There’s nothing quite like watching a vintage PWC be reborn, and if you follow Green Hulk PWC’s Facebook page, you’ve likely seen your fair share of epic revivals over the years. Recently, the folks over at the Green Hulk Garage — Green Hulk’s personal space for working on, toying with, and improving the PWCs at their disposal — uploaded a tongue-in-cheek post about their newest accomplishment, which they’ve named “The Two-Stroke Twins.”

The watercraft in question are a matching pair of 1999 Sea-Doo XP Limiteds that have been fully brought back to life and modernized by Green Hulk’s Greg Gaddis. Both skis started as relics of an older era in Sea-Doo’s history, but through meticulous restoration and an eye for performance, Gaddis has transformed them into identical high-performance time capsules. The result is two mirror-image builds that perfectly balance nostalgia with innovation.

Each XP Limited comes loaded with upgrades from bow to stern: RIVA 32-inch handlebars paired with ODI grips offer ideal control and feel, while RIVA billet throttle levers bring precision to every pull. Jettrim seat covers and SC Wake traction mats complete the rider’s cockpit, delivering both style and functionality that match the skis’ legendary agility. Every piece, from the smallest fastener to the final finish, was hand-selected for performance, reliability, and aesthetic punch — and every last bit of it can be found through their online store.

It’s hard to believe that 1999 is already a quarter of a century ago, but laying an eye on these fully rebuilt, modded, and upgraded Sea-Doos takes you back in an instant. While Green Hulk has promised to try them out soon (with a little race involved), we’re just excited to see those old-school two-stroke engines back in action.

Be sure to check out the Green Hulk Garage Facebook page to stay up to date with their latest projects — and visit their shop whenever you’re ready to upgrade your own ride!

Whether you’re poking around the shallows or running miles offshore, every PWC outing carries inherent risk. The difference between a rewarding day on the water and a dangerous situation often comes down to preparation and mindset. In offshore jet ski fishing, you’re further from rescue, facing changing conditions, and dependent on your gear to protect you. That makes safety not just a checklist — it’s a lifeline.

Offshore fishing from a PWC isn’t the same as a lake ride. Some of the special challenges include distance from help — no nearby docks or passersby; you may be hours from rescue; changing weather and seas — conditions can shift rapidly, especially in open water; drift, current, and swell — without hull depth or mass, a PWC is more susceptible to drift; limited repair capacity — you can’t stow a full tool chest, and failure of a small part can strand you; communication gaps — cell phones often lose signal, so you need dedicated marine or satellite tools; and visibility and signaling challenges — in wide water, you must stand out for rescue.

Thus, your gear choices must be rugged, redundant, and optimized for offshore conditions. Boating Magazine recently published “Top 10 Safety Essentials for Offshore Jet Ski Fishing,” underscoring that these aren’t just nice-to-have items — they’re practically mandatory when you push beyond sight of land.

Boating Magazine kicks off their list with perhaps the most obvious but crucial piece of gear — a personal flotation device. They recommend the Mustang Survival Topwater PFD, a foam vest with built-in storage, lash tabs, and an ergonomic cut designed for comfort on long rides. We agree that a proper PFD is the cornerstone of offshore safety, and one that offers utility pockets and tool attachment points is even better. Both RIVA Racing and Broward Motorsports carry high-quality vests that fit the bill; Broward’s selection of Yamaha-branded life vests, for example, combines U.S. Coast Guard approval with all-day comfort and durability.

Their next essential is the ACR Personal Locator Beacon, specifically the ResQLink View RLS model, which transmits your GPS position to search and rescue satellites — and even lets you know when your signal’s been received. For anglers venturing far beyond cell coverage, this is a must-have. Always wear it on your PFD, not stashed in the storage bin. Check your battery life and registration each season, and consider carrying a second unit for redundancy if you frequently ride solo.

Boating Magazine also highlights the ACR LED Flare, which replaces traditional pyrotechnic flares with a bright, waterproof, and reusable light visible up to eight nautical miles. It’s a smart modern choice — safer, reusable, and much easier to pack. We’d pair it with a strobe light or signal laser to cover both night and day scenarios.

