The Chase Fisher Interview

So tell us, what is Chase Fisher all about?

Here today gone tomorrow, story of my life. SD could be my second home if I had nine lives. Santa Barbara bred, but with a world of experiences. Honestly Honest. Straight Forward with Z time to waist. Sense of humor....I think so. Lost cause at times but generally my head is on damn near straight. I have been “that guy” before and am sure I will be him again. Stylish and creative in a way. Fast paced with a million ideas. My view on life, “I am better than no-one, and no-one is better than me. Give respect where it is due, and the same will be given to you.” My eyes have seen much of the world and there is still so much to learn........... I hang out with some of the sickest people alive (you know who you are), I party harder than some, but less than others, which keeps me believing I’m in good shape. When looking at any less-than-perfect situation I always remember this, “it’s not that good, BUT IT’S NOT THAT BAD.” So the only thing left is for me to be completely honest with all of you, this way at least you know what your getting yourself into……………… I’M NOT GONNA LIE………IT’S GONNA GET A LITTLE WEIRD.

Who are your current sponsors and what are you looking for in that regard?

Right now I’m with Flojos, XS-Energy, Liquid Eyewear, As{One}, Fineline Surfboards, and A-Frame Surf Shop. I’ve developed great relationships with these companies who have given me an immense amount of support. Sponsors act partly as a mentor. It forms a system of communication between the rider and the companies. It not only enables more opportunities in the sport but gives you insight into the world of business.

I hear you grew up in Santa Barbara. What are your favorite spots up in SB?

Yeah, Santa Barbara was a killer place to grow up. I surfed my local break which was right down the street from my house. As groms me and my buddies would watch local legends like Bobby Martinez and Curren surf there and develop into world class surfers. It is a fun punchy beach break which usually breaks on any type of swell.

Growing up, who were the guys that you looked up to both locals and ‘CT bros?

I would always look up to my friends who were both educated in and out of the water. Most of the older locals were college dropouts and didn’t have any goals or desires to better their life. When I was a kid, I’d always idolize the big names like Parko, Fanning and Slater but as I got into surfing more and more, I started looking at the younger guys like Dane and Mike Losness. They have been the ones I’ve been watching very closely.

Who would you say has had the biggest influence on your style?

I would have to say my mom. She really understands my style as a surfer and a person. She’s got me into a whole new scene of music the past couple of years. I usually listened to mostly rock and punk but now she introduced me to a whole new world of electronica, new age, and industrial beats.

So what are you up to in San Diego and where are you surfing the most these days?

I’m loving it down here. It’s basically just like Santa Barbara on steroids. More places to surf, warmer water, more girls, and all around more action. I got some great roommates, that I’ve yet to teach how to surf. I’m going to school full time, surfing everyday, and recently just took up boxing. I’ll normally paddle out at “The Drive” which is real close to my house.

What boards are you currently riding?

I just switched up my equipment this past summer. I met Brian Hilbers who is the head shaper for Fineline Surfboards. He shaped me two boards right off the bat which certainly helped my surfing. I’m currently on a 6.0 squash.

Give us the low-down on one of your recent surf trips?

My most recent international surf trip was the summer of ‘06. I surfed over in Italy which was unbelievable. I met up with Allessio who was the Italian surf champ at the time. He showed me around and took me to some pretty rad spots. Ever since I moved down to San Diego, I’ve been caught up with school and havn’t had much time to travel. However, I got a trip to Mexico booked right before Christmas which should be killer.

What are the main competitions you are competing in these days?

Right now, I’m doing a couple of No Fear contests and local San Diego events. I’ve been more involved with photo projects lately, trying to line up ads with sponsors for the ‘08 season. Last year was a solid year for me. I got some decent wins under my belt and want to step up my game in ‘08 with the SD Monster Energy tour.

What is the newest trick you learned or are working on?

I’ve been trying to get more in the air lately. I’ve always looked beyond airs and thought it was sloppy surfing, but aerials have started to become the major progression of the sport.

What are your goals for the future?

I want to graduate from San Diego State, and stay in Southern California. I also want to fall in love, get married and start a family. I would like to be happy and surf everyday as well as travel as much as possible.

What is your advice to the up and coming groms who have yet to score their first sponsor?

Go for it guys! Don’t let anyone tell you otherwise. Set yourself apart from the others, communicate and the rest will follow.