The ball lie will change depending on where the ball lands. If it lands in the rough or in a bunker, then it may fly shorter than expected when hit. You can check the ball lie on the 2D course screen, or just after a shot on the options screen or the 3D shot screen.

OB and Water Hazards (NES
Open Tournament Rules)

If a hit ball goes outside of the black OB (Out of Bounds) lines, you will receive a one-stroke penalty and will have to hit the ball from its starting position on the previous stroke. If your ball lands in the water you will also receive a one-stroke penalty, and your ball will be placed on the closest point on land.