I became obsessed with the marine industry when I was just 7-years old. Today I’m thrilled to share my knowledge online. When I’m not out there riding, I’m engaging with industry trends and eagerly helping people get more time-freedom online so they can spend more time out there riding their jet skis around.
I started this resource to share my knowledge of jet ski ownership with those around the world. When I'm not out there riding, I'm engaging with industry trends and eagerly awaiting the development of electric jet skis.
Have you ever wondered if you’re truly safe out there? If you’re going jet ski fishing for instance, you’re idling and stationery for hours on end.
Is there an animal lurking below looking for the opportunistic moment to launch up and rip you off your jet ski, tumble you down under the water…and have you listed as missing without a trace?
Unlikely.
Generally speaking, crocodiles and sharks don’t attack jet ski riders, even those who are anchored or are idle in the water. Very few cases have been recorded and it’s generally when the riders jump off their jet ski and into the water for a swim. For such animals, the large shape of the jet ski appears concerning, yet it’s possible that a seated rider could still be attacked.
In this guide, we’ll help you stay safer out there on the waterways.
Big Animals Attacking Jet Ski Riders
It’s both the media outlets and Hollywood that like to create ‘what if’ scenarios in our heads. The type that makes us search online for possible answers in a state of wonder late at night. We think to ourselves ‘what if I’m out there all alone and I’m ripped off my jet ski’.
Well, let me put some confidence in your mind. It’s very unlikely that this is going to happen.
Firstly – dangerous animals in the ocean aren’t all that common. Every morning, hundreds of thousands of surfers jump in the ocean yet we only hear of the odd shark attack.
Of course when we do, our comes the knee-jerk reactions from the media and governments ‘Oh the horror!’.
Secondly – you’re at the top of the food chain out there. A jet ski itself looks intimidating to any animal even if the engine is off. Chances are that they can’t really see your legs that well and it’s quite a stretch for them to launch up.
Sharks
Sharks generally don’t jump up in the air. They belong in the waterways and even then seldomly attack surfers. In most cases, it’s a case of mistaken identity as a surfer looks like a seal.
Essentially we haven’t heard of any case studies of jet ski riders or even boaters being pulled in. We think you would be more vulnerable on a stand-up jet ski anyway, especially around bull sharks in murky waters.
Crocodiles
Right – crocodiles are amphibious and exist both in the water and on land. When we’re talking about crocodiles, we’re talking the aggressive saltwater crocodiles of Australia and allegators of North America. As a result, a case could be made that jet ski riders are at risk.
We just think that risk is very low. Most crocodiles aren’t the type that launch themselves out of the water. Those that do have done this as a trained response to tour boats doing live feedings to tourists.
Falling Off Your Jet Ski
The biggest risk isn’t merely idling in one spot but falling off your jet ski. It’s in this moment of panic that you wonder if there is some sharp teeth heading your direction, with the theme music playing in your mind.
We would recommend that you take it a bit more slowly on days when there is high chop on the ocean. And if you do fall off, you’d want to be swimming back pretty quickly.
Protection Devices
You can certainly buy sonar shark deflectors these days and anti-shark wetsuits. Jet ski riders seldomly carry these especially in well-populated areas given that the risk of attack is quite low, but they’re out there for peace of mind.
You could buy one and take it with you. Should you fall off your jet ski, then you’ll be able to swim back to the rear boarding ladder without your heart beating at 200 beats per minute.
In Summary
Crocodiles and sharks are the least of your worries out there. I’m always more worried about other boaters and jet ski riders, to be honest. People are your biggest threat out there as well as the developing weather conditions. If anything, a sea snake or seal is much more likely to board your jet ski than any of these biggest animals.
I guess I trust animals much more than humans. Just be smart about where you swim and if you know there is excessive animal activity in one area, then give it a wide berth!
When you’re heading out there on a jet ski fishing adventure, the last thing you’ll want is to wish you had something that you don’t have. Worst still – to see another rider out there with *that* thing that you really wish you had, yet are afraid to ask about.
Fortunately, we’ve done the hard work for you. We’ve compiled a list here of the most popular accessories that jet ski riders from around the world use when heading out on a fishing trip, so you can be the coolest person on the water this weekend.
From rod holders to coolers and bait buckets, you’ll find it all here.
