What The Right Thing to Do When You Retrieve Someone Else’s Disc?

When you retrieve a disc golf disc with someone's phone number on it, the courteous and appropriate thing to do is to contact the owner and offer to return the disc.

1. Text or Call the Number

A short, polite message works best. For example:

"Hi, I found your disc (color/brand if visible) at [Course Name]. Let me know if you'd like to get it back!"

Texting is often better than calling, as it's less intrusive and gives the person time to respond.

2. Arrange a Return

If they respond and want the disc back, you can:

• Meet up at a mutually convenient course or location.

• Leave it at the course's lost and found if available.

In my experience about 50% of the people the people that respond, tell you to just keep the disc.

3. If There's No Response

If they don’t reply after a few days or weeks, it’s generally considered acceptable to:

• Keep it and use it.

• Pass it on or donate it.

• Leave it in the course's lost and found bin.

Just make a reasonable effort first.

Optional Bonus:

Some people include their PDGA number or social media handle on discs. If the phone number doesn’t get a response, and you’re feeling extra considerate, a quick look-up might help you track them down.

Returning a disc builds good karma and community—many disc golfers pay it forward when they get one back!