Another clever addition to their list is the Jet Tech Intake Recovery Tool — a compact, ceramic-reinforced nylon tool designed to clear rope or seaweed from your pump intake. Anyone who’s ever had to dive under their ski to pull out a wad of weeds mid-trip knows how valuable this can be. Keep it leashed somewhere accessible; you won’t want to dig through storage to find it when your ski’s dead in the water.

For communication, Boating recommends the Icom IC-M94D handheld VHF radio. It’s fully waterproof, floats, and includes DSC and GPS. That combination makes it indispensable offshore. The DSC (Digital Selective Calling) feature allows you to send a distress signal with your exact location — a literal lifesaver. Practice using it before you go out; knowing which buttons to hit under stress can make all the difference.

Their list continues with the ACR RAW Pro 2 Headlamp, a waterproof, hands-free light that’s ideal for predawn launches or nighttime returns. It’s a small piece of gear that pays off big in visibility and safety. Always carry extra batteries or a backup light, and consider adding glow sticks or reflective tape to your gear for additional visibility.

Anchoring offshore requires something compact and reliable, and the Jet Tech Offshore Anchor Kit fits the bill. It’s designed to hold your PWC steady if you lose power or need to fish over a specific reef. A floating anchor line helps prevent tangles and makes recovery easier. For anglers who spend time in deeper or rougher water, adding a small sea anchor or drift sock can help maintain position without overloading the craft.

To keep your tackle safe, Boating also recommends the Jet Tech Rod Holder Leash — a simple but essential safeguard. Even a small wave can send rods flying. Secure every rod, gaff, and net before heading offshore. Broward Motorsports carries several heavy-duty tethers and cargo tie-down systems, including Yamaha’s marine-grade bungee cords and ratchet straps, all designed to handle harsh saltwater use.

Fire safety can’t be overlooked either, which is why Boating’s list includes the Kidde Mariner PWC Fire Extinguisher. Compact and U.S. Coast Guard–approved, it’s a must-have for any powered watercraft. Store it in a quick-release bracket in an accessible location — seconds count when something goes wrong in a confined hull space.

Finally, the list rounds out with the Jet Tech PWC Recovery Tow Line, a 33-foot floating tow rope rated for over 1,000 pounds. If you’ve ever had a ski conk out miles from launch, you already know how vital this is. We recommend carrying a slightly longer line as well, with a quick-release shackle or carabiner for fast deployment in rough conditions. Both RIVA Racing and Broward Motorsports carry quality tow lines and recovery gear that can handle the abuse of open-water use.

Bonus Safety Measures and Gear to Consider

To build on that solid list, WCJ recommends a few additional measures for offshore riders. A compact, marine-grade power bank or battery pack can keep radios, lights, or phones charged in emergencies. An emergency repair kit with spare spark plugs, fuel line, hose clamps, duct tape, silicone sealant, and tools tailored to your PWC model can save a stranded day. Redundancy is critical, so a handheld GPS or magnetic compass and chart should accompany electronic devices.

Other helpful items include a small radar reflector or Class B AIS beacon to make your ski more visible to larger vessels, lightweight thermal protection or a dry top to prevent hypothermia, and plenty of drinking water plus emergency rations. Signaling mirrors or heliographs are useful in daylight, while a pre-filed route plan and check-in schedule with someone on shore ensures someone knows your location. If your PWC allows, a float-free EPIRB can provide automatic distress signaling even if your craft capsizes. And finally, practice drills — from man-overboard to radio distress — are just as important as any piece of gear.

Offshore PWC fishing is exhilarating — but you’re playing with bigger margins. The 10 essentials from Boating Magazine provide an excellent foundation. When you add smart redundancy, planning, and hands-on practice, safety gear becomes a confidence builder, not just a checklist. For anglers seeking top-tier gear, Broward Motorsports and RIVA Racing offer PFDs, marine radios, recovery lines, and other accessories that align with this list. Explore their catalogs to find equipment that meets both your safety needs and performance expectations.

If there’s one name that stands tall in the world of personal watercraft—whether you’re talking high-performance upgrades, precision tuning, or world-class customer service—it’s RIVA Motorsports. And right now, the legendary Deerfield Beach Superstore is turning heads again with a Manager’s Special that’s tough to beat: $2,000 off brand-new Yamaha EX WaveRunners.

