How to Set Up a Jet Ski for Offshore Fishing (Complete Build Guide)
Watch the full build walkthrough below, then scroll for a detailed breakdown.
Setting up a jet ski for offshore fishing requires more than just basic gear. In this guide, we cover the complete offshore jet ski fishing setup — including fuel systems, electronics, safety equipment, and real-world upgrades that make a difference.
After years of refining multiple setups, my recent build is designed to cover every base — from fuel range and electronics to safety and fishability. Here’s a complete breakdown of how to set up a jet ski for offshore fishing, and why each component matters.
Choosing the Best Jet Ski for Offshore Fishing
The foundation of any offshore fishing setup is the ski itself.
For this build, the Yamaha FX-HO platform was chosen for one simple reason — reliability offshore.
- Proven durability over hundreds of hours
- Stable in rough water and bar crossings
- Strong aftermarket support for accessories
When you’re fishing offshore, especially in surf and unpredictable conditions, stability and reliability aren’t optional — they’re critical.
Fuel Range: Extending Your Offshore Capability
Offshore trips can easily exceed 100km (60+ miles) round trips, so range is essential.
This setup includes:
- Standard 70L tank
- Additional 40L auxiliary tank
👉 Total: 110 litres of fuel capacity
This provides:
- confidence to travel further
- flexibility to explore new ground
- reduced stress on return trips
The FXHo fully loaded gets around 1.7km to the litre, so my effective range works out to be around 185km
Dual Battery System (A Must for Offshore Fishing)
One battery = one point of failure.
This setup uses:
- dual batteries
- A/B switching system
- voltage-sensing relay (VSR)
This allows:
- switching between batteries per trip to "wear" equally
- automatic charging of both batteries
- backup power if one fails
👉 Offshore, this is a critical safety upgrade
Tow Tap - an Essential Safety Upgrade
A tow tap prevents water being forced into the engine if you have to be towed. Manufacturers of all ski brands recommend that skis under tow need to stick to under 8 knots (14Km/hr) to avoid the possibility of water being forced into the engine cylinders. .
Without a Tow Tap :
- towing speed is limited
- engine damage is possible
With it:
- safer and faster recovery
- peace of mind offshore
This is strongly recommended by marine rescue organizations. Can you imagine if you do break down 50km or more from the ramp, and the rescue service has to stick to under 8knots? 50km would take around 4hrs to get you back!
Navigation Lights (Legal & Practical)
If you’re launching before sunrise (which most offshore fishers do), proper lighting is required.
This setup includes:
- fixed red/green lights at the front
- removable 360° white light at the rear
The rear light is removable to avoid interference while fishing — a simple but important usability improvement.
VHF Radio (Communication Offshore)
A marine VHF radio is non-negotiable offshore.
Mounted carefully to avoid water exposure, this allows:
- communication with other vessels
- emergency contact if needed
Handheld VHF radios have very limited power (5W) so also do not have a very good range, especially in swell offshore. Install a 25W VHF radio with a decent antenna for safety.
Electronics & Sounder Setup
A major upgrade in this build was moving to a more powerful sounder:
- Garmin 953 XSV
- paired with GT51 transducer
This provides:
- better performance in deeper water
- clearer readings in rough conditions
- ability to record screen video
Protecting this investment is critical — especially with a quality fish finder cover.
Use a high-quality fish finder cover to shield from salt, sun, and spray. Get yours here!
Rod Holder Positioning - Great upgrade!
Rod placement makes a huge difference when trolling.
This setup uses:
- forward-mounted rod holders for trolling
- rear rod holders when you are drift fishing or using multiple rods
Benefits:
- easier to monitor rods
- quicker hook-ups
- safer handling while underway
Storage, Stability & Safety -Tubbies Setup
One of the biggest upgrades for jet ski fishing is adding external storage pods (commonly known as "Tubbies").
They provide:
- large increase of storage capacity for fishing gear as well as up to a 1.5M Fish Bag for your trophy fish!
- improved stability
- mounting points for accessories
Included in this setup:
- Live bait tank (plumbed from water scoop)
- Sealed storage bottle
The sealed bottle is used for:
- safety gear
- flares
- first aid
- jump starter
👉 This keeps critical gear dry and accessible offshore.
Seat Covers - Unique Upgrade!
Originally added for protection, seat covers turned out to provide:
- protection from hooks and sharp tools
- improved comfort (extra cushioning)
- reduced heat transfer from engine bay
A small upgrade — but one that makes long offshore days far more comfortable.
Sea-doo Fish Pro Seat Covers link here
Why No Trolling Motor?
Trolling motors are popular — but not always necessary offshore.
Reasons for skipping it:
- high cost
- limited benefit in current-heavy offshore conditions
- alternative techniques (slow circling to maintain position)
👉 Sometimes simpler = more practical.
Final Thoughts: Building a True Offshore Fishing Machine
There’s no single “perfect” setup — but the goal is always the same:
👉 reliability
👉 safety
👉 efficiency
👉 fishability
Every component in this build serves a purpose, and together they create a highly capable offshore fishing platform.
Summary of Key Setup Essentials
- Extended fuel range
- Dual battery system
- Reliable electronics
- Proper storage and safety gear
Ready to Upgrade Your Own Setup?
Browse our range of gear built for real saltwater conditions — including sounder covers, accessories, and fishing bundles designed for serious anglers.
- protect your electronics
- improve storage and safety
- optimise your fishing layout
👉 Browse our complete range of gear designed for real offshore conditions.
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About the Author
Paul Hayes is the creator of Jetcast, a YouTube channel and online store focused on offshore jet ski fishing, marine electronics protection, and real-world fishing gear. After spending nearly 10 years fishing offshore from personal watercraft around Australia, Paul combines hands-on experience with detailed product testing and practical fishing techniques designed for harsh saltwater conditions.
Through Jetcast videos, guides, and product reviews, he aims to help more people safely experience the excitement, freedom, and adventure of offshore fishing from jet skis and small watercraft.