Test Run | 2025 FX JetFish

Yamaha Innovation Meets Anglers' Wish List

Story: Gareth Jones

As a Yamaha Marine Ambassador and lifelong angler, I've had the privilege of testing some of the most innovative watercraft on the market. But the 2025 Yamaha FX JetFish stands out as a game-changer for personal watercraft fishing. It's not just a WaveRunner with added accessories; it's a purpose-built fishing machine designed from the ground up to meet the needs of serious anglers.

To put the new machine through its paces, we handed the keys to David Nhan Cao, a rising club racer with the St George Motorcycle Club. Although a seasoned competitor, the day marked David’s first-ever media launch. The setting? The tight and technical South Circuit at Sydney Motorsport Park – a true test for any supersport machine.

 

The FX JetFish is the first dedicated model in Yamaha's lineup to feature a fully integrated fishing platform straight from the showroom floor. The inclusion of Yamaha's exclusive RecDeck—a rear platform with a built-in reboarding ladder—provides a stable and spacious area for fishing activities.

One of the standout features is the Premium Fishing Kit, which includes a sturdy multi-use rack, a 45-liter Engel esky, and four rod holders. These components are not only practical but also easily removable, allowing for versatility when transitioning from fishing to recreational use.

Navigation and fish tracking are made effortless with the factory-fitted Garmin 65SV unit. Equipped with SideVu, ClearVu, traditional sonar, and pre-loaded maps, this system, paired with a GT54 UHD transducer, ensures you know exactly where the fish are and how deep they're sitting.

Under the hood, the FX JetFish is powered by Yamaha's new 1.9-liter High Output engine. This naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine delivers smoother acceleration and a higher top-end speed, whether you're cruising or closing in on a hot bite. The redesigned top-loader intake grate enhances pump efficiency and reduces cavitation in choppy water, providing more speed and control in real-world conditions. 

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The 7-inch glass touchscreen display is both crisp and intuitive, giving you full control over riding modes, Auto Trim settings, speed, and acceleration. The built-in GPS system allows you to set waypoints, track your route, and even geofence the craft—a great feature for new riders to build confidence.

Comfort and ergonomics haven't been overlooked. The new steering setup is more adjustable, and Yamaha has added tie hooks on either side, which are handy when docking or rafting up with mates. The electronic trim system allows for on-the-fly adjustments to the bow position, optimizing performance under various conditions.

Storage is ample, with 168 litres spread across the glove box, seat bucket, rear stern, and front hood. The glove box itself is a gem—16.5 litres with a waterproof phone holder, USB, and 12V power ports, ensuring your electronics stay secure and charged.

The 2025 Yamaha FX JetFish is a comprehensive package that caters to both seasoned anglers and newcomers to the sport. It's a versatile, high-performance watercraft that doesn't compromise on fishing capabilities or recreational fun. Whether you're chasing snapper at sunrise or enjoying a day out with the family, the JetFish is ready to elevate your on-water adventures.

For a closer look at the FX JetFish in action, check out the videos.