Beware of these Bluffing Blunders
Winning a poker hand with a bluff is always a triumphant feeling for any online poker game. It makes it tempting to try bluffing to see what you can get away with.
Bluffing should be done with a plan in mind and very selectively. If your opponents think you are a habitual bluffer, you will rarely be able to successfully execute a bluff in a poker game.
Remember these tips and beware of some of the pitfalls that can trip up bluffing:
* Bluffing when you first sit down at a table is inviting callers. The others have not really seen you play, so they will be curious about which hands you do bet. Wait and play your cards for a few rounds and get a sense of the other players before you attempt any bluffs.
* When you are low on chips, you are more likely to get called. Other players will wonder if you are desperate and just trying to make a move, provoking someone to call to find out. With a short stack, you have no real leverage to scare anyone and are probably presenting decent pot odds for a call.
* Frequently firing big blast bluffs at the other players often backfires when you do run into an opponent with a strong hand. Bluffing just for bullying sake will get you caught in some tough situations when you run up against a rock.
* Bluffing works best when the table sees you as a tight player. If you have been consistently folding your hands as if you hate to ever part with a chip, then the occasional bluff will more likely be successful.
* A naked bluff – with complete raggy cards – from early position is very risky. It is better to attempt a bluff with hand that can improve such as straight and flush draws.