The Yamaha EX Series has earned a reputation as one of the most dependable and fun-to-ride entries in the PWC world. Designed to deliver Yamaha’s proven performance and reliability at an unbeatable price point, the EX is ideal for first-time buyers, families, and weekend adventurers who want all the excitement without breaking the bank. Lightweight, agile, and easy to handle, it’s a machine that combines real-world affordability with the same engineering DNA that powers Yamaha’s high-end WaveRunners.

And when you buy from RIVA Motorsports, you’re getting far more than just a great deal—you’re buying into decades of excellence. As the retail face of the world-renowned RIVA Racing, the Deerfield Beach Superstore brings the same passion for performance that’s driven countless race wins and record-setting builds. From their expert sales team to their factory-trained service technicians, RIVA has built a reputation on doing things the right way—whether it’s dialing in a 400-horsepower turbo build or making sure your family’s ski is ready for the weekend.

The Yamaha EX Deluxe, part of the lineup included in this limited-time sale, hits the sweet spot between fun and function. With its TR-1 HO marine engine, RiDE dual-throttle braking and reverse system, and sleek, modern styling, it’s every bit a Yamaha—only lighter, simpler, and friendlier on the wallet. You’ll find plenty of storage, a comfortable seat for up to three riders, and the same bulletproof reliability Yamaha is famous for.

Whether you’re a new rider looking for your first ski or a longtime enthusiast looking to add a dependable runabout to your dock, there’s no better time to make your move. RIVA Motorsports’ Deerfield Beach location has a limited number of these units available, and with $2,000 off, they won’t last long.

Check out the full details and reserve yours today.

When you walk into RideNow Chandler, it doesn’t take long to figure out the crew really loves what they do. And now, Sea-Doo has made it official — naming the Arizona dealership Sea-Doo’s 2025 U.S. National Dealer of the Year for personal watercraft and pontoons.

The announcement came during BRP’s Club BRP dealer event in Boston, where top retailers from across the country gathered to celebrate a year of record-setting sales and service. For RideNow Chandler, though, this one meant a little more.

“This one really feels good because it shows the effort our whole crew puts in,” said General Manager Jon Lester. “We’ve got a team here that shows up every day ready to take care of people — whether that’s helping them pick out their first Sea-Doo or making sure their gear and service are spot-on.”

Over on Instagram, the Chandler team summed it up simply: “We are pleased to announce that we were named the BRP National Sea-Doo Dealer of the Year! We’re truly honored by this …” And for good reason — this isn’t just another plaque for the wall. It’s recognition of excellence across the board: sales performance, service training, aftermarket growth, and customer experience.

If you were roaming the pits or soaking up the vibes at last year’s IJSBA World Finals, there’s a good chance RideNow Chandler caught your eye — not just as a manufacturer dealer, but as a community hub. In December 2024, RideNow Chandler hosted the very first Personal Watercraft Owners Convention, organized by the IJSBA.

Originally, the Owners Convention had been slated to take place alongside the 2024 World Finals at Lake Havasu, but when the Arizona heat got the best of that plan, IJSBA moved it to RideNow’s indoor facility in Chandler — about 200 miles east of Havasu.

The event itself was a smaller, more intimate gathering of riders, racers, and industry pros. Held inside RideNow’s spacious showroom, it was designed explicitly as a planning session for the 2025 Owners Convention — a brainstorming space for the competitive and recreational sides of the sport to come together, trade ideas, and help shape what future PWC community events should look like.

IJSBA described the day as a “bridge” between racers and everyday riders, with local clubs, vendors, and brand reps joining in. RideNow kept things relaxed with refreshments and swag, while sponsors like Hot Products kicked in prizes. Attendance was modest, sure — but for a first-time event pulled together at the tail end of the season, it set the tone for something that’s now taking root at this year’s World Finals in Havasu.

Fast forward to today, and the 2025 IJSBA World Finals are officially underway. Many of the ideas first floated at that Chandler convention — like improved owner amenities, hospitality areas, and organized recreational activities — are showing up in this week’s programming. In that sense, RideNow Chandler didn’t just host a meeting; they helped chart the next chapter of how the PWC community connects.

