Pickleball is a game of finesse, strategy, and quick reflexes. Today, we dive into an advanced technique with none other than Jack Munro, a master of deception on the court.

Jack is here to teach us about one of his signature shots, the bait ball, and how it can help elevate your game by forcing opponents into hands battles they don’t expect.

What Is a Bait Ball?

A bait ball is a carefully placed shot designed to lure your opponent into speeding up play while you remain fully prepared to counterattack. Essentially, it’s a deceptive ball that looks like an opportunity for your opponent but actually sets them up for failure.

Jack describes it as a lofted ball that tempts the opponent to attack, but since he anticipates the shot, he’s in a prime position to win the exchange.

The Mechanics of a Bait Ball

1. Lofting the Ball: The goal is to send a shot that appears attackable but isn’t quite high enough for a strong downward strike. This forces your opponent to flick up on their response.
2. Anticipation: Since you know your opponent will likely try to speed up, you can prepare in advance to counter their move.
3. Positioning: Placing yourself correctly to intercept the counterattack is key. Knowing the patterns of where your opponent’s shot is most likely to land will give you a huge advantage.

Pro Breakdown of 4.5 Pickleball Match Strategy

For the first time, I am excited to review some pickleball gameplay. The video, originally posted on Reddit, features two solid 4.0/4.5 teams in what looks like competitive rec or tournament play. For the sake of anonymity, I will refer to the team closest to the camera

The Dink PickleballEric Roddy

Where to Place a Bait Ball

Jack highlights a few key locations where bait balls are most effective:

• Backhand Flick Zone: Many players prefer to speed up using a backhand flick. By giving them a slightly higher ball in this area, you can control their next move.
• Middle of the Court: Statistically, most players will direct their speed-up shots between two players in doubles play. Knowing this allows you and your partner to position accordingly.
• Near the Sidelines: When executed correctly, a bait ball placed near the sidelines forces opponents into difficult angles, limiting their offensive options.

Defending Against a Speed-Up

Jack explains that when defending a bait ball, players don’t usually have enough time to adjust for both forehand and backhand responses.

Instead, he advises sliding into position and preparing for a backhand counter.

By covering the middle and forcing the opponent to hit up on the ball, you can neutralize their attack.

Drilling Bait Balls Into Your Game

Want to start incorporating bait balls into your strategy? Here’s how:

• Drill Hand Speed: Train your reflexes so you’re ready to counter when an opponent falls for the bait.
• Practice Placement: Work on lofting the ball just high enough to tempt the opponent without giving them a clear putaway shot.
• Anticipate the Response: Learn to read where your opponent is most likely to send their counterattack so you can position yourself accordingly.

While the bait ball is an advanced technique, mastering it can give you a significant edge in pickleball.

As Jack demonstrates, it’s all about strategy, control, and anticipation. So next time you hit the court, consider adding the bait ball to your arsenal and watch how it disrupts your opponents’ rhythm.

For more in-depth strategy breakdowns, check out Jack Munro’s channel. Though, as mentioned, some might argue my content (Zane Navratil Pickleball) is just a bit better ... happy playing!