The Straits course is an outstanding layout and probably my favorite Pete Dye course I've every played. The course is laid out in an interesting figure of 8 loop that brings the wind into play in a slightly different direction on every hole. In this feature the course is similar to Muirfield. The course starts on an inland hole then turns out to Lake Michigan. All told 7 holes run along the lake with the water most dangerously in play on 3 of the 4 par 3 holes. The course is full of undulation and elevation changes. Every hole presents a different and unique challenge. Dye has provided a number of spectacular shots but almost every hole has a safe route or bail out area that makes the course quite a bit of fun to play. Caddies are required but the course is very easy and enjoyable to walk.

Although the layout and design have features in common with a links course, the ground is not true links land and the course does not play hard and fast like a true links. However this is a fantastic layout easily on par with Pebble Beach and other spectacular waterside courses. The Kohler resort is a first class destination and I would encourage every golfer to play here. Read my full story here: The Wisconsin "Pearl" Golf Trip

Richard Smith

Knoxville, Tennessee