A grown-up evolution of a classic fish, blending glide, maneuverability, and ease in a versatile mid-length.
After years as the best-selling and most beloved “Fish” model globally, the RNF ’96 has matured into the Kingfish, a stretched and sleeked-up addition to the Mid-Length Mayhem family. Designed for surfers who grew up riding the classic fish but now seek a board better suited for evolving styles, age, and changing priorities, the Kingfish maintains the core DNA of the RNF ’96 while introducing thoughtful refinements for today’s wave conditions and surfer demands.
The Kingfish features a low entry rocker that enhances paddling ease and glide, helping riders power through line-ups and catch waves effortlessly. Its flattish deck and full, down/soft rails provide flotation and stability without excess bulk, while the curvy deck line keeps the board nimble and forgiving underfoot — even in larger sizes.
The outline balances modest width in both nose and tail, which are equal across sizes, maintaining central curve for responsive turning. Unlike traditional fish, the Kingfish’s tail is relatively narrow with a shallow swallow, providing solid hold without feeling overly “fishy,” making turns more precise and controlled.
The bottom contours blend flat rocker at the front into a single concave through the center, tapering to a double concave vee from the front fins, finishing with a deep vee out the swallow tail. This bottom shape amplifies acceleration, speed, and rail-to-rail flow.
Designed to be ridden on average about 6 inches longer than the RNF ’96, the Kingfish still feels surprisingly loose and easy to turn thanks to tailored tail rocker and deck scoop adjustments as the sizes increase. The consistent thin, foiled nose and tail maintain maneuverability and control. The classic 2+1 fin setup — twin fins up front plus a small trailer fin — offers a forgiving sweet spot, allowing turns without needing to stand far back on the tail.
Pros:
* Effortless paddling and wave catching due to low entry rocker
* Smooth glide and acceleration from refined bottom contours
* Balanced outline suitable for a wide range of surfer skill levels and wave types
* Nimble and forgiving even in larger sizes thanks to tailored rocker and deck shaping
* Shallow swallow tail provides hold without the “fishy” feel, enabling better control and turns
* Versatile 2+1 fin setup delivers stability and maneuverability
Cons:
* Longer length might be less ideal for surfers seeking a compact fish experience
* Purists looking for traditional, wider fish outlines may find the Kingfish too restrained
* Some surfers may find the board’s balance leans more toward cruising than radical performance
* Not as specialized for heavy or hollow waves
Summary:
The RNF ’96 Kingfish is a refined and matured take on a legendary fish design, crafted to meet the evolving needs of surfers who want an accessible, versatile mid-length that balances glide, speed, and control. It’s ideal for riders who appreciate the ease and fun of a fish but desire a more nimble, modern feel that works well across various conditions. With thoughtful refinements in rocker, outline, and fin setup, the Kingfish offers a confident ride for a wide audience — from aging fish devotees to intermediate surfers looking to upgrade their mid-length quiver.