Let’s begin.
Best Accessories for Jet Ski Fishing
If you’re just getting started with fishing from your PWC, then we recommend that you bookmark this page and share it with others. You know, some say that sharing this guide increases your chance of hooking a 100-pound monster by 27.6%. 😉
Anyway, here are 12 fishing items that you can get fitted to your jet ski:
Yep, the #1 most crucial thing that you’ll need out there is some rod and cooler holders. The type that is custom-made to your jet ski model.
You’ll find these on Amazon but most commonly you’ll find local boilermakers or hobbyists making these. Check the local riding Facebook groups to see who’s able to make one up for you.
Generally speaking, you can expect 3 to 4 rocket launchers plus a large opening to store your cooler of choice. It’s best to know which cooler you’ll want to use first as the frames are really built around the cooler itself.
In addition to having a rear-mounted fishing tower, you can get one fitted on the front too. These are custom-made in most cases and less popular since they can void your warranty and might cause insurance dramas.
Why get one? There are times when having too many rods at the rear might get frustrating as you’re crossing over lines. I like to have one rod slotted into the port side and another on the starboard side, with 2 lines running off the rear. That means that I’m pretty well covered.
The only pain comes when trying to clean my jet ski at the end of the day but it’s something I’m willing to live with.
Chances are that you’re going to want to go the distance and that’s where taking some additional fuel is necessary. When you’re trolling all day then you’ll be surprised by how much fuel you’ll actually consume.
Later on this list is an idea for an electric trolling motor, but if you don’t intend to get this then you’ll benefit with some additional fuel cans. This is assuming you’ve got a performance-oritentated jet ski like a GTR230. Something like the GTI130 won’t really need auxillary fuel tanks since it’s very economical.
4. Coolers for Storing Fish
Obviously you’re heading out there because you’re going to want to catch a prize! Most of us fish to eat so you’ll want somewhere to store your catch….and certainly one that’s big enough.
I’ve seen too many jet ski fisherman buy a cooler that’s simply too small for the job. Go for the largest you can and buy the cooler first before you get the mount made up.
There are two types of coolers. Those that are cheap and those that are expensive. The expensive type is designed to keep your fish (or whatever else you store in it) cold with ice for days when out camping. Given that you’ll be back at the ramp before sunset in most cases, the cheaper varieties will suit you just fine.
Yep, you’re going to want to get a fish finder and GPS combo. This is not just to help you find where they’re biting, but also to help you get home safely afterwards.
My weapon of choice is the Garmin Striker Plus 4 with Transducer. It’s quite affordable compared to some of the mainstream marine GPS units that I’ve come across over the years, and it’s quite reliable too with strong ratings/reviews online.
The tricky part is finding a spot to mount it. When riding, I keep it strapped to my wrist then strap it to the rear rod holders once the lines are in the water. Works for me.
6. Jet Ski to Boat Converter
Have you seen those crazy contraptions that have come out these last few years? I initially laughed when I started seeing them pop up at the boat ramp but now I’m impressed. The wonders of technology…
These converts can either be inflatable or fiberglass. Both have their pros and cons but overall they do massively increase the otherwise limited real estate on the rear of any modern-day jet ski, even if it’s a 3-seater.
Now I don’t use one myself but my advice is to talk to those to use them already. They’ll let you know if they’re worth it or a decision to retreat. Often you’ll see these come up for sale on Craigslist/Gumtree for half their retail price if you’re seeking a bargain.
I like to mount a couple of soft (yet waterproof) storage bags to the front sides of my jet ski when fishing. While yes I do have the front storage lockers, I don’t want my smelly fish hands reeking out the front lockers, so that’s where these storage bags come in handy.
They’re easy to wash and keep clean, and I store bait in them as well as lures too, or even some burley. It’s just super easy to reach forward and slide my hand inside.
Some of us get severely burnt out there on a clear blue day and so installing a bimini over our jet ski makes all the difference. These don’t want allow you to either ride fast or stand up entirely, but they sure as heck make the difference between a good day and a great day.
Sadly, they’re not so popular so you’ll have to hunt to find a manufacturer. A lot of guys I know actually buy a bimini for a tinny/aluminum boat and then have it custom-fit to their jet ski. Yes, this will require some drilling and yes, you’ll probably void the warranty but that sure as heck is much better than developing skin cancer! This is something I’m looking into at the moment actually.
