By Carol Fisher-Linn
It’s golf season – let’s play. Golf’s not an addiction, it’s therapy!
Not being a golfer, I’ve never had golf fever, but I know it’s real. Why? Because AI told me so. And whatever AI says must be true, right? “Golf fever is a contagious passion for the sport, characterized by an uncontrollable urge to hit the links, buy new gear, or follow tournaments.” From my thorough, professional and intense research, I have found that once you catch it, there is NO CURE! But take heart, there is an upside. I am told by professionals who deal with golf obsessed individuals that it is a way to breathe, to reset and to escape the angst of the world. Bonus: there is also a very effective treatment to keep it under control – More golf! As with any good therapy, you must do it faithfully over time, so to keep you in good health
It turns out that we in the Southern Tier must live in golfer’s paradise with the number of full courses available for golf therapy. From Birch Run in Allegany to Waterway Hills in Cuba, there are at least eight courses in Cattaraugus County and the unique Bigfoot course on Robbins Road near The Distillery in Ellicottville. In Chautauqua County one loses count (25?) as we begin with Bemus Point and end at Woodcrest in Mayville.
As Elkdale Country Club in Salamanca approaches their 100-year milestone in 2027, their Head Golf Professional, Alex Fisher tells us this: “the club continues to evolve while staying true to its roots. Its blend of history, thoughtful design, and strong community ties has made it a lasting presence in Western New York golf. Elkdale plays to a par 70 at 6,132 yards from the championship tees, offering an enjoyable yet engaging test for golfers of all skill levels. The 18-hole layout rewards thoughtful course management while still allowing opportunities for more aggressive play, creating a balance that appeals to both seasoned players and those newer to the game. Elkdale operates as a semi-private club, a model that has allowed it to become both a strong membership community and a welcoming destination for public play. This balance is central to the club’s identity — providing members with a sense of pride and community while remaining accessible to the public.”
At Elkdale, golfers will find a driving range, short game area, and putting green. The club-house serves as a social hub for members and guests alike, and the bar and grill is open to the public and provides a comfortable setting for casual dining, private gatherings, and banquets. Lunch daily from 10am-4pm; Friday Night Dinners are reservation-only from 5pm-9pm; Sunday Breakfast is served from 8am-2pm and Wing Night is back with wings at just 75 cents each. Green fees with a cart ranging from $36 to $75 depending on the number of holes, day and time. www.elkdalecountryclub.com 4673 Route 353 (Stone Chimney Rd.) Salamanca, 716-945-5553
In Chautauqua County we visit Bemus Point Golf Club, a regulation style 9-hole public course on 67 acres that stretches for 2,984 yards from the longest tees; it is a par 36. Located just a short walk from Chautauqua Lake, it is a year-round destination. When the golf course sleeps in off-season the Tap House kicks into overdrive with amazing chef-designed food, 20 craft beers, cocktails, live music, and an ever-changing round of community events and fundraisers that they generously support. They are proud to announce that they are to be featured on “America’s Best Restaurants Roadside U-Tube Channel,” possibly dropped around July 26. In 2025, Bemus Point Golf Club and Tap House was honored as Chautauqua County Business of the Year by The Chautauqua by the Chautauqua County Chamber of Commerce. They are family and pet friendly.
Green fees average consistently around $30 for a nine-hole round, with no weekend or weekday pricing changes. Cart fees are priced separately. They offer junior and youth golf rates and season passes in all categories. Check with them about senior-specific rates. No tee times needed, just show up and they will get you out on the course. Please note that the course will be closed during their annual Memorial Day Golf Scramble on Sunday, May 24th from 9am-4pm. Their public 9-hole golf course is open all weekend. No tee times needed, just show up and they will get you out on the course. 716-386-2893, 72 Main St. Bemus Point, 716-386-2893 www.bemustaphouse.com.
Each week, we will feature two golf courses open to the public: one in Cattaraugus County and one in Chautauqua County. If you have a suggestion on who should be on the list, let us know! It’s easy, simply logon to thevillagerny.com and click the “General Submissions” tab.