Gallery: 2015 Yamaha Australian Jetcross Tour Rounds 1 & 2

By

-

February 5, 2015

How dedicated are you to jet ski racing? How far would you travel to compete? These were the questions going through my head while watching all the riders in Perth this weekend. But the love of the sport was shining through at the first two rounds of the 2015 Yamaha Australian Jetcross Tour, especially on the faces of all the riders as they lined up for the first race of the year.

Perth is on the West Coast of Australia and the most isolated city in the world. Its a 50 hour drive from my home town of the Gold Coast, so lucky I got to fly! Some of the riders weren’t so lucky. Between shipping skis and equipment it’s a exceptionally expensive exercise but we all know that racing skis is not cheap, so to see the turnout of over 50 racers from teams and privateers from all over the country was an awesome effort!

Rounds One and Two of 2015 Yamaha Australian Jetcross Tour were held by AJSBA and Jetsport West at the local club on the Swan River, a fantastic spot for both races and spectators with a beautiful view of Perth City in the back drop.

This year, Yamaha Australia got on board and started a new class of racing, the Superjet Cup with a brand new 2015 SuperJet as first prize. It’s so good to see Yamaha supporting the sport in such a big way. The Cup is basically a version of the Circuit Lites Ski class (so only handling and a few other small modifications are allowed). At the end of the tour, one lucky rider will need extra room on their trailer to take home their hard earned ski home! If you are competing in the SuperJet Cup, you’re competing with racers like Joel Barry, Ryan O’Keefe and James Xuereb, so bring your “A” game to every event to have a chance of taking home this major prize.

Speaking of which, Ryan O’Keefe came back into racing after some time off with great success on his new Superjet taking first position on the in the points. It was good to see all that practice riding at Sea World on the Gold Coast has paid off.

O’Keefe was closely followed be last year’s number one Joey Barry, and World Veterans Champion James Xuereb. A lot of these guys are true athletes, racing two and sometimes three different classes. Guy “Gee” Greenland was one of those who raced the Pro Open Runabout on a borrowed ski and took on the standup racers in the SuperJet Cup.

Speaking of Pro Open Runabout, the Sea-Doo Team from JSW Powersports were let down by their transport company, leaving their skis stuck somewhere in the desert. Thankfully, after getting a hold on some dead stock RXP-X Sea-Doos from some very generous West Australians, the JSW boys were able to get some points on the board.

In Round One, Sea-Doo salesman Anthony Antees rode like a man possessed, taking home third place on one of those stock boats. Sydney Sea-Doo Performance’s James Masterton took first place with K-Speed’s Christian D’Agostin in second place. I bet they were hoping Anthony’s boat doesn’t turn up in time.

Sydney Sea-Doo Performance’s own James Masterton brought out his Pro Open runabout and grabbed solid podium finishes in each round.

Well, it did just before the first race of Sunday’s Round Two. (Sorry guys.) It was a very fast and reliable turbo boat and Anthony was keen to make up some points. James Masterton’s boat was no slouch either and was going like a rocket. But unfortunately for James, it just wasn’t quite fast enough to best Anthony.

Christian D’Agostin was Mr Consistency with him taking third place in Open, and then going and racing in Stock Runabout, also taking third. Matt Brunt and Greg Hack also looked like they had some good boat speed, until the gremlins turned up. See you next round boys. Hope it’s all sorted.

Lites Ski was lucky enough to have a young lady racing in it with the boys, and keeping them on there toes. The 16-year-old Jamie Lee Spence was unbelievable on her SX-R. She has a huge future in racing and was able to beat the boys on more than one occasion.

Another young gun was Tom Aiken. After not having much luck in Round One, a little bit of tweaking to his ski made all the difference for Round Two, with him winning with a nice lead in each race. His SX-R looks like it needs a bit of love on the outside, but it’s got the goods on the inside. Tom’s not just a racer either, he’s one heck of a freeriders to. Keep an eye on this one.

Grant Busby, another SX-R rider and President of Jetsport West, took out first in Round One and third in Round Two. He put in a great effort after giving the SuperJet Cup a go. (And special thanks to Buzz for the bed and the Cordials.)

