Clear the Lip of Fairway Bunkers with this Club Selection Trick

The Golden Rule: Treat a fairway bunker shot like you are on the grass; your goal is to hit the ball first and take a “divot” afterward.

The Clearance Trick: To see if a club will clear the bunker lip, lay the clubhead on the sand and step flat on the face—the angle of the shaft shows you the ball’s starting flight path.

Avoid “Helping” the Ball: Don’t try to pick the ball clean or scoop it up; this usually leads to hitting behind the ball or blading it into the lip.

Stability is Key: Dig your feet in slightly to feel stable and focus on keeping a steady lower body throughout the swing.

Weight & Ball Position: Finish solid on your front side; if you struggle with weight shifting, move the ball slightly back in your stance—but remember, this lowers the loft, so you may need a more lofted club.

Course Management: Don’t get too greedy; it is better to clear the lip comfortably than to “flirt with danger” and leave the ball in the hazard.

Questions and Answers

Q: What should I do after hitting the shot? A: Be a good playing partner—don’t do the “shuffle” and leave deep footprints; rake the bunker and leave it in good shape for the next person.

Q: Can I use a hybrid or fairway wood from a bunker? A: Yes, as long as you have enough “room to breathe” between your ball and the lip to allow for the lower launch of those clubs.

Q: Why shouldn’t I try to “pick” the ball clean? A: Trying to pick it clean often results in thin shots or hitting the sand first; hitting “down” on the ball ensures the cleanest contact.