How to Play Snake

The clean version

Snake Rules

1. 1

   Set the final Snake value before the round.

2. 2

   Count putts consistently from the first stroke made on the putting green.

3. 3

   The first 3-putter takes possession of the Snake.

4. 4

   Every later 3-putt transfers possession to that golfer.

5. 5

   The golfer holding the Snake after the final hole pays under the agreed settlement rule.

Before the first tee

Set Up the Game

• Set fixed or progressive value
• Define the putting-green boundary
• Decide whether 4-putts add a penalty
• Define team or individual payment

A dispute-resistant starting point

Green on 19 Default Contract

Set fixed or progressive value Define the putting-green boundary Decide whether 4-putts add a penalty Define team or individual payment

Exact scoring math

Snake Formula

Final holder pays stake × opponents. Each opponent receives one stake unless the contract charges every 3-putt.

Settle it before it starts

Disputes and Edge Cases

Lock ties, timing, multipliers, handicap use and maximum loss before tee-off. The written round contract controls any house-rule variation.

Mix it carefully

Can Snake Be Played With Other Games?

Snake is independent of the main scoring format and can sit beside nearly any game.

House-rule territory

Popular Variations

• Value grows after every 3-putt
• Separate front and back Snakes
• A 4-putt doubles the value
• Snake holder pays every other golfer

Play smarter

Strategy Without the Spreadsheet

• A safe lag matters more when you already hold the Snake.
• Count fringe putts under a pre-agreed rule.
• Track possession immediately; rebuilding the chain after the round causes arguments.