A Review of this Southern Gem: Caledonia Golf and Fish Club

The experience at Caledonia Golf and Fish Club starts on the drive in. It’s South Carolina’s version of “Magnolia Lane,” a road lined with 150-year old live oaks laden with Spanish moss. Get used to these behemoth’s as you’ll see many more of them throughout your round.

A quick glance at the scorecard suggests that this course may be a pushover; after all, it’s a mere 6,526 yards from the back tees. But remember, par is 70. Plus, the slope of 140 and a little bit of experience tells otherwise. At 6121 yards, the Mallard tees will give the majority of players all they can handle. The choice is yours, beat yourself up or have a good time and enjoy the scenery.

Speaking of scenery, you won’t find any homes lining the fairways at Caledonia; it’s just you, nature and that little white ball. Remember those Spanish Moss-covered oak tree I mentioned earlier, the ones you saw on your way in? Well, they come into play on about half of the holes, sometimes impeding your approach to the green.

Caledonia requires not only thought in where to place your tee shot in order to best approach the green, but also accuracy to do so.

Most Memorable Hole: Number 18, Par 4, 377 yards (Mallard Tees). Handicap: 11

This hole defines the thinking man’s game. You need to plan your approach shot before you tee off. Pick a club off the tee that will leave your best yardage to a green that requires significant carry over water. Depending on pin placement, the water will either be short or right. The green comes right up to the clubhouse, so don’t be surprised if you have a gallery watching your approach shot. It may be the closest you get to feeling like a PGA Tour player.

Have you played Caledonia?

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Story by David Therot – The Golfin’ Guy – www.thegolfinguy.com