Most golfers view water hazards as a nuisance to be avoided at all costs. But no angler passes these ponds without daydreaming about casting a line. These hazards provide a heaven for bass, often untouched by humans, making them coveted honey holes.
But what if golfers and anglers both took on the water hazards in their own way? That’s exactly what happened during a recent tournament that paired up pro golfers with pro anglers at a Florida golf course.
The YETI Fishin’ Holes challenge pitted a pair of two-man teams – comprised of one Korn Ferry Tour pro golfer and one pro angler – in a unique format that placed equal importance on sinking birdies and hooking bass. The first-of-its-kind event got us thinking: What are the best golf courses that double as topnotch fishing spots?
TPC Sawgrass, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL – When the PGA TOUR’s annual PLAYERS Championship visits the Pete Dye layout, the course’s famous island 17th island green strikes fear into golfers. On the other hand, anglers drool at the opportunity to cast a line into the water surrounding the green. The course has long been a secret late-afternoon spot for many of the TOUR’s biggest fishing enthusiasts.
Kiawah Island Golf Resort, Kiawah Island, SC – The resort, known for hosting several marquee golf events, including the Ryder Cup and PGA Championship, is equally appealing to the fishing crowd. In addition to five world-class courses the resort offers numerous opportunities to fish the area’s surrounding rivers. Under the right tides, you’ll often see boats along holes 3, 4, and 5 of The Ocean Course on the hunt for redfish. More adventurous anglers can sign up for shark and reef fishing excursions.
Streamsong Golf Resort, Bowling Green, FL – When Streamsong first burst onto the scene, it became a must-visit for the golf crowd. The fishing crowd wasn’t far behind. In addition to three award-winning courses, Streamsong offers guided bass fi shing experiences, complete with all the gear you’ll need. A spot in Streamsong’s Bass Fishing Hall of Fame awaits anyone who hooks a bass of eight pounds or larger.
Sage Valley Golf Club, Graniteville, SC – Located about 15 miles from Augusta National, the club is widely regarded as one of the best in the southeast. Anglers also delight in its willingness to allow members and guests to cast a line. Healthy-sized bass are often spotted near the foot bridges along the 2nd, 3rd and 17th holes of the Tom Fazio course. The club even has a fully-stocked fi shing cart that can be checked out upon request. “We feel that the fi shing component enhances the Sage Valley experience,” said Patrick Rada, the club’s Director of Golf. “It’s a win-win.”
While some courses are welcoming to anglers, it’s a good idea to first check with the local pro before trading in your clubs for a rod and reel. Early morning or late afternoon, when golf traffic is light, are typically the best times for golf course fishing
This article was originally published on golfdigest.com