The Kawasaki teams from the Gold Coast, and Brisbane showed how well their 310R Ultras go with a constant blur of green whizzing by. Handling the chop well and stealing out of the corners smoothly kept them up front with the other top riders. Ben Mounford took first in Stock Endurance and Christian D’Agostin won the Open enduro. Both the boys were on 310Rs. Well done, Kawasaki.

Yamaha was not to be outdone. Stock Runabout was dominated by Mitch Wayt on his SVHO-powered FZS put together by WaveRunner Performance on the Gold Coast. Wayt was joined by Brett Douglas and Christian D’Agostin who made it to the podium again.

Open Ski was a close race between a couple of Hydrospaces and Michael Stevens’ 1100cc SX-R. Jake Barkers boat had some speed to it and he threw it around the buoys with great finesse. That boy can ride. Joel Barry’s Hydro couldn’t quite catch him after Jake’s great starts. Mick gave it a good go and “rode his own race” with consistent and fast laps.

Rounds Three and Four will be held in Redcliffe, Queensland on the 21st & 22nd of February, so watch this space for more top level coverage!

All images courtesy of Photos by Skip and unaltered, full-resolution versions can be purchased HERE.

<

►

>

Vicious Rumors & Vile Gossip: What Happened to MV Agusta’s F4 Interceptor Concept PWC?

By

Kevin Shaw

-

February 5, 2015

4

There are many of you too young to remember the nuclear arms race between the United States of America and the USSR (or even too young to know what the USSR was). In hopes to deter nuclear annihilation, both superpowers sought to stockpile more tactical warheads and Intercontinental Ballistic Missiles (ICBMs) than the other. Makes sense, right? Replacing the world stage with the showroom floor, we too are living in a OEM arms race.

Kawasaki’s brutal 310-horsepower supercharged Ultra remains atop the heap, raking up piles of championship trophies both in the offshore and endurance fields. Close behind, Yamaha’s Super Vortex High Output-equipped FZ and FX runabouts have swept up overall class wins in Pro Open, Limited and Stock classes at last year’s Pro Watercross national tour (and is poised to repeat its success in 2015).

Sea-Doo, who is never one to swallow third place for very long, is rumored to debut an all-new 1,600cc-plus 3-cylinder Rotax based off of the successful dual-overhead cam ACE architecture found both in Can-Am snowmobiles and in far smaller form, the 900cc Spark. While tales of the new engine range from a 330-horsepower, 2-liter bruiser, to a more conservative 1.5L, 280HP powerhouse, it is likely to rival (if not surpass) the Yamaha’s dyno-true 260-plus horse output and make many reconsider that bright yellow paint job.

But can we do better? Italian motorcycle makers would emphatically cry “YES!” and prototypes and concepts have graced show floors for years. Late last year, we introduced you to Zolland Design AB’s Ducati-inspired personal watercraft touting twin Ducati 1098 engines. While merely a CAD (computer assisted drawing), the concept claimed 320-horsepower from a pair of 1098cc engines.

But another eclipsed that number over 7 years ago. Back in December 2007, MV Agusta unexpectedly unveiled the F4 Interceptor at the Milan Motorcycle Show in Italy. Opting for large-displacement, naturally-aspirated powerplant (rather than a supercharged engine like current OEs), the carbon fiber-hulled, 2.2-liter V8-powered PWC created a new engine by fusing two motorcycle engines together.

According to Gizmag, MV Agusta took “two of its high performance 1078cc four cylinder engines and created a Swiss-watch-like 2156cc V8 powerplant which will power a limited-edition 308 bhp, carbon-fiber–hulled, two-seater called the F4 Interceptor… The only information apart from the raw numbers available on the craft at this stage is that it has a CDI ignition, electronic fuel injection, a 3-blade stainless steel impeller, uses a 160mm high pressure axial flow pump and is claimed to weigh in at an astounding 238kg dry.”

With a scant weight of 524-pounds and a final output a staggering 400 horsepower, the combination would make the Agusta quite possibly the world’s fastest (and most expensive) PWC. Of course, the concept was also much smaller than any of the then-current models. At 2.946 metres long (115.9 inches), it is more than a foot shorter than Sea-Doo’s full-sized GTX/RXT hull. Add to it a healthy quotient of titanium and magnesium, and the Agusta nears the super exotic with each step.

