Disc golf has exploded in popularity over the past decade, evolving from a niche hobby to a mainstream sport embraced by millions of enthusiasts worldwide. Like regular golf, the aim of disc golf is to complete each hole in the fewest number of throws, with the disc coming to rest in the basket or ‘pole hole’ that serves as the equivalent of the golf hole. While professional-level disc golf baskets can cost $300 or more, you don’t need to spend big bucks to start playing. A variety of everyday items can be repurposed to create DIY disc golf targets for your backyard or a park.
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Chain-link Fences
One of the easiest and most inexpensive solutions for a makeshift disc golf basket is a chain-link fence. Look for a used chain-link fence on Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace, or repurpose a section of the fence in your own backyard. The dangling links of the fence effectively simulate the chains on a regulation disc golf basket. Simply set up the chain-link fence section securely in the ground using the fence posts. Make sure the top of the fence is at least 3 feet above ground level. The wider the fence section, the better – aim for at least 4 feet wide. The chain-link material doesn’t need to be in pristine shape, since the point is just to stop the disc and not for aesthetics.
Pros:
- Extremely low cost
- Mimics the chain effect
- Easy to install
Cons:
- Can damage discs over time
- Not as sturdy or stationary as a permanent basket
- May not look very aesthetically pleasing
Laundry Baskets
The trusty laundry basket found in most homes can moonlight as an improvised disc golf basket. Look for a large, sturdy plastic laundry basket at least 24 inches wide and 12 inches deep. Make sure it has holes throughout so discs can easily pass through into the basket. Turn the basket upside down so the solid bottom part is facing up and acts as the disc catching surface. Weigh down the upside down basket with sandbags, bricks or other heavy objects so it doesn’t shift or tip over when hit by discs. The ideal height for the top of the laundry basket is around 3 feet off the ground.
Pros:
- Catches effectively
- Inexpensive and easy to find
- Portable – can be moved between holes
Cons:
- Lightweight – needs to be weighed down
- Not as durable long-term
- Smaller target area than a permanent basket
Traffic Cones
For a super simple backyard disc golf target, upright traffic cones are very effective. Look for sturdy rubber traffic cones at least 30 inches tall with a wide, weighted base. Arrange three or four traffic cones in a triangle or square shape with the cones spaced one to two feet apart. The cones will knock over when hit accurately but stand back up for the next throw. Use lengths of PVC pipe secured to the ground with stakes to outline where the cones sit if you want a permanent marking. To add more of a basket effect, cut wire mesh into circles and secure them around each cone using zip ties.
Pros:
- Inexpensive and easy to find
- Reset themselves for the next throw
- Easily portable and adjustable
Cons:
- Don’t catch the disc
- Could lead to damaged discs without mesh
- Less precise than a permanent target
Trash Can Lids
For a very basic at-home disc golf target, upturned trash can lids stacked on top of each other can work nicely. Use large, sturdy plastic trash cans that are at least 24 inches wide at the rim. They should be free of major dents and cracks. Place them upside down in a stack two or three high. Use bricks, sandbags or stakes to hold the bottom lid securely in place. The rim of the top lid should be about 2 to 3 feet off the ground. Make sure there is nothing around that could cause a ricochet if hit by an off-target throw. If desired, you can zip tie a wire or plastic mesh around the inside of each lid to create more of a basket effect.
Pros:
- Extremely inexpensive
- Easy DIY setup
- Stackable for varied heights
Cons:
- Lightweight – needs to be weighted down
- Not durable for the long term
- Could lead to bounced or ricocheted throws
Metal Poles
For a more permanent and sophisticated DIY disc golf basket, you can use metal poles and a chain assembly. Purchase galvanized steel pipes 3 to 5 feet long with diameters around 1 inch. You will need 3 for the main uprights and 3 smaller diameter pipes for the top rails. Weld, clamp or bolt the pipes together into a triangular shape base. Affix the top rails halfway up the upper ends of the vertical pipes to form the frame.
For the chains, purchase bulk lengths of round metal chain at a hardware store. You will need around 30 feet of chain suspended in ribbons around the frame. Secure one end near the top using screw eyes screwed into the poles. Connect S-hooks to the bottom of the chains to allow them to swing freely. Add a metal bucket or net on the ground centered under the frame to catch discs.
Pros:
- Highly durable permanent setup
- Mimics regulation basket design
- Customizable dimensions
Cons:
- Requires some metalwork skills
- Most expensive DIY option
- Stationary – can’t adjust locations
Conclusion
You don’t need fancy equipment to start enjoying disc golf in your own yard. With minimal investment and some DIY spirit, it’s easy to set up targets using materials you probably already have around the house. Just make sure your creations are sturdy and secure enough to withstand the impact of discs without toppling over or causing errant ricochets. While home remedies like laundry baskets and trash cans won’t perform as smoothly as professional targets, they’re a great way to try out disc golf and work on your throwing skills with family and friends.