How it surfs
Fin pairing is not optional on this board. Channel Islands specifically recommend the Futures AMK Keel, which uses a modern rake outline with graduated tip flex and flat inside foils rather than a traditional 1970s keel. A heavily foiled vintage keel will make the board feel draggy and one-directional.
Sizing sits between fish and shortboard logic. Most riders go 2 to 4 inches shorter than their everyday board at 3 to 5 litres more volume — for example a 75 kg surfer on a 5'9" at 30.7 L. Because the front half is a performance outline, going too big blunts what makes the board interesting.
Volume & sizing chart
Use the chart below as a starting point. Add half a litre if you are less experienced, subtract half a litre for a looser feel.
| Size | Volume | Rider weight | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5'6" | 26.4 L | Under 68 kg | Intermediate+ |
| 5'8" | 29.2 L | 68–75 kg | Intermediate+ |
| 5'9" | 30.7 L | 72–80 kg | All levels |
| 5'10" | 32.4 L | 78–85 kg | All levels |
| 6'0" | 35.2 L | 85–92 kg | All levels |
| 6'4" | 41.0 L | 95 kg+ | All levels |
How it compares
| Board | Best at | Wave range | Aggregate score |
|---|---|---|---|
| CI Twin Pin | Pin-tail twin for better waves | Waist to overhead | 9.2 |
| Firewire Seaside | Retro keel twin, looser feel | Ankle to head-high | 9.0 |
| …Lost RNF '96 | Modern high-performance fish | Knee to head-high | 9.2 |
Recommended fin setups
- Futures AMK Keel — Channel Islands' own recommendation — modern rake, graduated tip flex, flat inside foils.
- FCS II Modern Keel — Comparable modern keel template for FCS II boxes.
Verdict
The FishBeard is the fish for surfers who do not want to give up rail control. The performance front half keeps it honest through turns while the keel tail delivers the speed a fish is bought for — as long as you run the AMK-style modern keel it was designed around.