Wolf
Rotating leader picks a partner — or goes solo
The 'wolf' rotates each hole. After watching the others tee off, the wolf picks a partner — or declares 'lone wolf' for double or triple stakes against the field.
The rules
The wolf
Tee order is fixed at the start. The first player off each hole is the wolf, rotating through.
Pick a partner
After each opponent's tee shot, the wolf can immediately pick that player as partner. If wolf passes on all, they go solo.
Lone wolf
Wolf can declare lone wolf before the others tee off (or after) for higher stakes — typically 2x or 3x the unit.
Hole payout
Best-ball low score per side. Wolf side wins/loses the unit times the multiplier.
When to play
Threes or fours. Strategic — picking the right partner matters.
Frequently asked questions
How do you play Wolf in golf?
Players tee off in a set order that rotates each hole. The first player to tee off is the 'wolf.' After watching each opponent's tee shot, the wolf can claim that player as a partner for the hole — or pass on everyone and play alone. Each hole is a best-ball match between the wolf's side and the rest, played for an agreed unit.
How many players do you need for Wolf?
Wolf is best with four players, but it works with three. With four, the order rotates over every four holes so each player is the wolf an equal number of times across 16 holes (groups handle the last two holes with a house rule, often making the overall points leader the wolf).
What is a 'lone wolf'?
When the wolf declines a partner and takes on the whole field alone. It pays more — typically double or triple the unit. Declaring 'blind' or 'lone wolf' before anyone tees off usually pays the most of all.
When does the wolf have to choose a partner?
Immediately after each opponent tees off — before the next player hits. If the wolf passes on a player, they can't go back and pick them later. Pass on all of them and the wolf is solo for the hole.
How is scoring kept in Wolf?
Each hole compares the best ball of the wolf's side against the best ball of the other side; the winning side collects the unit times any lone-wolf multiplier. mashie tracks the rotation, partner picks, and running totals automatically so nobody has to do the math at the turn.
mashie scores Wolf automatically and settles up at the end. See how it works