Stuck in the trees? Here’s how to hit a punch out like Rory McIlroy

A shot that we saw over and over again at the 2026 Masters is one that every average golfer needs to know: the punch out. Rory McIlroy won but even he was in the trees multiple times at Augusta National. Everyone wants to hit all of their fairways and greens, but the reality is, even the best players in the world end up in trouble.

Putting a good score on the card isn’t about making zero mistakes; it’s about minimizing mistakes. And the best way to do that is by having the right shots in your toolbox to get you out of trouble. To hit a good punch out, Golf Digest Top 50 Teacher Erika Larkin says to first choose the correct club.

“Decide on a club that will help you flight the ball down but also give you the best combination of carry and roll that you need to get out of trouble, and not into more trouble,” Larkin says. “The lower you need to hit it, the less loft you should choose. ” Adjusting your ball position will also help you hit the ball low.

Larkin says to shift the ball back towards your trail leg, to the right of the middle of your stance for right-handed golfers. The farther back you play it in your stance, the lower you’ll flight it. “Because of the back ball position, you may need to aim a little open with your foot line,” Larkin says.