Playing golf on wet ground can be challenging, but with the right preparation and strategies, you can still enjoy your day out on the course. Here are the top ten tips for playing golf in wet conditions:
- Plan and Observe: To play golf on damp ground, you need to plan, make observations of the course, and adapt your playing style and attitude.
- Scout the Weather and Dress Appropriately: Always check the weather forecast before you head out to the course. This will help you bring what you need for a good day.
- Swing Within Yourself: Don’t try to overcompensate for the wet conditions by swinging harder. Swing within yourself means to play to your strengths and avoid your weaknesses. It means not trying to hit shots that are beyond your current skill level, but rather choosing targets and strategies that give you the best chance of success. Some golfers may think that playing within yourself is the same as playing safe or underachieving, but that is not the case. Playing within yourself is actually a smart and effective way to improve your consistency and lower your scores.
- Use More Club on Approach: The ball doesn’t roll as much after it lands on wet ground, so factor that into your club selection and targets.
- Check the Greenside Conditions: When you are playing in wet conditions, the ground of the green will be much more receptive and sticky. Use more club on your approach shots, as the ball will not roll as much on wet greens. Check the greenside conditions before chipping or pitching, and choose the appropriate loft and bounce for your wedge. Aim for the high side of the hole when putting, as the ball will break less on wet greens.
- Keep a Positive Attitude: Wet conditions can be challenging, but maintaining a positive attitude can help you navigate the course effectively.
- Prepare for Plugged Balls: Wet conditions can cause your ball to become “plugged” or covered with moisture and grass particles. A plugged ball in golf is a ball that is embedded in wet or soft ground, such as a bunker. This can make it difficult to play your next shot, so you might want to know your options for relief under the rules of golf.
- Adjust Your Shots: You may need to hit “thin” shots instead of “fat” ones when playing on wet ground. A thin golf shot is when the clubhead strikes the golf ball higher, resulting in a lower shot. A fat golf shot is when the clubhead hits the ground before the ball.
- Factor in Less Roll on the Fairway: The ball doesn’t roll as much after it lands, so factor that into your club selection and targets.
- Be Prepared for a Wet Golf Course: Always have an extra golf towel (or two) in your golf bag. The Callaway Trifold is a good option and currently on sale: https://amzn.to/3H56hFq
Remember, the key to playing golf in wet conditions is to adapt your playing style and attitude. With these tips, you’ll be well-prepared to handle any wet course.