Can you go big game fishing with your jet ski? You sure as heck can! It’s always been an awkward situation when you catch a large fish more than 2 feet long and can’t quite fit it in the cooler and there’s no where else to store it. Solution? Rescue board.
I’ve seen these guys do this successfully on YouTube. Finding a rescue board is relatively easy and you’ll find them used on Craigslist/Gumtree where they have previously been used in surfing competitions or local surf life saving clubs.
They are a bit expensive so you may be able to make one at home with some old life jackets. Likewise the one shown above is actually inflatable so you can keep it in the front locker or under the rear cooler and inflate only if you really need it.
A weird one to add to this list, but worth while. I like to have a glove clip or two located on my ski. Ideally it’s best to have one at the front and one at the rear. I’ll explain…
You’ll probably be riding between multiple fishing areas in a day and you’ll switch between riding mode and fishing mode. It’s a different type of gloves for both so you’ll want to clip your gloves somewhere. This then makes this accessory one of the most underrated out there!
One thing that I’ve seen very few guys do is fit an electric trolling motor to their jet ski. By using your main engine, not only do you burn more gas than you’ll like, but you’re causing a noise disturbance which stops the fish from biting.
Now – don’t expect much in the way of speed. If anything, it’ll stop the tidal/current push and you’ll be able to hang in one area for prolonged periods of time. Mounting the battery in the shade under the cooler would be the best option, but you’ll also want to ensure it’s electrically safe too.
Most guys forget this, but having a jet ski anchor in the front locker is super helpful. I actually take 2 anchors with me; one for the front and one for the fear. This stops me swinging around constantly and the risk fo tangling lines.
Given the relatively affordable price of these, I’d definitely buy two of ’em . The rope doubles as a tow rope if you or someone else gets stuck out there!
In Summary
There we have it! Some of the most highly regarded accessories worth fitting to your jet ski today. Creating this list wasn’t easy and I had to drawn upon my experience and feedback from some buddies I know.
Did I miss anything? Let me know! Otherwise I’ll catch you out there.
One thing is for sure is that jet skis are expensive. You gotta pay the dealer a fortune, then you’re up for registration, insurance and fuel. Then you’ll need to do routine servicing if you want any hope in actually selling your ride in the future when you upgrade.
And maintenance certainly isn’t something that you can skip either. The last thing you’ll want to do is break down out there in the middle of nowhere, with miles between you and the next vessel.
Maritime Laws do vary from country to country, but one thing is for sure: Your personal watercraft must be seaworthy at all times.
A Guide for Do It Yourself Jet Ski Maintenance
I’ve written this guide for beginner jet ski owners looking to save a few dollars, however there is an important point that I need to make here. That is – this isn’t a replacement for a proper service by a mechanic every few months.
Think of this as more of a preventative maintenance guide. It’ll help you save some dollars, prolong the life of your jet ski and keep your ski in the best condition possible.
While washing down after each ride takes about 20 minutes, it’s best to set aside 3 to 5 hours to get through all of this once per month. Doing so will reduce the huge expenditure from your jet ski mechanic.
1. Washing Down Your Jet Ski
It’s important to wash down your jet ski after each ride. This gets rid of the stuff that has no place inside your jet ski, including salt, sand and other foreign materials. Don’t be surprised if you come across small crustaceans during that time.
2. Flushing The Inside
This goes hand-in-hand with washing down your ski. You need to flush the insides when you’re washing it down and after each ride. Some guys do it at the boat ramp if there is a water supply tap, but otherwise, find your local carwash, gas station or take your ski home.
3. Changing Spark Plugs
Changing spark plugs on jet skis isn’t that difficult with numerous guides and YouTube tutorials taking you through the process. Both SeaDoo and Yamaha have their own unique specs and change intervals. If you can, learn how to do a compression test and then do a spark plug replacement without going too tight or lose with the tension.
4. Oil Changes
Just like your car, you can certainly change the oil on your jet ski. I’ve created a guide with the best jet ski oils to help you get the best longevity out of your engine. You’ll need yourself an oil siphon pump while your jet ski is on the trolley at home, though a trailer works well too.
