How long does it take to find the "sweet spot" on a surfboard?

Question

I've been surfing for 4 months. I started on a 7'6 funboard but switched to a 9'0 long board because I thought it would be easier. I was wrong. I was doing better on the short board! Granted, the 9'0 is more stable, but I keep perling and it's driving me nuts! I never perled this much on my shorter board. I've been on this new board for about a month. Shouldn't I have found the sweet spot by now?

Answer 1

When I get a new board I always think, Well the next 5 surfs are gonna be bad. That is me.

I have been surfing for 30 years, and find that people who start surfing these days want results too quick. Personally I dont think there is a sweet spot on a board especially anything over 6 foot, As you alter your position on the board to suit the wave you are riding.Also when you need extra speed for a fast a section you tend to put your weight forward or  if you need to stall a bit for a bit of tube time or to let the pocket  catch you up to tend to shift your weight back,

Answer 2

Here's a little trick to keep you from pearling on your takeoff on the LB.  Chances are you're body is just a little too far forward on your take offs... you're trying to keep that same 'planing feeling' you have on your funboard when catching a wave.  This time scoot back a few inches.. almost as if you feel as if the nose is sticking up too high.

When you're paddling for the wave, lean forward and press your chest against the board... you can also press your chin on the board too.  Bending you knees up just as you start 'getting into the wave' also helps.  Doing this will help you adjust your position better and find the sweet spot - you'll be able to take off on mushy waves as well as steep waves from this position.  One you get the hang of it, you can go back to catching waves 'the old way'.

There is a 'sweet spot' on every surfboard in regards to catching a wave.  The problem I think you are having is you are trying to ride the longboard like the funboard/shortboard.  They are to be ridden differently.