It all started with the fish when the innovative shapers and board builders out there decided to revisit the past for some inspiration. In doing so they brought back some lost skills such as resin tints and hand foiled fins.The Fish Fry has been a place for these fine craftsmen to showcase their skills. We have seen some amazing boards as shapers have pushed the boundaries over the last few years. As this new look at the fish has evolved to its many forms, it has influenced other shapes and designs along the way.This has spawned a renewed interest in other board forms by this same group and a wider following.Notably the Mini Simmons, Hulls, old school Logs and Pigs. It is pleasing to note that there are an increasing number of people building their own boards as well.All of this is to be applauded and celebrated as a positive for surfing.So it is only natural that these shapers and board builders continue to share their skills with us and include these other shapes at the Fish Fry.It has truly become a melting pot of ideas for like minded people.

Jeff Bickerstaff's new fish for next years Alley Fish Fry...





Local Auckland builder Jeff Bickerstaff who came over for this year's Fish Fry has just sent me these shots of his second hand-shaped board. A 6ft 7" x 21 3/4" wide Quad. It looks like he has done a great job for his second effort and I hope he gets some time over Christmas to catch a few waves. Jeff is planning on bringing his wife over next year to enjoy the Gold Coast and catch up again at the 2009 Fish Fry. This is what it's all about, getting together , seeing what others are doing and taking a board or two out for a surf  then going home inspired to put your thoughts into action and building a board for yourself that expresses where you want to be. There is only one  better feeling than getting a new board and that is shaping one yourself. Jeff you know that feeling. Good on you mate and thanks for your support. See you in the park Sunday 8th March 2009.