Foreword

You’ve finally found the perfect poker table and opened up a hand. Then your opponent raises and the money is out. Big money, to be exact! While this seems too good to be true, you may start to ask yourself if your opponent is bluffing. Bluffing in poker is often a risky tactic that can pay big bucks of time if practiced properly. So, here are some guidelines to help you bluff in poker and increase your winning odds.

What is Bluffing in Poker?

Whether you’re playing poker at an online casino or in a brick-and-mortar setting, you’ll always be on the lookout to increase your odds. Essentially, bluffing is any type of deceit that a poker player resorts to in order to win. This can make strong hands look weak, or soft hands look strong. The main purpose of bluffing is to get players with better hands to fold. Having said that, there are two main types of poker bluffs. They include:

• Pure Bluff – Sometimes called a cold bluff, a pure bluff is a raise or bet that involves a bad hand. In most cases, the chances of improving the hand are minimal or zero. Players who practice this poker bluff believe they can only win when all other players fold. You definitely need a convincing poker face to do this!
• Semi-bluff – In a semi-bluff, you have a better chance of winning as long as you get called. This bluff is best in games with several rounds of betting, as bad hands can improve on subsequent rounds. Generally speaking, a semi-bluffing player can only take the pot if all opponents fold immediately. Someone mentioned quick bluffs – arguably the most popular type of bluff in poker. Here, no one at the table has a significant investment in the pot. Therefore, when the big bet comes, most bettors will likely fold. Make a quick bluff and you’ve got your prize.

How to Bluff Effectively in Poker

First, you need to choose the best time to bluff. Bluffing when there’s a lot of action in the early stages of the game is suicidal. The best time to bluff is when you are in a late position, as this is when little action is taken. Also, only bluff when necessary and you are sure your opponent can fold.

For new players, never bluff when you know the stakes are too high. While it may seem tempting to use this trick to catch big pots, bluffing is always more effective when the stakes are lower. In this situation, your opponent is more likely to fold. Also, you don’t lose much when your bluff gets called. In short, smaller bets can make your opponent more convincing.

Another critical yet grossly underestimated factor is your desktop image. Whether you play poker, blackjack, baccarat or any other table game, the image of your table is crucial. That’s because what other people at the table think of your appearance will more or less contribute to the success of your bluffs. Therefore, only bluff if you are sure that your game is tight and aggressive, as other players are more likely to believe your bluff.

Conclusion

Most punters don’t know how to bluff effectively in poker. To become a master, you must first convince other players of your gaming skills. Also, only perform this trick if you feel it is necessary. But most importantly, bluff at regulated online casinos as they may be more forgiving about bluffing. Remember that bluffing in poker is no guarantee of success, just like any other gambling strategy.