14 Best Rated Golf Ball Retrievers – In-Depth Reviews

G olf ball retrievers have an obvious utility – they help you more easily get back balls you lose in hazardous areas of the field and allow you to pick up the balls you shot off the tee without having to hunch your back. Useful in a golfer’s bag as they add convenience to the game and shorten the time spent collecting the balls you hit, while obviously helping you save money on equipment as you can finally recover balls that end up in inaccessible areas, retrievers are a must-have for any serious golfer.

Most products available in stores are similar in design and intended for the same purpose, which is grabbing and restoring missed balls, but they are not equally comprehensive or effective. They mostly differ in the grabbing type and size, meaning you need to pay close attention to these aspects when chasing the suitable one for your bag. Without a doubt, one of the following models will find its place in your arsenal, so be sure to analyze all of them.

Top 14 Golf Ball Retrievers Compared

Photo	Product Name	Retracted Length	Extended Length	Material	Grab Type	Handle	Price
Best Overall	1. Callaway	45”	15’	Stainless steel cup/ Aluminum shaft	Ring cup and lock bar	Rubber	Check Price
Our Choice	2. I Gotcha Ultimate	45”	15’	Stainless steel cup/ Aluminum shaft	Ring cup and lock bar	Rubber	Check Price
	3. Search and Rescue BR-R-66	45”	15’	Stainless steel cup/ Aluminum shaft	Ring cup and lock bar	Rubber	Check Price
Best for Water	4. Orlimar 15-feet Retriever	48”	15’	Plastic cup/ Aluminum shaft	Ring cup	Rubber	Check Price
Best for Putter	5. Search N Rescue Two-Ball	42”	18’	Stainless steel	Rectangular cup	Rubber	Check Price
Best for the Money	6. I Gotcha Jawz	15.5”	10’	Plastic cup/ Stainless steel shaft	Ring cup	Rubber	Check Price
	7. Pelican Ball Retriever	43”	12’	Plastic cup/ Aluminum shaft	Ring cup	Rubber	Check Price
Best for Mud	8. ProActive Hinged Cup	45.4”	12’	Stainless steel cup/ Aluminum shaft	Hinged cup	Rubber	Check Price
	9. ProActive Sports 9-foot Retriever	41.5”	9’	Plastic cup/ Aluminum shaft	Ring cup	Rubber	Check Price
	10. JP Lann	42”	9’	Stainless steel cup/ Aluminum shaft	Hinged cup	Rubber	Check Price
	11. Search N Rescue Hinge Cup	44”	12’	Aluminum cup/ Aluminum shaft	Hinged cup	Rubber	Check Price
	12. JBM Pick Up Ball Retriever	26”	6’	Stainless steel cup/ Aluminum shaft	Ring cup and lock bar	Rubber	Check Price
	13. Mile High Life Suction Cup Ball Grabber	16.5”	80”	Plastic cup/ Stainless steel shaft	Claw/Suction cup	Rubber	Check Price
	14. Madewell The Original Bag Shag	31”		Stainless steel cup	Claw	Steel	Check Price

1. Callaway

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The Callaway features a stainless steel grabbing mechanism that can pick up balls in a snap and an ergonomic handle that makes maneuvering it a breeze. It measures 45 inches in length when retracted, and it stretches to a maximum length of 15 feet, so no ball can escape its long shaft.

When you spread it to the fullest, its body will not bend thanks to the steady aluminum alloy construction. This way, it will remain precise in locating and scooping the ball from any area, whether it’s sand or water. To protect the head from any incidents while transporting it on the course, the manufacturer added a protective cover that can be easily put on and taken off.

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2. I Gotcha Ultimate

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The newest addition is the “Ultimate” which is only 3.5-inch longer than the “Executive”, and it can be stretched to a whopping 18 feet. Therefore, it’s a model that you can cover a lot of ground with, allowing you to reach into the furthest and most confined places.

The I Gotcha features a telescoping shaft that allows convenient portability, measuring only 21” when collapsed, so you can effortlessly hide it in your club bag. It boasts a durable construction involving a steel grabbing head and an aluminum shaft that make it both lightweight and resilient. As an added sign of quality, it comes with a 1-year warranty.

