Exploring the Untouched: Matt Rode's Quest for Secret Surf Spots

Apr 24, 2024 · Comments

As a seasoned surfer and journalist, Matt Rode has dedicated his career to exploring the world's hidden surf spots. In a recent talk story with David, Matt shared his fascinating journey of discovering remote and untouched waves, giving us a glimpse into the life of a true surf adventurer and the exciting project he's leading called "Maps to Nowhere."

Chasing the Endless Summer

Matt's work with Hawaiian South Shore and Surfline has allowed him to pursue his passion for finding new surf spots around the globe. "It's like the modern version of the Endless Summer," he explains, referring to the iconic surf film that inspired generations of wave-chasers.

Exploring the Untouched: Matt Rode’s Quest for Secret Surf Spots

Photo courtesy: Surfline

The "Maps to Nowhere" Project

Matt is currently leading a project for Surfline called "Maps to Nowhere," which aims to explore new and lesser-known surf areas around the world. "They knew that I've been doing a lot of exploring on my own for years and so they asked me if I would be interested in leading the project," he says.

The goal? To create feature-length films that document the quest for undiscovered surf spots around the globe.

The Art of Scouting Surf Spots

With so much of the planet already explored, Matt has had to get creative in his search for undiscovered waves. "These days, so much of the planet has been surfed and explored, you kind of have to look at areas that don't get as much swell if you want to find something new," he says. Matt's process involves meticulously studying swell patterns, coastlines, and bathymetry to pinpoint potential surf spots. "I just systematically wait for the right swells and go out there and check them all and scout, just scouting all the time," he explains.

Matt acknowledges that not every surf trip is a success. Often, he arrives at a location only to find no swell or unfavorable conditions. That's why he always travels prepared with various craft, from longboards to foils and shortboards, ready to make the most of whatever waves he encounters. It's all part of the adventure, where some trips are "skunks" and others are "scores."

Embracing the Challenges of Big Wave Surfing

Matt's passion for exploration has also led him to tackle some of the world's most challenging big wave spots, such as Mavericks in California. While he may not have won the Wipeout of the Year award, he's had his fair share of harrowing experiences in the lineup. "Even if you get dragged 100 yards underwater, you're not going to take a two-wave hold down unless you're under for more than 25 or 30 seconds," Matt says, emphasizing the importance of staying calm and focused during big wave hold-downs. By distracting the mind, the time spent underwater feels much shorter, making it easier to hold one's breath until reaching the surface.

Photo courtesy: Surfline

Expanding the Surf Frontier in Japan

In addition to his work with Surfline, Matt has also been exploring opportunities in Japan, a country renowned for its world-class snow sports. Together with his partner Kilty, Matt is planning to launch yoga and adventure retreats, combining his love for surfing and snowboarding. "We really love it there, we want more excuses to be there," Matt says, hinting at the endless possibilities that await in the Land of the Rising Sun.

Matt Rode's passion for surf exploration and his dedication to the "Maps to Nowhere" project are truly inspiring. Through his adventures, he not only uncovers new surf spots but also captures the spirit of exploration that has driven surfers for generations.

As we eagerly await the upcoming episodes of the series, one thing is certain: Matt's quest for secret surf spots continues, taking us on a journey to the most remote and untouched corners of the world.

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