How to Catch and Surf More Waves: Timing, Positioning & Mindset Mastery
If you’re missing more waves than you’re catching, it’s time to shift your approach. Discover the drills, mindset shifts, and positioning strategies that will turn frustration into flow.
Introduction
You paddle, you commit… and the wave rolls right past.
Sound familiar?
Missing waves is the most common frustration in surfing - and the most limiting. You can’t surf what you don’t catch. And yet, most of what’s taught in surf culture focuses on what happens after you’re on the wave.
This article flips that script.
Here’s how to master the three pillars of wave catching: timing, positioning, and mindset - drawn from years of surf coaching, athlete interviews, and real-world experience shared on the Surf Mastery Podcast.
1. The Real Reason You’re Missing Waves
As Surf Mastery host Michael Frampton shares in Episode 109:
“I’d paddle for waves, miss them, and feel this deep frustration… even shame. I realized something had to change - not just my technique, but my approach.”
The breakthrough came by treating wave catching as a skill of its own, not just a means to an end.
2. Timing Drill: Catch Without Paddling
Coach Linton Fafie suggests one of the most effective drills for developing wave sense:
“Catch waves by watching them come in and jumping onto your board. That teaches timing, rhythm, and awareness better than anything else.”
- Episode 80
Try this: In waist-deep whitewater, wait for the wave, then jump onto your board at the exact moment it hits. No paddling. Just feel. Build that internal rhythm.
3. Mindset: Kill the Shame, Keep the Reps
Many surfers hesitate out of fear - of falling, looking silly, or being judged.
Frampton again:
“Go where no one’s watching. Remove shame from the equation, and progress comes faster.”
- Episode 109
Confidence is built by reps, not reputation. Fall early. Paddle often. Shame is optional.
4. Positioning: Where the Magic Happens
Devon Howard’s “triangulation method” offers a clear way to dial in your positioning:
“Watch where the wave breaks, how others line up, and how you’re drifting. Use multiple references to adjust constantly.”
- Episode 124
Being just 1–2 meters off the mark is often the difference between glory and going over the falls.
5. Paddling Strategy: Speed with Stability
Rob Case outlines the most common paddling mistake:
“Yawing - when your board rocks side to side. Efficient paddling is stable, streamlined, and timed.”
- Episode 12
No need to thrash. Paddle early, paddle straight, and stay calm.
6. Tap Into Ocean Energy
Coach Clayton Nienaber reminds us:
“You’re sitting in potential energy. The wave turns it into kinetic energy. Your job is to tap into that - not fight it.”
- Episode 66
Done right, catching waves should feel like sliding with the wave - not muscling against it.
7. Progression by Skill Level
Beginner
Practice no-paddle timing in whitewater
Observe waves from the shore
Ride soft tops in empty zones
Intermediate
Sprint paddle drills
Vary takeoff angles and entry points
Record yourself and review takeoffs
Advanced
Use triangulation in crowded lineups
Master micro-adjustments in positioning
Teach others what you’ve learned
Final Thoughts: The Confidence-Catching Loop
“Exceptional accuracy in reading and anticipating waves is a key trait of master surfers.”
- Dr. John Demartini, Episode 17
Wave catching is more than a skill - it’s a mindset shift. Every wave you catch builds confidence. Every wave you miss is feedback. Show up. Adjust. Repeat.
👣 Want Help Catching More Waves?
If you’re ready to upgrade your timing, positioning, and pop-up technique, check out the Surf Mastery Mini Course - a no-BS guide to the 99% of surfing that happens before you're on your feet. https://surfmastery.com/surf-mastery-method-info