Outdoor Activities
Why Golfers Should Care About Lone Star Ticks
Roughs and tree lines on golf courses are prime tick habitat. Here's a simple round-of-golf prevention routine that takes 60 seconds.
Updated · 4 min read
Most golfers never think about ticks. But every time you search a rough or tree line, you're walking through prime habitat. A quick routine before and after a round prevents most exposures.
Before your round
- EPA-registered repellent on exposed skin (ankles, neck, arms).
- Consider permethrin-treated golf pants or socks during peak season.
- Keep a small tick removal kit in your bag.
Are they where you live?
Enter a ZIP code, city or state to see what’s known about Lone Star ticks there.
On the course
- Don't dig deep in heavy brush for a $2 ball.
- If you walk into rough or trees, do a quick leg check before the next tee.
After the round
- Full-body tick check in the locker room or at home.
- Hot dryer for golf clothes if you played in heavy brush.
Key takeaways
- Tree lines and roughs are tick habitat, even on well-maintained courses.
- 60 seconds of prevention beats a month of post-bite worry.
- Repellent + quick leg checks cover most exposures.
This article is here to help you learn. It is not medical advice. If you have symptoms or questions, see your doctor or an allergist. If you’re having a severe reaction, call 911. Read our sources and disclaimer.