The Steve Lis Fish Surfboard: A Classic Design for Modern Surfers
The Steve Lis Fish has become a classic surfboard design that has endured the test of time. Originally created by Steve Lis in the late 60s to early 70s, the Fish revolutionized surfing by blending traditional longboard elements with a modern, shortboard design. Today, surfers continue to seek out these unique boards for their versatility, speed and ease of use.
What is a Steve Lis Fish?
The Steve Lis Fish is a surfboard that blends the features of short and longboards. It is shorter and wider than most shortboards, but longer and thinner than most longboards. With its wide tail and high volume, the Fish provides paddling ease, stability, float and speed. The design almost looks like a fish, which is where the name comes from.
Steve Lis’ Inspiration
In the late 60s, Steve Lis, a California surfer, was looking for a board that would enable him to ride small, mushy summer waves. He wanted something that would glide easily, turn quickly, and provide good speed. He found inspiration for his design in the kneeboards that were popular at the time, as well as the ancient Hawaiian alaia boards.
Over time, Lis refined the design of the Fish, experimenting with different shapes and dimensions until he found the perfect blend of speed, maneuverability and stability.
The Fish’s Impact on Surf Culture
Lis’ innovative design was a major turning point in surfboard design and culture. Prior to the Fish, surfers mostly rode long boards that were heavy, difficult to maneuver and limited in performance. With its wide tail and high volume, the Fish created a new style of surfing, one that was faster, more fluid and more maneuverable.
Many surfers embraced the Fish and its unique design. The Fish quickly became a popular choice for surfers during the 70s and in the 80s, experienced a resurgence in popularity. Today, the Fish remains a highly sought-after board design, particularly for those looking to ride small, slow waves.
Fish Today
Modern Fish surfboards have evolved and incorporate modern materials and technologies. There are many variations of the Fish design, some more closely resembling traditional short boards, while others have rounded noses and wider tails. Many surfboard manufacturers have created their own versions of the Fish, but the basic outline and design principles remain true to Steve Lis’ original vision.
The bottom line—the Steve Lis Fish is a classic surfboard design that has left a lasting impact on the surfing world. Its innovative design revolutionized the way people approached surfing and paved the way for other modern surfboard designs. Even today, it remains a popular choice for surfers who love its versatility, speed and ease of use.