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Born from an offhand comment by Parker Coffin and shaped by curiosity and innovation, the FishBeard is Channel Islands’ answer to the question: What if you fused a high-performance shortboard with the glide of a retro fish? The result is a board that’s equal parts stylish and savage—a creative reinterpretation of the Neck Beard 2, redesigned with a keel-fin setup and party-tail fish outline.
At first glance, the FishBeard screams fun: wide point forward, low entry rocker, and that unmistakable double-swallow fish tail. But under the hood, it packs serious performance potential. Get forward on the board and it trims like a dream, making sections feel longer and smoother. Step back, and you’ll unlock projection, control, and rail-to-rail precision, especially when paired with the Futures AMK Keel Fins, which CI specifically recommends for this shape.
That’s the charm of the FishBeard—it plays both roles. Cruise, carve, or unleash—it responds to your style. And with its vintage mid-‘80s fluorescent logos and CI throwback layup, it looks as fun as it feels.
Pros:
Dual Personality: Flow and trim from the front foot, pivot and drive from the tail.
Modern Fish Performance: Keel-fin speed meets shortboard responsiveness.
Retro Aesthetics, Contemporary Build: Classic looks with progressive performance.
Highly Versatile: Ideal for anything from small beach breaks to shoulder-high walls.
Cons:
Not for Steep, Hollow Waves: The wide tail and keel setup prefer face and flow over ledges and pits.
Keel-Fin Feel Isn't for Everyone: If you're used to thrusters, the tracking and flow may take a session to dial in.
Final Verdict:
The FishBeard is a refreshing twist on a modern classic, delivering the best of both performance and retro charm. For surfers looking to keep things stylish without sacrificing the ability to rip, this board bridges the gap between fun and functional. Whether you're out to groove or push your limits in playful surf, the FishBeard is a board that lets you do both—loudly and proudly.
