Fairway bunker shots may not be first shot you think of when it comes to specialty shots, but they present unique challenges that golfers often overlook. It’s not a shot you hit more than once or twice a round - sometimes not at all, if you're lucky, - which makes it easy not to practice or worry about.
Big mistake.
But with the proper technique and strategy, you can consistently execute fairway bunker shots without much stress. Here are some of the best tips from GolfPass instructors and tour pros specifically on this tricky but conquerable situation.
1. Nathalie’s guide to fairway bunker shots
In GolfPass’ most recent series, Golfer's Guide: Bunker Play, Nathalie Sheehan covers all things bunker play. In the final episode she provides insights into fairway bunker shots. Hear why ‘thin to win’ and taking more club are crucial to hitting the green on fairway bunker shots. She ends the episode with a drill that Bryson DeChambeau uses, and it can help you too.
2. Rory’s fairway bunker advice
In this tip from Ask Rory, the career Grand Slam winner explains the two key changes he makes to his swing on fairway bunker shots. Plus, he discusses strategy and how he judges what club he can hit based on how close he is to the lip.
3. Fairway bunker basics
Martin Hall explains his “3-L protocol” that you should use for every fairway bunker shot. He has a similar theory for club selection as Rory...maybe you should use it too!
4. ‘Fix’ your fairway bunker play
In this Open special episode of The Golf Fix, Devan Bonebrake details a handful of different fairway bunker scenarios with strategy and execution tips. He reiterates some of the advice above, but adds a great tip on grip pressure for fairway bunker shots.
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