Don't Bluff

Alright, you get it, don't bluff. Now are you calling my bluff not to bluff?

Actually there is some truth be told in the post title. Truth is it depends on the game of poker where you shouldn't bluff. For games like limit hold'em, it's always best not to bluff. Bluffing can cause a huge financial problem especially if you're not good a bluffing. Many times limit hold'em games allow many players to limp in, allowing more showdowns. The main reason why you'll see more limit games at casinos is simply because players have control over their actions and they know that there's a betting cap per round - overall they know someone can't go all in at anytime, which makes things easier on weaker players. Casinos capitalize on this because they've noticed that more players will put more money into a conservative game rather than a loose game, like no-limit, making the rake bigger. Bastards.

So for limit hold'em, especially house games where you have that favorite friend who loves to play sheriff, don't bluff. But hey, this is poker, so we've established a little system of when you should bluff and when you shouldn't:

When to bluff:

1. Bluff when the pot looks dead to everyone. This is where your Mike Caro voodoo mind tricks come in. First check the atmosphere of the table. If everyone looks like they're going to fold, drop in a bet to see how much they'll bite. To lower this risk, make sure the pot is small. Many times these little bully wins will add up to a heavy stack of chips to use down the road.

2. Bluff when you're up against some rocks (the super conservative players who only stay and play with premium starting hands). You'll always have one or two. If you're going to push the pot around, make sure you're bouncing that energy against these guys. But obviously if they decide to stay, you better decide to fold.

3. Bluff when you've got to make a move. Hey, sometimes the chips are down and the tournament's about to up the blinds that'll kill your stack. If you're going to bluff, now is the time to do it. I understand a chip is always a chair, but come on, if you're down to a few bucks, get a pair and go for it. The river always surprises even the best of us.

4. Bluff on position. If you haven't read our post on positions, then now's the time. In poker your position gets you a massive advantage, especially in your late positions or even button positions. Tournament play usually follows the bully on the button. If you're going to bluff, get into a position to steal some blinds. If you're a few seats to the right of those rocks, even better. Worst that can happen you lose a small bet and fold.

In regards to all that big bluffing strategy they showcase on ESPN is exactly that, a showcase. That isn't how it is in the real world. Besides not showing bluffs and big hands, poker can get really boring to watch - they only show those clips to keep you watching. Don't be fooled by the camera, those big plays are just for show. Stick to solid playing and bluff when the timing is right.

Be sure to follow me @pokercinch or email me at snailderail@gmail.com for more information.