Fairway bunkers can seem intimidating, but escaping them doesn’t have to be hard. Follow these easy tips to handle fairway bunkers like a pro and keep your round on track.

Check Your Lie First

Before you swing, take a close look at how the ball is sitting in the sand. If it’s clean and sitting up, you’ve got a good chance of making a strong shot. If it’s buried or in a tricky spot, focus on just getting it back into play.

Pick the Right Club

Always choose a club with enough loft to clear the lip of the bunker. If the lip is high, stick to a mid or short iron. For lower lips, you can try a hybrid or fairway wood to gain more distance.

Adjust Your Setup

Dig your feet into the sand for stability, and grip down on the club slightly for better control. Position the ball a little forward in your stance and make sure you stay balanced throughout your swing.

Make Clean Contact

Unlike greenside bunker shots, you’ll need to hit the ball first, not the sand. Keep your swing smooth and avoid trying to "scoop" the ball. Focus on striking the ball cleanly for a solid shot.

Play It Smart

Don’t try to be a hero. If the shot to the green seems too risky, aim for a safe spot on the fairway instead. A smart recovery sets you up for a better next shot.

Fairway bunkers don’t have to ruin your round. With these tips, you’ll approach them with confidence and get back on track quickly.