“As with any other form of performance motorsport, fundamental physics still applies,” Gizmag continued, “modest dimensions means less mass to accelerate, stop and change direction. Compare the dimensions and power of the MV Agusta…to the recently announced offerings of the existing manufacturers and you’ll see a significant gap in the power-to-weight ratios…and why we think the European PWC will naturally fall into an elite class of PWC similar perhaps to the difference between luxury class cars such as BMW and Mercedes, and their exotic automotive counterparts such as Ferrari, Lamborghini et al.”

In its conclusion, Agusta announced a limited (although undisclosed) production number of the new F4 Interceptor and failed to release a price, yet it was expected to quite easily be “the most expensive production PWC yet sold.” Alas, the MV Agusta F4 Interceptor never came to fruition. Much like HSR-Benelli’s V6-powetred Series-R watercraft revealed near this same time, both Italian super-craft failed to see production, not to mention US shores. Surprisingly enough, price wasn’t the biggest detractor, but compliance with the U.S. Coast Guard.

Approval from the Coast Guard – which consists of a “gentleman’s agreement” for standard PWC not to exceed 65mph full loaded – has kept many a ski from American hands, most recently the RS-edition supercharged Sea-Doos. Unrestricted by its GPS-governor, RXT-X 260 RS units handily exceed 70-71 mph “out of the box.” Likewise, Kawasakis greedily surpass the 70mph mark with literally the addition of $.10 worth of washers to the paddle wheel speedometer.

Of course, the aftermarket accessory market for PWC is ripe with go-fast goodies that can launch a SVHO-powered Yamaha to 80mph with very little effort. Yes, 400HP is achievable from any of the current Big Three, and a naturally-aspirated V8 Italian PWC is a “tantalizing prospect” to be sure, but until the USCG restriction is lifted or heavily amended, it is very unlikely that we’ll see super exotics like MV Agusta’s dream ski F4 Interceptor.

<

►

>

Gallery: Kaotik/Jetski Junkies Open Track Day (With Video)

By

Kev Hemingway

-

February 4, 2015

0

This past February 1st was Superbowl Sunday in the States, which is nearly its own holiday in many households. While the rest of the nation is buried in snow, beneath Florida’s iconic Skyway Bridge this past Sunday was an accumulation of jet ski hotheads brought together for the single purpose of teaching and learning the ins and outs of PWC racing.

Thanks to the efforts of Brad Clark and Brent Venderley of Kaotik Products and IJSBA-sanctioned Region 7 Hydrocross Racing (together with the Jetski Junkies Jet Ski Club), a showcase showdown of pro and amateur racers, rec riders and youth gathered with the interest in learning what it takes to become a circuit PWC racer. Nobly dubbed the “Free Open Track Day,” the day’s event allowed PWC enthusiasts from all walks of life to come out in play.

The day did start off very windy, but soon settled down and sunny skies, 75-degree temperatures and a long high tide in Tampa Bay made for a perfect track day. The day kicked off with lunch, which was graciously supplied by the Watercraft Superstore (WCSS) and hand-delivered by WCSS’ own Carrie Sinwelski who spent the day hanging with all of us, discussing traction mats, custom seats and more.

After lunch, the buoys were dropped in and it was time to warm up! All the top 4-stroke runabouts from Kawasaki, Yamaha and Sea-Doo were there in addition to plenty of standups, ‘Blasters and more, a complete measure of jet skis graced the Skyway Beach. Two types of races were held, closed course and an island endurance race.

For those of you not familiar with closed course racing, a track of buoys was laid out for the racers to weave in and out of for stated amount of time or laps. On this day, it was 5 laps and the skis were categorized by either type or engine size so the standups and ‘Blasters ran together and then the runabouts together.

The island endurance race was a simple 2 lap, 20-mile, WOT run out under the Skyway Bridge around the fishing pier up the Intra Coastal Waterway cutting back into Tampa Bay finishing at the Skyway Beach. The closed course racing was awesome to watch, the location was prime for all the spectators who made their way off I-275 to watch all the awesome fun racing and stand up flipping taking place.

The day ended with a great raffle with products donated by Kaotik products, PWC Muscle, SeaDooForum, Watercraft Superstore, WCP, Fulmer Helmets and more. Well over thousand dollars in products were raffled off and everyone who bought a ticket won a prize! Everyone walked away from this experience with smiles on their faces and the anticipation of the next open track day.

