Bad Caddies: Spotting and Handling Unhelpful Golf Caddies

If you’ve ever had a caddie who seems more trouble than help, you know how it can ruin a round. A bad caddie might misread a lie, give wrong club advice, or just be rude. The good news is you can spot the signs early and fix the situation before it hurts your game.

Common Signs of a Bad Caddie

First, pay attention to how they handle your clubs. If they drop them, fumble the bag, or keep the wrong clubs in the front, that’s a red flag. Second, listen to their advice. A caddie who always tells you to swing harder without checking the wind or the lie is likely guessing. Third, watch their attitude. If they are impatient, make jokes about your shots, or ignore your questions, the vibe is off.

These behaviors aren’t just annoying – they can actually add strokes to your score. A bad caddie can misread a pitch, suggest a driver on a tight dogleg, or even forget to water the greens. Spotting these problems early saves you from frustration later.

How to Deal with a Bad Caddie on the Course

When you notice a problem, speak up politely. Try a simple line like, “Can we double‑check the lie before you select the club?” Most caddies will adjust when you’re clear and respectful. If the issue persists, you can ask for a different caddie at the clubhouse. Most courses understand that a good fit matters and will accommodate you.

Another trick is to take back some control. You don’t have to rely on the caddie for every decision. Use your own knowledge for club selection and let the caddie focus on bag work. This reduces the chance of bad advice and keeps the pace of play steady.

Finally, give feedback after the round. A short note to the pro shop about what worked and what didn’t helps them improve their staff. Positive feedback for a good caddie is just as valuable as pointing out the bad ones.

Remember, a caddie’s job is to make your round easier, not harder. By recognizing the signs of a bad caddie and handling the situation calmly, you protect your score and enjoy the game more.

At Woodbridge Golf Academy we teach you how to read the course, choose clubs, and work well with caddies. If you want more tips on handling caddies, improving your swing, or mastering course management, swing by our academy or drop us a message. Let’s keep your rounds smooth and your scores low.