The hole is such a landmark that people regularly stop by the pro shop just asking to ride out and look at it. Of course, they can play it as well, for a chance to deposit one or more of 120,000 balls that are retrieved from the pond every year.

That Joe Golfer can play it is the best part of TPC Sawgrass. In fact, Dye has designed more great public layouts than any other top architect, enabling millions to enjoy his trademark design features like railroad ties and varied bunker styles (pictured above). 

His top public layouts show remarkable range, from the faux links at Whistling Straits to the desert gem at PGA West. But what they all have in common is an undeniable fun factor that allows players of all abilities to try to pull off as many heroic shots as they want.

“Even the most stringent conservative may be a gambling maniac when it comes to golf,” Dye once said. “I want to make sure risky shots are presented as often as possible.”

If you've never played a Dye course, what are you waiting for? First, check out the 20 courses on this list. For each, we have assigned a "Lost-Ball Meter" to indicate the difficulty: the more balls, the harder the course. 

Then go play one of Dye's best, for a golf experience you'll never forget. Just remember to bring plenty of balls.