboard. Consider a foam board. Foam boards are very stable; since beginners tend to flail and fall a lot, you decrease your chances of injury using a foam board. Begin learning on a 9-foot board that is at least 22 inches wide and 2.5 to 3.5 inches thick. Look for a round nose with an extra rocker. This is a rounded board tip that curves upward in the front. A flat tip will cause you to catch too much water and drag you under. Insist on Pro Teck fins for your board. These are softer and more flexible than their plastic counterparts. While they are equally as effective, you will sustain less injury using Pro Teck while on your learning curve.

    • 2

      Walk into the water up to your waist with the board under your arm. Center your body on the surfboard so that the nose is a few inches above the water. Spread your legs apart a few inches to help maintain balance. Experienced surfers will paddle with their legs together but it's best to start with a balanced board for a beginner. Paddle past the breaking point. Getting past the break point is a challenge when the waves are large. To get through the waves without losing forward progress, you must "duck dive." Place both hands on the edge of your board and push downward. Keep your arms straight and push down and under the wave. Angle the board back to the surface and continue your paddle when the wave passes. Freshwater waves do not roll in as neatly as saltwater. This poses an extra challenge. Locate a beach with a sandbar about 100 yards offshore. Waves will break predictably here and create a good learning spot.

    • 3

      Take hold of your board's edge on either side with both hands. Push up to a sitting position with your legs dangling in the water. Watch the breaking waves for a few moments from this spot, called "line up." Spot a wave that is building to break under you. Turn the board quickly to face the shore. Resume the prostrate position once again on the board. Paddle quickly to gain a burst of speed. Pop up once you feel the momentum of the wave pushing the board. Place both hands on the board's edge and pull your feet up to standing. Stand in a position that is comfortable for you. If you slide across the kitchen floor in your socks with your left foot forward this is how you should stand on your surfboard. If you naturally slide with your right foot forward, position yourself on your board that way. Use your arms to maintain your balance. Soak in the sound, smell and energy of the water as you glide toward shore.