And really, it’s that same spirit of involvement and community focus that likely helped earn RideNow Chandler its newest distinction as Sea-Doo’s 2025 U.S. National Dealer of the Year — proof that when a dealership invests in its people and its riders, the results ripple far beyond the showroom floor.

For dealerships, being crowned Sea-Doo’s “Dealer of the Year” isn’t just bragging rights — it’s a calling card. Customers see that logo on the door and know they’re walking into a shop that does things right. It builds trust, helps new buyers feel confident, and gives longtime owners another reason to keep coming back.

It also opens a few behind-the-scenes perks. Often, award-winning dealers can see increased manufacturer support, marketing collaboration, and access to promotional opportunities. Beyond that, the honor tends to provide a morale boost across the team.

RideNow Chandler now joins an elite lineup of previous Sea-Doo Dealer of the Year winners like HK Powersports in New Hampshire, who earned the title last year. HK made waves around the Lakes Region by building its reputation on customer relationships, reliability, and community involvement — proof that this award isn’t just about selling units, but about doing right by riders.

And that’s really the takeaway here: when Sea-Doo recognizes a dealership, it’s rewarding more than just numbers. It’s about consistency, attitude, and a culture that puts customers first.

For RideNow Chandler, this recognition is the latest milestone in a long run of success. As part of the larger RideNow network, they’ve already built a name for themselves in the Phoenix-area boating community. The award just puts a spotlight on what regulars already know — that this team is the real deal.

And while RideNow Chandler was honored as Sea-Doo’s U.S. National Dealer of the Year during the Club BRP dealer event in Boston, north of the border, Banner Recreation and Marine in Kelowna, British Columbia, received the same prestigious accolade for Canada. This recognition underscores Sea-Doo’s commitment to excellence across North America and celebrates dealerships that exemplify the brand’s values and dedication to the PWC community.

Banner Recreation and Marine’s achievement is particularly noteworthy given the challenges posed by the Canadian market’s seasonal nature. Operating in a region with a shorter riding season, Banner has excelled in providing exceptional service, fostering community engagement, and maintaining strong sales performance throughout the year. Their success story mirrors that of RideNow Chandler, demonstrating that regardless of geography, a focus on customer satisfaction and community involvement can lead to outstanding results.

Both dealerships’ recognitions highlight Sea-Doo’s overarching strategy to support and celebrate its dealer network, ensuring that top-performing dealerships are acknowledged and empowered to continue their excellence. These accolades not only honor the dealerships but also reinforce Sea-Doo’s commitment to fostering a vibrant and engaged PWC community across North America.

So if you’re in the area and thinking about a new ski or gearing up for next season, chances are the Sea-Doo National Dealer of the Year has exactly what you need.

If you’ve ever been to Kachemak Bay, you know it’s one of those places that feels almost too wild to touch — steep green cliffs, glassy water, otters bobbing in the kelp, and a whole lot of Alaskan quiet. For more than twenty years, though, there’s been one sound you wouldn’t hear echoing across the bay: the braaaap of a jet ski.

That changed in a big way this fall, when the Alaska Supreme Court struck down a lower court ruling that had kept personal watercraft (PWCs) out of the bay’s critical habitat areas. In plain English: the state’s highest court just said, “Yes, jet skis are allowed in Kachemak Bay.”

The backstory goes way back to 2001, when Alaska’s Department of Fish and Game (ADF&G) banned PWCs in Kachemak Bay and the nearby Fox River Flats, citing concerns for wildlife and sensitive habitat. Fast forward twenty years, and the machines themselves had changed dramatically — cleaner, quieter, less intrusive. Under Governor Mike Dunleavy’s administration, ADF&G revisited the ban in 2021 and decided it no longer made sense to keep it.

That’s when the legal tug-of-war began. Environmental groups sued, claiming the state didn’t have the authority to lift the ban and that doing so would violate the laws protecting those habitat areas. As covered by WCJ, a lower court agreed with them in 2023, putting the brakes on again. But in September 2025, the Alaska Supreme Court reversed that decision — and did it unanimously.