All images courtesy of Kenny Gore and Carrie Sinwelski. Video by Brad Clark.

<

►

>

Jobe PWC Interviews Water Rescue Director Jens Kammann

By

Kevin Shaw

-

February 4, 2015

0

The last few days we at The Watercraft Journal have been paying close attention to the efforts being made around the globe to ensure and increase water safety, both for boaters and swimmers. Earlier this week, we shone some light on Sea-Doo’s on-going support of the Surf Life Saving Australia organization. Today, we want to introduce you to Water Rescue, a watercraft-borne rescue team specializing in water sports events.

Jobe PWC was kind enough to provide us a transcript of their interview with Water Rescue technical director and head instructor Jens Kammann. A talented and dedicated water enthusiast himself, Jens has shown exceptional professionalism in his field and provide some great insight to the world of water rescue:

For a couple of years now, Jobe is sponsoring Water Rescue: a rescue team specialized in water sports events. They are active at different PWC events worldwide. We spoke to the technical director and head instructor of Water Rescue Jens Kammann, about the cooperation between Jobe and Water rescue and his role in it. It’s time to kiss and tell.

Jobe: Hi Jens, nice to meet you! Can you tell us a little more about water rescue?
Jen Kammann: Of course! Water rescue is a special rescue team on the water. We are present at different events, like IJSBA World finals United States and the King’s Cup Thailand (PWC World Cup). Everywhere we are, we work as a team together for safety. That’s our most important task.

Jobe: Could you tell us why water rescue has chosen Jobe as a partner?
JK: Usually we are 10-12 hours a day on the water. We do this day by day, so it’s important to have high quality neoprene clothing on the water. A top quality is necessary, which Jobe offers. We recommend Jobe wetsuits as they withstand our requirements. Also the perfect fit and comfort is essential to us. The entire team is thrilled by the high quality and fair prices Jobe offers!

Jobe: Is being in a rescue team a tough job?
JK: PWC racing is an exciting sport – for athletes and the crowd. Nevertheless safety rules and service will help to get it done as best as possible. A couple of our rescue marshals are track marshals as well. Safety starts before the race and we care for this too. This can be a tough job, because we work in all weather conditions. By sun rising until sun doom we are constantly on the water.

Jobe: Who is your favorite Jobe athlete?
In the PWC sport this is Rainer Eidner. He’s a PWC legend in Germany and all around the world. Beside him, Silke Hummel is a fantastic racing driver. She’s also member of our rescue team and she has got so much experience!

Jobe: Do you have any last words for the Jobe fans?
JK: Our rescue team trust all of the Jobe clothes, from shoes, neoprene suits up to the gloves. Without good material we can’t exceed this hard job and look after the safety during so many water sports events. We thank Jobe for supporting all our rescue jobs. Ride safe!

Rock Solid: 2015 Yamaha FZS SVHO WaveRunner

By

Andrew Donovan

-

February 3, 2015

1

Admittedly, the differences between Yamaha’s 2015 SVHO-powered FZS and FZR are almost indistinguishable. The prices are identical, with a US MSRP of $14,699. Both come equipped with Yamaha’s most powerful high performance engine and pump package ever assembled – featuring the Super Vortex High Output 1,812cc supercharged dual overhead cam, four-cylinder 4-stroke. Both ride on Yamaha’s purebred closed course-handling, deep-V hull formed from an all-new NanoXcel 2 material. Both share identical cockpits, swim platforms and storage. So what’s there to differentiate the two?

Apart from color options (the 2015 FZR is available in only Torch Red Metallic, as the FZS is sold in either Pure White or Black Metallic and Azure Blue Metallic liveries), the FZS is offered with an extended rear saddle that offers seating (although incredibly snug seating) for three persons. The longer passenger seat also equips the FZS with a useful tow hook, as towing a tube or wakeboarder/skater legally requires a flag person to alert when the towed has fallen into the water, and seating for all three.

We got our hands on this Pure White FZS on a steely gray day and together with its owner, Danny Dugard, put it through the paces.

Normally, we like to get our hands on a new vehicle and personally beat on it until we can’t see straight. This time around, we wanted to get a second opinion, so we reached out to our friends at Queensland, Australia’s JetSkiShop who introduced us to Danny Dugard, the recent owner of a new 2015 FZS.

