Hole 13 at TPC at Deere Run
- Par
- 4
- Yardage
- 414 yds
- Stroke index
- 18
- Hazards
- 6 bunkers
Aerial source not provided
Green size: 38 yds deep × 19 yds wide
Scorecard yardage is for Championship tees. The aerial shows its labeled reference position; distance rings measure to the green.
Championship tees · Par 4 · 414 yards
The plan for No. 13
The signature hole at TPC at Deere Run, the par 4 13th presents one of golf's most intimidating challenges with its dramatic island green surrounded by water. At 414 yards, this Jack Nicklaus design demands both precision and nerve, as golfers must navigate their approach shot to a small target completely encircled by the lake. The tee shot plays to a generous fairway, but the real test comes with the approach, where club selection and wind reading become critical. Miss the green in any direction, and you're wet. This iconic hole, a centerpiece of the John Deere Classic, exemplifies risk-reward golf at its finest, where conservative play might leave a longer approach to the island, while aggressive positioning demands pinpoint accuracy on one of the PGA Tour's most visually stunning and mentally challenging holes.
Off the tee
The tee shot strategy revolves entirely around setting up the optimal approach angle and distance to the island green. Most players should favor accuracy over distance, using a fairway wood or long iron to ensure finding the fairway. The key is positioning yourself in the prime landing zone that gives you the best angle and most comfortable yardage for your approach shot. Avoid the temptation to grip it and rip it - the real challenge comes on the second shot, so prioritize a clean lie and good position.
Approach & recovery
This is where the hole's reputation is made or broken. The island green demands absolute precision, with water surrounding the entire putting surface. Club selection is critical - take enough club to clear any front hazards but don't overpower the shot and fly the green into the back water. Study the pin position carefully and aim for the center of the green rather than attacking tight pins. The small green size means even well-struck shots can find water if you're overly aggressive. Consider wind conditions heavily, as even a slight breeze can push your ball offline into the hazard.
On the green
Once safely on the island green, the putting becomes more manageable, though the psychological pressure of being surrounded by water can affect even simple putts. The green typically features subtle breaks, and with the small size, most putts will be relatively short. Focus on speed control and getting your first putt close rather than being aggressive with longer putts. The key is avoiding three-putts after successfully navigating the water hazard. ## RISK VS REWARD The risk-reward equation here is stark - execute the approach shot and you have an excellent birdie opportunity on this shorter par 4. Miss the green, and you're looking at penalty strokes and potential big numbers. The reward of attacking pins is rarely worth the risk; playing to the fat part of the green and accepting a two-putt par is often the smart play, especially in tournament situations. ## DIFFERENT SKILL LEVELS **High-handicap players** should focus entirely on course management. Consider laying up short of the water if your approach shot distance exceeds your comfort zone, then pitch onto the green for a potential bogey save. There's no shame in playing conservative on signature holes. **Low-handicap players** can be more aggressive with their tee shots to set up shorter approach shots, but should still prioritize the center of the green over pin-hunting. The scoring opportunity is real, but only with disciplined execution and smart target selection. This hole rewards patience, precision, and smart course management while punishing overly aggressive play - embodying everything that makes TPC courses such compelling tests of golf strategy.
Watch for
- Course conditioning and mapped hazards may affect line selection; confirm from the aerial.
Hole 13 Green Complex
Mapped green boundary
Green size: 4,536 sq ft
How did Hole 13 play?
How did this hole play today?
Frequently asked questions
Yardage reference: Championship tees · 414 yards.
What's the best strategy off the tee?
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For this 414-yard par 4, most players will hit driver to set up a comfortable approach.
How difficult is hole 13?
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This hole is a moderate challenge for most golfers. Key challenges include: heavily bunkered.
How big is the green on hole 13?
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The green is medium-sized with moderate targets. Pay attention to pin placement when selecting your approach club.