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3. Search and Rescue BR-R-66

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Even though here we review the model that extends to a maximum of 19 feet, you should know that there is a 15-foot version available as well, in case you think a shorter version is better suited for you. Luckily, regardless of the model you pick, one thing is sure – you won’t pay much for it. The stainless steel rings and locking bar ensure the ball will be safely kept in place while you collect it from the landing spot.

Its assembly is made with weather-resistant powder-coated aluminum, so durability is granted with it. Another mention-worthy aspect is that the handle is ergonomically designed, thus ensuring you will have an easy time using it when you fish out balls. Additionally, a dual zip cover is included for protection.

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4. Orlimar 15-feet Retriever

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The durability is ensured by the aluminum alloy rod that will not rust or break with ease. It is extremely easy to handle due to the comfortable grip. This also allows you to control it much easier when recovering balls from difficult places.

The shaft can be adjusted and it stretches to a maximum length of 15 feet. The orange head is fluorescent which makes it easy to spot in the water. The head picks up the balls without difficulty and grabs them securely without dropping them. When folded, it measures 48” and it sits conveniently in your bag, allowing you to grab it very easily.

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5. Search N Rescue Two-Ball

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Unlike other models, it is specially engineered to provide collapse-resistance when expanded. Thanks to the telescoping rod, you will find it very easy to transport in the bag. It features a welded steel wire design basket dipped in bright orange epoxy paint for very high visibility that makes it easy to regain possession of balls lost in the water. The handle is covered in rubber to provide a tight grip.

To use it, you just have to place the head behind the ball, pull, and lift. Then to release the ball, you just have to lift the trip wire and remove it. To convince you of its effectiveness, a 1-year protection is provided with the purchase.

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6. I Gotcha Jawz

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As it’s a single-head design, you don’t have to worry about the retriever moving uncontrollably in different weather conditions. Made out of stainless steel, the product is corrosion-resistant. Hence, you can enjoy the same high-quality product for many years to come. The rubberized grip surface will provide an ergonomic hold so you can comfortably use it.

It can spread out up to 10 ft. and it can collapse to 15.5”. Therefore, you can take it wherever you go. It can also reach far distances with minimal effort on your behalf. In comparison to the others in its price range, it has a patent-pending head design with gripping teeth so it’s impossible for the ball to drop out.

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7. Pelican Ball Retriever

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Reaching a maximum length of 12 ft., it is a popular choice among thousands of people. Once retracted, it can reach a minimum length of 43” so you can easily carry it around the course. The yellow nylon cup will tightly grab the ball and requires minimal effort on your behalf. The bright hue also helps make it more visible in water or mud, allowing you to better control it.

The easy twist turn-lock makes it feel straightforward even if you’ve never used one before. The rubber handle measures only 1.1” in diameter to provide an ergonomic grip so you can hold it with ease. The aluminum alloy shaft contributes to ease of use, ensuring your hand will never get tired or sore while handling it.

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8. ProActive Hinged Cup

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It is available in two lengths, namely a 12-foot and a 15-foot version, both made of the same aluminum that maintains the light weight. The hinged cup design promotes it as a top choice for scooping balls out of mud, making it simple to maneuver even at long distances.

Thanks to the rubber handle, you can get a good grip on it and perform the twisting movement that is required to catch the fugitive ball. Once captured, it is secured in place so you won’t lose it in your attempt to lift it. Golfers all over the world appreciate it not only due to its shape but also because it comes at a much cheaper price when compared to most entries on this market.

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9. ProActive Sports 9-foot Retriever

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When retracted, it measures 43.5 inches in length, while when it is extended to the fullest, it provides a 9-foot reach that helps you more easily collect balls that fall in hazardous areas of the course. It features a brushed aluminum shaft that ensures it withstands years of use without a problem, while the ergonomic handle provides comfort as you maneuver it to recover your lost balls.

The bright orange color of the head makes it visible underwater when you are scooping for balls that you lose there. Comprehensive and available at a more than reasonable price, it is an entry that you are sure to enjoy using and a worthy addition to your bag.

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10. JP Lann

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If you want to stop losing balls, the JP Lann will be more than helpful. The telescopic pole extends from 42” to 9′, letting you select the required length. If you wish, you can get the longer versions that can go to 12, 15, or 18 feet, for more access to farther balls.

The rod is made of anodized steel with a convenient rubber shell that provides an easy grip to get a good hold on it. It locks in place at the desired length, so it won’t accidentally collapse while maneuvering it. You can opt for the orange pressure cup that holds onto the ball or the metal hinge head that scoops the ball. Just remember that the orange head is better for use in the water because it’s easier to notice.