The justices said the department not only had the power to create the ban, but also to change or repeal it as conditions evolved. They even pointed out that technology and science had come a long way since the early 2000s, and it’s perfectly reasonable for an agency to adjust its rules to reflect that. In other words, state rules aren’t meant to be frozen in amber throughout the decades.

To riders across Alaska, this felt like a long-overdue win — not just for access, but for common sense. To conservationists, it was a worrying signal that long-standing protections could be undone too easily. And to everyone watching, it was a reminder that jet skis have always had a complicated relationship with environmental policy.

Not The First Battle Over PWCs — And Definitely Not The Last

This isn’t the first time PWC access has been fought out in courtrooms or council meetings. Similar debates have popped up all over the map. California’s Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary still keeps PWCs out, citing wildlife and noise concerns. Up in Washington State, San Juan County’s long-standing ban has held since the late ’90s. On the flip side, lakes and recreation areas elsewhere have eased restrictions as cleaner four-stroke engines replaced the smoky, noisy two-strokes that gave jet skis their bad reputation decades ago.

Some places, like Lake Mead or Lake Mohave, only ban older engines. Others, like Lake Austin in Texas, limit jet ski use on major holiday weekends when boat traffic is chaotic anyway. The pattern isn’t “ban or bust” anymore — it’s more nuanced.

That shift says a lot about where things are heading. Instead of blanket bans, we’re seeing rules that adjust to reality: engine type, waterway use, wildlife behavior, and public tolerance. And frankly, that’s not a bad thing.

Fewer Bans, More Balance

Five or ten years ago, it seemed like every conversation about PWCs and the environment started with restrictions. Today, the tone has mellowed. While there are still a handful of local or seasonal bans being discussed, there’s no major wave of new prohibitions sweeping the country. In fact, cases like Kachemak Bay suggest a slow but steady shift toward moderation.

There are a few reasons for that. For one, modern personal watercraft are simply better neighbors. They’re cleaner, quieter, and far more fuel-efficient than the rowdy two-strokes of old. That means the data that once justified outright bans doesn’t always hold up anymore.

Public attitudes have also evolved. Instead of a “keep out” mentality, many communities are trying to strike a balance between recreation and conservation. Parks departments and wildlife agencies are increasingly looking for ways to manage access responsibly — with distance buffers, speed limits, or no-wake zones — rather than forbidding PWCs altogether.

And even as interest shifts back toward stand-ups — with riders restoring classic two-stroke skis or falling in love again with that light, nimble style of riding — the burden’s on the community to make sure that passion doesn’t undo the progress that has been made. Jet skiers themselves can play a big role here: by self-regulating, being considerate on the water, and staying mindful of environmental impacts, the PWC community can show that responsible riding and habitat protection can coexist. Working with local authorities and environmental groups, rather than against them, helps keep the conversation open and the water accessible.

Finally, there’s a broader political movement pushing for less regulation in general, especially in outdoor recreation. The Alaska decision echoed that sentiment, emphasizing that agencies should have flexibility to update their rules as technology and society change.

Why This Ruling Matters Beyond Alaska

Even if you never plan to ride in Alaska, this decision could ripple far beyond the Last Frontier. The court’s reasoning — that agencies must have the authority to revisit old rules as conditions change — might influence how similar cases play out elsewhere.

For riders, that means bans set decades ago might not be permanent if modern evidence supports lifting them. For regulators, it’s a reminder that any rule change, whether tightening or loosening restrictions, needs a solid, science-backed record to stand up in court.

And for conservationists, it’s a wake-up call: environmental protection laws can’t just rely on inertia. They’ll need to evolve alongside technology and recreation trends if they’re going to hold up in the long term.

The Takeaway

It’s not a free-for-all, and it’s not the end of environmental oversight. But the trend is clear: we’re moving toward smarter, more flexible regulation — not blanket bans.

Expect to see more lakes and coastal regions adopt middle-ground policies: specific zones for PWCs, seasonal restrictions during nesting or migration, and continued phasing out of older, polluting engines. The goal now is to keep waterways open, clean, and safe for everyone — otters and riders alike.

