Waco Surf - How Tos for your Surf Session

The easiest way to maximize your wave count is by getting into position as soon as your session starts.

There are three zones that you need to know about:
Zone 1: You’re at the takeoff spot, ready for the incoming set.
Zone 2: You just caught a set and are paddling back out or waiting against the wall.
Zone 3: You’re on deck in the shallows near the wall, straight out from the #4.

At the start of your session, the Surf Team will send one of the groups to Zone 1 to catch the first set. The rest of the groups will wait on deck in Zone 3.

After each set, the Surf Team will send the next group to Zone 1 to get into position, and the group that caught the last set will move to Zone 2, before making their way to Zone 3, and finally back to Zone 1 to catch their next set. Rinse and repeat for your whole session.

Catching Waves

Different waves have different takeoff spots. The Surf Team will help you get lined up but you’ll typically be about six feet off the wall when you’re in position.

Once you’re in position, look for your wave approaching as the water drops out along the wall. As soon as you see it, turn and paddle at a 45-degree angle away from the wall, pointing the nose of your board at the large stadium lights in the corners of the lagoon. Once up and riding, you’ll be surfing towards the wall, which might seem weird at first, but it won’t after a wave or two.

Once you kick out, just paddle back toward the lineup against the wall, where you won’t be in the way of the next group. Once you make it back to the take-off zone and the current set is finished, paddle to Zone 3.

If you get flushed into the shallows by your wave, head in to the ridge and walk back to the on-deck area.

Basic Etiquette

Over time, you might find that you like one wave in the set over another. Talk with your group to set an order before paddling to the take-off zone. Be flexible and give every wave a shot!

If you fall on your wave, it’s your responsibility to get out of the way of the surfers behind you quickly and safely.