When asked we Danny opted for the Yamaha, he replied, “Reliability is everything to me. I’ve always been a stickler when it comes to Japanese quality built/engineered products. The peace of mind that I don’t need to ask a friend to come on a long trip with me just in case. The speed, stability, hole shot, maneuverability, hook up and all of it together works for me. It’s such a versatile ski, you can use it for pretty much anything. The best thing I like about it is it instils confidence in the rider and when a product delivers on its promises then I’m happy.”

Danny told us, “I’ve even taken out my 67-year-old mother-in-law and she had a blast. When it was time to get off, she was smiling from ear to ear. The wife and kids love it too. My 3-year-old daughter has made up her own jet ski dance move which we caught on our GoPro and that’s just priceless.”

This past year has shown the big Yamaha’s capabilities when equipped with aftermarket components. Incredible speeds and handling are within arm’s reach with just a few upgrades, which only testifies to the time and care given in developing the FZ series WaveRunners. Backing the stock FZ skis is a performance-bred 8-vein pump filled with a 160mm impeller, a and 3-degree nozzle featuring diffuser veins and a large 85mm exit diameter. So even in stock trim, the SVHO is a wild ride in and of itself.

“The big plus are the forged internals, which means if I want to do some upgrades down the track I know the SVHO engine is strong enough for a few if necessary,” Danny outlined. “It’s like riding an R1 but on water. The first time I went flat stick for a few seconds my heart was pounding out of my chest, the wrinkles on my face disappeared (for a few seconds) and my adrenaline spiked through the roof. To believe it you just have to get on one of these bad boys and test it for yourself, once you do you’ll be hooked!”

The FZ Series (FZR and FZS) feature the industry’s only telescopic steering system, allowing for multiple points of adjustment for sitting or standing. Missing from the FZ units is Yamaha’s RiDE brake and reverse system. Engineers decided against the added weight of the system as many performance enthusiasts were looking for the maximum in fun.

For 2015, Yamaha introduced NanoXcel 2. While the current NanoXcel material reduces the weight of conventional SMC fiberglass runabouts by upwards of 37-percent, Yamaha developed a major revision to their process to shave another 18-percent over the standard NanoXcel. By using a new resin made from “nano” clay and glass micro bubbles that uses less material, NanaXcel 2 permits for stronger, more rigid and lighter decks, liners and hulls. All of this adds up to a weight savings of an impressive 35-pounds off of the previous FZR and FZS.

As this reduction frees up performance, it also increases fuel mileage. Daniel reported, “A full tank will last the day with the family tubing, wake boarding, etc. In saying that if you’re out with a few friends and your making that HKS supercharger work overtime, well then that’s another story. I look at it this way, it’s not a car, you don’t use it every day, maybe once or twice a week (for me anyway) so if I have to fill the 70 litre (18.5 gallon) fuel tank up twice it’s a cheap weekend spent with friends and family.”

Although handsome in its own right, the Yamaha FZS SVHO appealed to Daniel in the brand’s reliable longevity and edge-of-your-seat performance.

Revised white-faced analog gauges make visibility easy. “I love them,” Daniel beamed. “The gauges are clear to read and easy to follow. The fuel gauge is easily visible and a quick glimpse will tell you all you need when doing just over 100kph (60mph).” The hood of both FZ units features a new water-dipped faux carbon fiber cowl that covers the Yamaha’s 21.3 gallons of storage. Likewise, beneath the rear seat is a screw-top, watertight storage bin.

And whether you find yourself only managing once or twice a month, or as often as Danny (“We try get out at least once every two weeks, I would love to go out once a week if I could but life is hectic sometimes so that’s not always possible. The ski does get a good workout during the summer but the winters here aren’t too bad, nothing a wetsuit can’t fix.”), the Yamaha FZS is possibly the most top-end, hard-turning performance available in a three-person runabout.

<

►

>

IPD Graphics Becomes Official Graphic Sponsor of Pro Watercraft Racing Team

By

Kevin Shaw

-

February 3, 2015

0

With the 2015 racing series beginning to gel, we’re starting to see racers and teams shore up sponsorships and announce their plans for the year’s events. Yesterday, we were alerted that industry graphics leader, IPD Graphics has recently joined in a partnership with Pro Watercraft Racing as the official graphics sponsor for Pro Watercraft’s race team.