And if the Kachemak Bay decision proves anything, it’s that the conversation around PWCs is still evolving. The machines have changed. The science has changed and the rules may be starting to catch up.

Reputation Rehab

This kind of ruling — restoring access, recognizing changing tech, respecting both nature and recreation — can help shift public perception of jet skis from being part of the problem to being part of the solution. But — and this is a big but — that shift only sticks if riders avoid the kinds of headlines that feed the worst stereotypes: reckless riding, ignoring safety zones, harassing other users (or wildlife), hit-and-runs, etc.

Recent news shows that it’s now always forward momentum on that front:

• In Mission Bay, San Diego, a 12-year-old girl, Savannah Peterson, was killed when she was struck by a jet ski going far above the speed limit in an area meant for slow or no-wake travel. Her family’s lawsuit highlights how signage, enforcement, and separation between swimmers/paddleboarders and faster watercraft might have prevented the tragedy. NBC 7 San Diego+1
• In Lake Grapevine, Texas, an 18-year-old kayaker, Ava Moore, was struck and killed by a PWC over Memorial Day weekend in what’s being investigated as a hit-and-run. The operator fled the scene with another person; there’s anger, grief, and outrage — and it’s exactly the sort of case that reinforces fears that jet ski operators can act irresponsibly. Midland Reporter-Telegram
• There have been numerous local complaints (for example in Lake Clarke Shores, Florida) of jet ski operators ignoring speed limits, making excessive noise, getting too close to swimmers or docks, and harassing other boaters. These kinds of reports may not always result in fatalities or legal cases, but they shape the narrative. Lake Clarke Shores, FL

If the PWC community can clean up the worst behaviors — stay out of swim zones, respect speeds, avoid harassment, don’t flee after collisions, watch for wildlife — then rulings like the one from Alaska might do more than just change laws: they might begin to change hearts and public trust.

Broward Motorsports, with multiple locations across the region and a reputation for excellence that stretches from Miami to Palm Beach, has built themselves into a true powerhouse in the personal watercraft world. Their Ft. Lauderdale store in particular has long been a hub for riders who want the best machines at the best prices, and right now, they’ve got something special lined up for the fishing crowd: a brand new 2025 Sea-Doo FishPro Trophy 170.

Sea-Doo’s FishPro line has carved out its own little subculture in the PWC world, and the Trophy 170 sits at the top of that pyramid. Powered by the proven 170-horse Rotax 1630 ACE, it’s got all the muscle you need to run offshore or cruise the inlets without breaking a sweat. But what makes it truly shine for jet ski anglers are the little details: a tricked-out fishing cooler that converts into a livewell, a modular swivel seat so you can get comfortable while you wait for that bite, and a factory-rigged Garmin 7-inch touchscreen with GPS and fish finder built right in. It’s the kind of setup that makes chasing snapper, grouper, or even mahi off the reefs less of a guessing game and more of a guaranteed adventure.

And here’s the kicker: Broward Motorsports of Ft. Lauderdale has this 2025 FishPro Trophy 170 priced at just $17,715—that’s a savings of nearly three grand off retail. For anyone who’s been eyeing the FishPro but waiting for the right deal to strike, this is it. While here at The Watercraft Journal we’re more often leaning into the smaller, sportier machines that bring back that old-school, responsive energy, we can’t deny the advantages of a ski like this for serious anglers. For the fishing faithful, it’s purpose-built perfection.

Beyond the sales floor, Broward backs up every ski they sell with strong after-sales support. From factory-certified service and repairs to parts, gear, and accessories, they make sure your investment stays on the water and out of the shop. Financing options and trade-in opportunities also make it easier than ever to get yourself into the right machine, whether you’re upgrading from your current ski or starting fresh.

Of course, the Trophy isn’t the only deal Broward has on deck. Their Ft. Lauderdale showroom is stocked with a wide spread of new and pre-owned skis, and their other locations—Hollywood, West Palm Beach, Miami, and Tequesta—each carry their own inventory and special offers. So whether you’re chasing fish offshore, craving high-speed thrills, or looking for a solid second-hand ski to get into the sport, Broward Motorsports has you covered.