New to Disc Golf? Here's Where to Actually Start

Most people pick up disc golf the same way I did — someone hands you a disc, you throw it sideways into the trees, and somehow you're hooked anyway. The sport has a way of doing that.

If you're just getting started, the biggest mistake I see is people grabbing the wrong discs. They walk into a store or order online and buy whatever looks cool or whatever has the highest speed rating on the shelf. Those discs go sideways, you get frustrated, and it stops being fun. Don't do that.

Start With Three Discs

You don't need a full bag. You need three discs — a putter, a midrange, and a fairway driver. That covers every situation you'll face on a course.

A putter is your most important disc. It goes straight, it's forgiving, and you'll use it more than anything else in your bag. The Dynamic Discs Judge and the Latitude 64 Hope are the two I'd hand to any new player. Both are comfortable, both go straight, and both will hold up through hundreds of rounds.

A midrange is your workhorse disc — the one you reach for when you need something to go a certain direction and actually do it. The Discraft Buzzz has been the most popular midrange in disc golf for years for a reason. The Innova Roc is another classic that never goes out of style.

A fairway driver is not a distance driver. That's an important distinction. Fairway drivers are lower speed, more controllable, and perfect for players still building arm speed. The Discmania FD and the Latitude 64 River are two of the best beginner fairway drivers made. Both have tons of glide and both go straight without requiring a big arm.

Where to Play in Laredo

Laredo has one course right now — and a second one in the works. The existing course is a good starting point. Get out there, walk it, and don't worry about your score. The first few rounds are about figuring out how you throw and what discs work for you.

If you want to connect with other players locally, follow Laredo Disc Golf Store on Instagram. El Chainazo is a putting event we run here in Laredo — it's a great way to meet people and get reps in a low-pressure setting.

One More Thing

Don't buy a distance driver for your first bag. I know they look cool. I know the numbers sound impressive. But a speed 13 driver in the hands of a new player goes straight into the ground or hard to the right. Start slow, learn your throw, and the distance will come. Every good player you see throwing far started exactly where you are.

If you have questions about what to get, reach out. That's what we're here for.