IPD Graphics published the following press release on their Facebook page: “Proud to announce [that] IPD signed on to be the Official Graphic Sponsor of the Pro Watercraft Racing Team for 2015! Pro Watercraft Racing is lead by handling mastermind Chris Hagest, and is responsible for creating the best handling products in the industry and used by the top riders in the industry, riders such as Stian Schjetlein, Kevin Reiterer, Jimmy Wilson, etc.”

IPD Graphics’ own Casey Mauldin explained to The Watercraft Journal, “We’re excited to announce that IPD Graphics has just signed the deal with Pro Watercraft Racing to be the official graphic supplier for the Pro Watercraft Race Team for the 2015 race season.

“We’ve long been advocates of Pro Watercraft Racing’s brand of handling products, and have much appreciation for CEO Chris Hagest in bringing the JR Star program to light.

“Pro Watercraft Racing is bringing in some big guns this year in Stian Schjetlein from Norway to race the Pro Ski classes, along with Guy Vinatieri for the Amateur Ski classes. We are more than excited to be affiliated with this great company and great team, and look forward to what they can bring in 2015.”

Video: Spectrum Innovations’ 2015 Daytona Freeride Recap

By

Kevin Shaw

-

February 2, 2015

0

There’s seemingly no end to the photos, videos and coverage pouring out of last month’s Thrust Innovations Daytona Freeride. While none could compete with The Watercraft Journal’s stellar 48 hour post-event coverage and massive photo gallery thanks to our own Pavi Machotkova, we had to bow in respect to the absolutely unrivaled footage from Seth Zaluski’s Spectrum Innovations. The videography house has captured some of the best action and event action imaginable, and this year’s video recap from Daytona Beach, FL is no different.

Seth explained to Pro Rider Magazine, “From my eyes, the Daytona Freeride offers the best of both worlds – riding and filming. First, I already knew it would be a dope event where I not only get to ride, but also spend time with friends from around the country! Then there’s the knowing that three, 18 hour days of non-stop filming, in addition to riding, was approaching.

“Taking on the challenge of riding and filming the event can be stressful but rewarding, with last year’s video receiving over 10,000 views from over 45 countries. Well, here we are again, the event is over and the edit is done, but not before hitting record on my cameras over 1500 times, which leads to 1500 five to ten second clips that have to be viewed, cut down, selected and put into project form. Then, the edit itself takes me roughly 40 hours of post production upon returning to home.”

So far, Spectrum’s 2015 Daytona video has reaped in over 5,750 views in only a couple of weeks. We want to help Seth in his goal to exceed last year’s 10,000 views.

Surf Life Saving Australia Crew Trial Tests BRP Lineup

By

Kevin Shaw

-

February 2, 2015

1

Everything in Australia wants to kill you. At least, that’s what the Internet wants you to believe. But the heavy surf conditions and treacherous undercurrents of many of Australia’s beaches actually throw some credibility to the meme. That is why Surf Life Saving Australia (SLSA) exists, to help keep ocean-goers safe from harm. Recently, SLSA representatives from across the continent tested the latest in Sea-Doo Personal Watercraft, Evinrude E-TEC engines and Can-Am All Terrain Vehicles in their respective fields.

As reported by OZPWC, “the event started at BRP offices where the group were shared information about how BRP plans to continue to support the SLS movement to help save lives on Australian beaches. Product testing was then conducted at Wanda Beach and included testing on the new Sea-Doo Spark and Search and Rescue watercrafts.”

Coastal Risk and Safety Manager, Anthony Bradstreet from SLSA explained, “BRP product help Australia’s surf lifesavers patrol and perform rescues with greater efficiency and rapid response. BRP understands our core mission of saving lives, and this next generation of product they are bringing to the market, will further support this mission.”

BRP has remained a sponsor of SLSA for the past five years, having provided equipment for over 160 clubs around Australia. Through the BRP Equipment Grant, the company has proven its commitment to SLSA in assisting with the delivery of lifesaving equipment since its establishment in 2009.

“Surf Life Saving (SLSA) is an iconic community service across Australia. BRP’s products are well suited to the demanding surf conditions and provide the unparalleled maneuverability and high performance essential for effective beach patrols,” said Gregoire DuPont, Vice President and Regional General Manager BRP Asia-Pacific.