5. Internal Checks
There are plenty of things that you can check on a DIY service. These include:
Check the steering and throttle cables which can often come loose.
Physical and visual check on all the hoses and retension clamps
Check the battery and ensure it’s secured well. Check the terminals.
If your ski has an intercooler, consider removing it by following a tutorial
Most importantly, pay attention to your pump, impeller and intake plate
In Summary
As I said, this is a guide only and doesn’t replace professional servicing from a dealership or aftermarket service workshop. There are times when just a minor check-up between intervals is necessary and this is what this guide is.
Your owner’s manual has specific instructions for your make and model of jet ski, and you may void your warranty by doing all the work yourself. In any case, by following this guide, you’ll be able to spot developing problems long before the next service is due.
Stay safe out there and I’ll see you on the water!
Have you been spotting those jet skis being towed up and down the Smith St Motorway, GC Highway or the M1 and are curious to know where they ride?
Well, I got you covered with this guide, even if you’re not out there riding just yet.
Best Jet Ski Riding Spots Gold Coast
I love the Gold Coast! Heck – I lived there for 4 years right on The Spit with hundreds of jet skis going past every weekend.
And while I moved up to the Sunny Coast, you can’t stop me from coming back month after month to find some epic riding.
When I lived in Southport, I was always out there looking for the next best spot to go riding and exploring. You wouldn’t ever see me list a ski with low hours. I’m out there to have fun!
Needless to say that this pretty well qualifies me to help you discover some good local places.
Sometimes I like to say that the Gold Coast is the jet ski capital of the world.
With the sales volume that goes through JSW Powersports monthly, I’d probably be on the mark there.
Anyway, you’re here for some places to ride this weekend. Let’s begin!
1. Southport to Tippler’s
Drop your ski in at Broadwater Parklands or across the seaway at Muriel Henchman (next to Sea World) and head out for a ‘Tippler’s Run’ with the return trip taking about an hour. Perfect for a beginner who’s unsure where to ride on their first time.
There is plenty of space in front of the cafe to pull up and anchor, though on weekends it can get a bit busy. If you’re doing a weekend ride then I’d be at the ramp by 8am before the locals and Brisbanites make their way down.
2. Tangalooma Run
The Tangalooma Run is almost like a monthly pilgrimage for local jet ski riders. It’s a decent trip so the rec-lite skis sometimes don’t have the fuel range, but most skis can make it there and back on 1 tank. You can do Jumpinpin Bar between North and South Stradbroke Island while you’re here.
Pack the snorkelling gear because there are some epic sights under the water here and the sharks/stingers are seldom found. The place gets busy on weekends so be mindful, with some riders preferring to beach their jet skis instead of anchoring.
If you’re not into swimming then you previously could have parked at the Tangalooma Island Resort for a bite to eat, after securing a Casual Day Visitor Pass. Unfortunately, they don’t allow non-staying (casual) guests anymore. There is a reserved spot to park boats and jet skis which is away from the swimming area.
I’ve created a separate article on the popular ‘Tangalooma Run’ here which includes the best boat ramps to launch from to reduce your fuel burn so you can do the trip in less than one tank.
3. The Spit and Coral Sea
After going through The Spit (look out for the surfers crossing to South Straddie), you can take your jet ski north or south depending on the conditions.
What I’d aim for is the wind direction. You’d want to go into a headwind and return on a tailwind…assuming you’re going out in the morning to mid-afternoon.
There are plenty of unrestricted riding (read: no speed limits) and you might even spot a whale! If you are heading out there then take an EPIRB as you never know.
Often riders get together and do a group run. This means that you’ll feel a bit safer. If you’re up for some thrills then look out for the jet ski riders jumping waves at South Straddie.
4. Tweed River and Terranora Creek
Right – this means you’re going quite a distance south, but the Tweed River has some good riding potential without the crowds. Speeds aren’t that fast and it isn’t so run, but well worth if if you’re needing something different.
The Tweed River is actually rideable right up to Murwillumbah though the water levels do drop considerably so keep that throttle relaxed.
Terranora Creek is certainly worth the visit too. It is tidal dependent so aim for the higher tides here and look out for the canoes and fishing lines.