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11. Search N Rescue Hinge Cup

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As it can spread to a maximum of 12 feet, it makes for a great companion on the course, allowing you to recover balls that you lose in hard-to-reach spaces like sand traps or lakes. It features a hinged metal cup which ensures that there will be no difficulties in the retrieval process, regardless of the surface you are dealing with.

When it is retracted, it measures 44 inches in length, so it will easily fit into your bag. Because the head is made with cast aluminum, durability is ensured. Furthermore, seeing how the handle boasts an ergonomic shape and is made with anodized aluminum, you are not only ensured convenience in use, but you are guaranteed to have a reliable product by your side as well.

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12. JBM Pick Up Ball Retriever

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This is a ring cup-type grabber that uses a lock bar to make sure the ball is secured in place while scooped from water, sand, or grass. The aluminum tube easily extends to 6 feet, enabling you to reach far areas without stretching your arms too much. To prevent it from slipping, a rubber handle was added, providing a tight grip.

The head that clutches the ball is made of steel and it requires you to locate the ball and put the steel ring over it. Pull or shake the tube to immobilize the ball with the lock bar, then rotate 90 degrees before lifting. It’s a bit harder to use than other models, but once you get the hang of it, you will easily scoop balls from any location.

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13. Mile High Life Suction Cup Ball Grabber

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While not the longest model out there, it will prove useful in many situations. Measuring a convenient 16.5 inches when it is collapsed to allow easy storage in the bag and able to spread to 80” so that you can reach the balls you lose, no matter where they end up, it makes for a worthwhile acquisition for any solemn golfer.

The durable steel shaft ensures years of use without damage, and the latex handle provides a comfortable yet strong grip on it. A claw ball grabber is even included with the acquisition, a piece that you can screw onto the putter’s handle.

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14. Madewell The Original Bag Shag

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With a different approach to catching balls, this item is a top favorite of golfers who want to collect and store balls they have sent in proximity. It contains a claw at the end of a tube, thus grabbing one ball after another, sending them up the tube into the storage textile bag that can store up to 80 balls.

With the rust and break-resistant steel springs and clip, it provides a convenient manner to pick up the balls in any weather, all without having to bend over to grab them yourself. Thus, it spares you from back pain related to this repetitive movement all golfers must do during each game, and it helps save time in the meanwhile. It is available in 4 different colors, more precisely green, black, red, and blue, so you can match it to your usual attire and other equipment. It features a convenient formed handle that delivers a comfortable and easy grip.

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Useful Buying Guide

Just as important in the golf bag as the clubs or any other piece of equipment, it enables you to cut on costs by helping you recover balls that end up in hard-to-reach areas. Of course, there’s the added benefit of not having to hunch after the balls anymore. But what exactly makes a retriever more qualitative? Continue to read if you want to find out and make a quality purchase.

• Length

  No doubt about it, the length is a major aspect to take into account as it indicates how big of a reach you are provided, the bigger the length, the better as you can recover balls that fall in the water or sand and are too far away to grab. To make sure that regardless of the situation you will get the ball back, we recommend you opt for a minimum length of 10 feet when it is stretched. Indeed, you must take into consideration the length when it is retracted as it shows how conveniently it will fit in the bag.

• Material

  Aside from being long, it should be sturdy as well, or it will inevitably bend when extended at full length. If the material it’s made of is thin and doesn’t have texture, the rod will bend and you will not be able to get a good grip on the ball either. The best models are made of aluminum that is lightweight yet resistant and doesn’t change shape when it reaches long lengths. You can also opt for a stainless steel tube that is equally sturdy.

• Grip mechanism

  When you clutch a ball, you need to make sure it stays in place and for that, you must look for models with a firm grip mechanism. Most models have a round compartment that squeezes around the ball when they reach it so it won’t fall again. If the mechanism is not very stable, the ball won’t be grabbed firmly and chances are you will lose it again. Therefore, we recommend you test the grip mechanism before buying it to see how well it holds the ball.

• Brand

  Although not essential, the brand of your sports equipment can count when trying to find a qualitative and durable model. It’s known that reputable brands are more trustworthy when it comes to all kinds of products, and golf retrievers are no exception. Therefore, it’s advisable to go for a model designed by one of the best brands, like I Gotcha or Callaway.

