Bluffing in Hold’em

A bluff is a term used when you make an opponent believe you have a better hand than you have actually been dealt; this then causes your opponent to fold. There is also a semi-bluff and this is where unlike a total bluff you don’t have a useless hand but it’s not the best hand in the world and you are playing in the hopes of hitting a card or two to win.

Why Bluff

In any game of Hold’em, most of the money you win will come from having the best hand on the showdown. Trying to win every round by bluffing won’t work as your opponent will soon figure this out, but by bluffing every now and again you are making your opponent think even harder and placing extra pressure on his choices.

When to bluff

As a rough rule, bluffs have a better chance of working when you are playing at a tight table as people are reluctant to play against a strong hand. If you are playing at a loose table the players might be all too eager to call and play your bluff.

If you are playing at a low limit table there is not much point trying to bluff as you are playing for such small amounts your opponents are more than happy to call your bluff.

Trying to bluff from a late position during the hand is always the best option if you want to try and buy the pot. Bluffing is not wise early on as you don’t have a clue as to whom may of hit their hand, or been dealt a great hand. Also remember that the more people you are trying to bluff early on in the hand the more chance you have of someone working it out that you are bluffing.