Book Your 2015 Jet Ski Fishing Adventure With Jet Ski Brian Today

By

Brian Lockwood

-

January 30, 2015

3

There’s only a couple more weeks and winter will finally be behind us. The only good thing about the winter is that it has allowed me some time to grab some good pictures of the bald eagles that have lived around my house for seven years now. I still have been making it out on the water to take in the sights but fishing has been slow.

Things will start to get better with every week that passes, so now is the time to book a Jet Ski Fishing and Adventures trip. Jet Ski Fishing and Adventures, Inc., takes individuals and small groups on fishing trips and personalized sightseeing tours. You can ride your very own rigged-up jet ski provided by us and guided by Jet Ski Brian himself.

Destinations include New Point Comfort Light, Chesapeake Light Tower offshore of Virginia Beach, and the wetlands and marshes of Poquoson. Each tour is personalized to the needs and desires of our customers. Whether you are looking for an exhilarating fishing adventure or in the mood for some sightseeing, Jet Ski Fishing and Adventures has something for everyone. Now is your chance to experience the thrill of PWC fishing with me, Jet Ski Brian.

Recently, Todd West wrote, “I have been from the Eastern Shore to the Outer Banks to the Bahamas with Bryan and you will appreciate his attention to detail and his desire to show you the best of this great sport that we have come to love.”

Likewise, Ted Sensenbrenner reviewed his adventure with Brian, “To many the thrill of PWC fishing is the self-reliance required and the puffery that comes with man versus nature. When it comes to fishing, a PWC is actually versatile. It’s easy to troll, jig, or simply drift fish. You can anchor easily and use it as a dive platform or stand to spear fish.”

Finally, “As we reached the Southern Tower and started to rig up, I watched Brian crank in his first amberjack. What a sight! You soon forget how tiring it is as the excitement of a big fish grabbing your lure takes over. I think all in all, we each landed a dozen, with one of mine being the largest at 45 inches.” Jerry Aycock wrote. “Brian started a new niche in our sport.”

You can also pay attention here, at The Watercraft Journal. I will be contributing jet ski fishing articles here all year. There’s lot of great PWC info there. So until then, here are some jet ski and recent pictures I have taken recently. Enjoy!

Comedy Central Launches Full Season of Kurt Braunohler’s Jet Ski Adventure

By

Kevin Shaw

-

January 29, 2015

0

Hey! Did you know that treasured comedian Dan Aykroyd played a pivotal character in 1984’s “Indiana Jones And The Temple of Doom?” Yeah, many don’t because the scene featuring the former Ghostbuster was all but completely scrapped, leaving the “Saturday Night Live” alum with a single line of dialogue and a few forgettable seconds of screen time. Alas, “that’s Hollywood as they say,” and we got a wee bit of a taste of that when we watched the long-awaited web series “Roustabout,” documenting comedian Kurt Braunohler’s jet ski adventure from Chicago to New Orleans.

The Watercraft Journal was invited to not only participate in the Comedy Central show, but reach out to its hundreds of thousands of readers throughout the United States and abroad and help support Braunohler’s quest to raise $50,000 for sustainable livestock in African villages. The premise seemed noble enough, but the method was somewhat flawed: the comedian would ride an ostentatiously-wrapped Yamaha FX HO from Chicago, Illinois to New Orleans, Louisiana, riding down the Mississippi. Of course, those familiar with these waters would highly recommend another route. But again, that’s Hollywood, folks.

Fatefully, the trip – dubbed “Roustabout” – would be a near unmitigated failure. Braunohler would circumvent much of Ol’ Miss for the Tennessee River or simply by land (that’s what they call “Hollywood magic,” folks) and would fail to raise little more than half of his funding goal. That’s not to say that the result of filming (back in June of 2014) wouldn’t result in some entertaining television (although the language is significantly not safe for work (NSFW)). And, unless you’re really glaring closely at your screen, you’ll likely miss the mere seconds of The Watercraft Journal’s Editor-in-Chief Kevin Shaw aboard a brand new black and blue 2014 Yamaha FX SVHO (see Episode 8).

Nevertheless, we’re happy to have played a (very) small part of this endeavor, and hope that you might see it a worthwhile cause to donate – even if in some small way – to this charitable effort.