The hardest standard checkout in darts is usually considered 170, known as the big fish. It is the highest three-dart finish: treble 20, treble 20, bull.
Other checkouts can feel harder in practice depending on the player, but 170 is the biggest possible standard finish and one of the most iconic shots in darts.
Quick answer
The 170 checkout is T20, T20, bull. It needs two perfect treble 20s and then the bullseye, with no spare dart for an easy recovery.
Why 170 is called the big fish
“Big fish” is darts slang for the 170 checkout. It is the biggest finish you can take out in three darts under standard double-out rules, so it has become a famous pressure shot.
Why 170 is so hard
- You need two treble 20s before the bull even matters.
- The final dart is at the centre bull, not a large double.
- One missed treble usually removes the checkout.
- It often happens under match pressure.
Are there harder-feeling checkouts?
Yes. Some players dislike awkward routes such as 163, 164 or finishes that force targets they do not like. But 170 is the highest standard checkout, which is why it is usually the headline answer.
How to practise 170
Do not only throw at 170 once and stop. Practise the route in parts. First practise two darts at treble 20. Then practise bull finishes. Then combine them: T20, T20, bull. You can also practise from 167, 164 and 161 to learn neighbouring big finishes.
Related guides
Other difficult high checkouts
Finishes such as 167, 164 and 161 are also difficult because they require multiple trebles and a clean final dart. They are slightly lower than 170, but in a match they can feel just as demanding.
Why 170 gets the attention
170 is famous because there is no bigger standard checkout. It has a simple route, a memorable name and a dramatic final dart at bull. That makes it easy for crowds, commentators and players to recognise.
Practice routine for big finishes
Pick one big checkout and give yourself three visits to take it out. If you miss, reset to the same number and try again. This trains route memory and pressure without needing to play a full leg every time.
170 versus awkward finishes
There is a difference between the highest checkout and the checkout a player personally hates. A 170 has the highest status, but some players find finishes like 153 or 158 awkward because the route does not suit their preferred doubles. That is why checkout practice should include both famous finishes and uncomfortable ones.
Miss planning
On 170, a missed first treble usually ends the checkout attempt. On lower finishes, a missed treble may still leave a route. This lack of recovery is part of why the big fish feels so demanding.
Bottom line
The hardest standard checkout is 170: treble 20, treble 20, bull. It is the biggest possible three-dart finish and one of the best-known pressure shots in darts.
FAQs
What is the big fish?
The 170 checkout.
Can you checkout 171?
No, not in three darts under standard scoring.
What is the route for 170?
Treble 20, treble 20, bull.
