Currently in the process of building my SUP/Longboard. It's 11'4" made of western red cedar. I am 6'2" and weigh 200lbs. I am about to start the fiberglassing and am starting to look for the correct fin to put on it as that will be next. after some researching I realized there is a lot more to it and I just don't have the experience to make the best choice so was turning to some forums for help.

I have never surfed before nor have I paddled more than twice. That being said, I was hoping to put a fin on that was a good of all trades - one that allowed just paddling, but would also work with some small surf (Typically 1-4 feet). I understand you get trade offs with jacks of all, but right now I am just trying to get started.

I also saw the fin boxes that appear to allow the switch out of fins for a variety of conditions/activities. Perhaps this is an option?

I have done a lot of reading on the role the base, surface area etc... plays, but again, I just don't have any base experience to know for myself. Unfortunately I don't have any surf shops close that I could have a conversation with.

I am sure there are a lot of questions still needed to give sound advice so please ask away and I will fill them in. Thanks a ton... much appreciated

Dillon

One that I am looking at is the FCS2 Slater Trout... reviews seem to be hitting all the points I am looking for. But would this fin be interchangeable in a fin box? How does that work? has to be the same brand or...? Thanks

Yes it would be interchangeable and it works like shown in this vid.

The Slater Trout fin is a nice fin but it's more suited to flat water paddling. IMO.

If you plan to surf your board the 9 or 10" longboard shape (dolphin shape) fin is what I'd recomend. (just like the one in the vid)