5. Nerang River
You can certainly take your jet ski through the Nerang River and check out many of the canal homes, but some knot restrictions apply. You also won’t be able to go all that far, but clearly some people live here and leave their skis parked on their pontoons.
Bring your phone or a GPS because there are a lot (and I mean a lot) of canals to explore here. You might even want to go upstream past Benowa and even up to Nerang if you’re keen on a high tide.
Don’t go swimming anywhere near here as there the bullshark population is pretty high in the Gold Coast canals, with even some deaths over the years. You’re pretty safe on a ski though and even some people take their stand up paddleboards through here without an issue.
6. Coomera River
You can ride in the Coomera River but the council recently put up some more speed limits (argh…) which means it isn’t as fun as it used to be, but still worth a visit.
Chances are that you’ll come across many multi-million dollar homes. Some of Australia’s rich and famous actually live throughout here.
Keep in mind that there is a lot of traffic around these parts so keep the speeds down and reasonable. I’m not fond of the dirty water conditions so much here despite the fact that it’s pretty flat.
7. Logan River
You can certainly take your jet ski riding in the Logan River, though like the Coomera, the dirtiness of the water always has me a bit concerned about big logs lurking beneath. That said – there is a local group of riders who go here often to get away from the ritzy crowds. That same crew sometimes does a night run through the Brisbane River on their jet skis.
There are a lot of great islands worth exploring at its outlet and you’ll get some solitude and away from the traffic from the main channel. Also some good spots to pull up for a break or even a bite to eat up at Redland Bay.
Places You Can’t Ride
Right – how about some of the spots where you can’t ride. You know – the government red tape has made them illegal.
I’m not able to audit every single spot just yet (running this site has been a mission in itself) but here are some spots worth excluding from your list:
Hinze Dam. Jet skis aren’t welcome here nor are any boats apart from those paddlin’ or fishin’. It’s been like this for years.
Tallebudgera and Currumbin Creek. Correct me if I’m wrong, but I’m pretty sure are banned for jet skis to enter Tallebudgera and Currumbin Creek’s. However, you’re welcome if you have a house here on one of the canals and simply park your ski here on your own private floating dock. 6-knot limit applies.
As for crossing into NSW, here’s where you can’t ride jet skis:
Southern and western side of Ukerebagh Island
Kerosene Inlet (across from Tweed Hospital)
Cudgen Lake
Wommin Lake (Fingal)
Wommin Lagoon (Fingal)
Other Spots to Consider
While the Gold Coast has world-class riding areas for jet skis to let loose, you should hook up the trailer, throw a tent in the back and go exploring for a few days.
Somerset Dam, Lake Borumba and Moogerah Dam are great for jet skis though Lake Wivenhoe is certainly off-limits there. Heading up to the Sunny Coast is great or even down into Broadwater in NSW. I would avoid Noosa as the river itself is very restrictive to PWCs.
Final Thoughts
A safety note here is that jet ski riders have a bad name for themselves on the Gold Coast unfortunately due to a small minority simply not respecting the speed limits especially in some of the anchorages. Keep an eye on those signs!
Also, it costs just $77/year to join VMR Southport and it’s well worth it in my opinion, with these thoughts echoed by a lot of local riders. Their response range is pretty extensive from Point Danger in the south (on the NSW border) right up to Bribie Island, plus 30nm west which pretty much covers everywhere on this list.
Essentially, if your jet ski breaks down out there on the waterways then VMR will tow you back free of charge as a member. Remember that VMR = Volunteer Marine Rescue so the members give up their weekends unpaid for the safety of all waterway users, and the fees go towards their small fleet of boats which you’ll find at the outlet of Loders Creek.
Finally – have I missed anything here? I’m aiming to make this the best guide for Gold Coasters to get out there and explore responsibly. After all, we want to advocate for keeping these spots open to all.
I always like to say that Queensland is the world capital for jet ski ownership. Every time I see one on the M1/Bruce Highway, I smile. I know they’re off to forget the week that was…and go and have some serious fun!
I recently moved to the Sunshine Coast and had to do a ton of research to find good places to ride. Fortunately for you, it’s so much easier after I created this guide.
Best Jet Ski Riding Areas on the Sunny Coast
We’re really spoilt here to have some of the best places to ride jet skis anywhere in Australia.
