Make sure the nose is sitting pretty low... when paddling... Only the first few inches of nose should be out of the water...
Also, when lying prone, and paddling for a wave, reach up the board as far as you can, paddle hard and strong, and long strokes. Bring your hands down close under the board,... each hand should pass under your
nipple and testicle!

Thumb can almost be scraping against the board... (under-side)... This style stroke might give you more power, and more wave count... ???