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Frequently Asked Questions





What is the top golf ball retriever?
After analyzing some of the top picks, we concluded that the Callaway model is superior in quality and results. It’s simple to maneuver and manages to grab balls effortlessly while extending 15 feet away.


What does it do?
As its name suggests, it retrieves balls you miss sending into the hole. Some balls land in mud, others get stuck in bushes, while some may fall in ponds or puddles. With this item, you can safely and effortlessly grab and restore your balls every time.


What is the difference between a plastic and a metal handle?
If it has a plastic handle, it’s far easier to bend it and it isn’t necessarily useful in all situations.


It does not specify that it's waterproof, can I still use it in the water?
Yes, as long as it doesn’t have anything electric attached to it, feel free to place it in water or soft mud.


The spring broke, what can I do now?
In this situation please get in contact with the customer support team because they might be able to send you a replacement part.


How do you use a golf retriever?
Most models use a latch system to grab and secure the ball, and it must lock into place. Once the ball is tightly captured inside the cup, you can pull the telescopic shaft to you and get your ball out.





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Conclusion

Losing golf balls in hard-to-reach places is common when on the course, and without a retriever, it would be impossible to recuperate balls that fall in the water, for example. Comfort and convenience are two of the main traits that all of our recommendations boast. Thus, regardless of the pick you end up making, you won’t be disappointed and you will end up saving a lot of money that you would have otherwise spent on new balls to practice and play golf. However, if you’re not sure which unit suits your needs best, let’s quickly review them:

Best Overall: Callaway

It’s no wonder that this brand offers the top choice on our list, considering the qualitative golf gear it provides. Constructed from rust-proof steel, Callaway is well-made and durable, resisting over the years. Even more, its handling is very straightforward, due to the expandable shaft that can spread out up to 15 feet, thus providing you with an extensive reach. Besides, it can retreat up to 45”, ensuring you can conveniently place it in the bag once you’ve recovered the balls.

Editor’s Choice: I Gotcha Ultimate

Featuring an even lengthier reach than other entries, I Gotcha will help you pick up golf balls from up to 18 feet away. Therefore, it allows you to easily reach the ball, regardless of the terrain it has landed on, while its ability to convert back to a smaller form, offers you hassle-free maneuverability. Made from aluminum, it won’t rust nor corrode, so you can safely use it regardless of the weather.

Best Golf Ball Retriever for Mud: ProActive Hinged Cup

While scoring is a rewarding activity, retrieving the winning ball can be, literally, a pain in the back. ProActive Hinged will protect your back from repetitive moves, helping you in retrieving the ball fast and simple. It comes in 4 different sizes, while the rubber handle will provide you with a secure grip over it. At a short weight, it won’t tire your hands as you use it, while the aluminum design will prevent it from rusting or corroding.

Best Golf Ball Retriever for Water: Orlimar 15-feet Retriever

Getting back a golf ball that had the bad luck of falling into water is a difficult operation. However, Orlimar offers you a great solution that will highly diminish the risks of retrieving the ball otherwise. The vibrant orange head makes it easily visible in poor light conditions, such as underwater, so you won’t waste time scooping through the water. It comes with a rubber grip, to provide you with a secure hold over it, while its light weight ensures your hand won’t tire as you hold it. Even more, it can spread up to 15 feet, making it ideal for retrieving balls from ponds.

Best Golf Ball Retriever for Putter: Search N Rescue Two-Ball

With an innovative design, it is capable of catching and holding 2 balls, aiding in shortening the time you spend retrieving missed shots. The solid extended grabbing head makes it simple to maneuver even in harsh conditions. The maximum length it stretches to is impressive, reaching no less than 18 feet, so no ball will be out of your reach. Don’t think that such a length will make it hard to carry around, as the retracted length doesn’t exceed 42”.

Best Golf Ball Retriever for the Money: I Gotcha Jawz

If you’re on a budget, yet you don’t want to abandon your balls on the course, then you should consider this telescopic retriever. For what it costs, it comes with a handful of benefits, like the solid construction that combines steel for the shaft and plastic for the grabbing ring. It extends to 10 feet, so it can easily reach balls that fall into the water or directly into thick bushes. When folded it measures just 15.5”, ensuring it will fit inside any bag, while its light weight will prevent it from weighing you down.