As a Queenslander, and even someone who now happens to live on the Sunshine Coast, I’m well-positioned to help you discover where you can go riding on this beautiful spot.
On this site, I’ve written extensively about jet ski ownership and places to go riding. I’ve done all this groundwork for you so you can spend more time out there riding and exploring, or even drop a line in the water.
So much to do and so little time. Let’s begin.
1. Maroochy River
One of my favourite places to explore is Maroochy River where you’ll find about 10km to 20km worth of navigational riding areas. This is of course dependent on the tide and she can get real shallow on a low tide, so look up those charts before you head for the ramp!
There is a 40-knot limit in some places and 25 in others, however the further up you go, the shallower she gets. Therefore, you’ll want to make sure that you’re only travelling as fast as you want to bottom out.
Keep in mind that the sand does shift and the charts aren’t perfectly accurate. Even the multiple channel markers upstream from the Sunshine Coast Motorway bridge aren’t accurate and I’ve touched the sand even when riding in the middle.
2. Noosa River / Lake Cootharaba
After a trip or two, you’ll probably get bored of the Maroochy River. Sure – it’s great and uber convenient, but Noosa is the next best spot. Actually, you’ll find it the best spot if you live north of Mudjimba anyway.
There are numerous boat ramps here to launch though they get busy on weekends due to the Brisbanites coming up, so get in before 8am. There are also lots of tourists boat out there on the water in the Tewantin area so be mindful, and I’d aim to ride an hour on either side of high tide.
Look out for those channel markers and speed limits too. The water police do patrol this area quite often looking for anyone they can ticket on the spot. You can then ride up to Inskip Point on a calm day.
Essentially, riding jet skis in Lake Cootharaba, Lake Weyba and Lake Cooroiba is off the cards.
3. South of Caloundra
The last on my list is perhaps one of the best. Drop your ski in the water at Golden Beach or Pelican Waters and you’ll have much more to explore. This is the northern tip of Bribie Island so you’ll be protected from the ocean swell unless you head out into the ocean…then you’ll be contending with container ships!
There are quite a few uninhabited islands here worth exploring if you’re keen for a break, otherwise, you’ve got a lot more space than say Maroochy or Noosa. I can’t recall what the speed limits are here on jet skis but I think it’s 40-knots.
You can actually get right down to the bridge that connects Bribie Island to the mainland and even stop for some lunch at one of the numerous spots there including the famous Sandstone Point Hotel. In short, don’t leave the wallet at home!
Places You Shouldn’t Ride
I thought I’d list some of the spots where you wouldn’t necessarily ride. I mean – you can ride there as people do, but you won’t be able to have much fun as the speed limits are often 6 knots.
Mooloolaba River and the canals. While you’ll find numerous canal homes with jet skis on pontoons, the owners don’t necessarily ride in the river. Instead, they’re riding in one of these spots on weekends and simply storing their toys…though maybe not the safest option.
Birtinya Canals. Some story with Mooloolaba though the waterways here are a bit dirtier and well…full of bull sharks. Good for an hour of two worth of slow-speed exploring but not much else.
Extra Spots to Consider
If you’re a local and keen for a bit of an adventure, then I’d tow the ski up to Tin Can Bay, Rainbow Beach or even Inskip Point. This way you’ll be able to explore the entire Great Sandy Strait region on a jet ski which is much deeper than the Sunshine Coast rivers. No need to worry about the tides here!
While some guys do tow their jet skis on to Fraser Island, I wouldn’t really recommend it. There are no official boat ramps on Fraser Island either but some guys do beach launches though this can be sketchy for the novice riders amongst us.
Lastly – if you’re up for it – then consider a trip to Brisbane and explore Moreton Bay, or even the Gold Coast. Plenty of spots to explore and you’ll probably want to bring some extra fuel for the PWC. You can actually reach Tangalooma Island Resort from Golden Beach and Caloundra but take the western passage inside of Bribie Island to avoid the waves and the big ships coming out of the Port of Brisbane.
For freshwater, it’s hard to go past Lake Wivenhoe. Perfect for a daytrip but again…get there early!
Have I missed anything? Let me know as I’m keen to make this the go-to guide for Sunshine Coast locals to help make more places accessible.
