When there is poker, you should always expect that there is also bluffing. It’s the most important strategy that can singlehandedly help you win matches and games. Bluffing is essentially tricking your opponents into thinking that you have a weak hand, and the goal is to get them to fold. 

Of course you’re not just gonna bluff all the way and think that you’ll win instantly. You need to master the art of bluffing, the timing, you have to be keen with your observation skills, and so on and so forth. In short, you should know when to use it. With this, you need to be on the lookout for certain things: your opponent, your image, and the betting history. If you want to try bluffing in your next poker game when you play poker online in the Philippines, then let’s go over each one. 

Your Opponents

Bluffing only works best when you choose the right opponents for your own good. If your bet makes them fold, then your bluff works, but if they call, then it fails. Keep in mind to try bluffing only one opponent at a time as it’s usually easier to bluff one player than multiple ones. Also, avoid bluffing against players that are likely to call and who don’t think much about your bet. Those kinds of players are either noobs or stonecold poker players who can see right through you. 

Take into consideration how your opponents have been playing recently. For example, if they’ve lost too much and are upset or frustrated, it’s best not to bluff against them because they might play too carelessly. On the other hand, if they’ve just won a big pot or they’re too focused on protecting their stack, they might be likely to fold which then makes them a better target for your bluff. 

Your Image

Your image across the table will have effects on how well your bluff will work. If you’re known to be the tight player who only bets with strong hands, your bluffs can be believed and you’ll succeed. But, if you’re a person who’s wild and recklessly betting, then your bluffs can be ineffective because opponents are more likely to call you. This is why it’s important to consider how you’re perceived in the table and adjust your bluffs accordingly. 

Betting History of the Hand

You thought that your bet history doesn’t do much? Wait until your opponents got you all figured out. If you’re betting pattern doesn’t make sense with the hand you’re trying to represent, seasoned opponents will get it right away. For example, if you’re trying to bluff that you hit a flush on the river, your previous bet should support that story. 

 

Conclusion

In poker, bluffing can be very effective against opponents who are also newbies and those who are testing the waters. But it takes time and effort to master it as it is very complex. Many rookie players tend to bluff too often without realizing that’s a mistake. So before attempting to bluff, think about all the things we discussed. 

If you’re new to poker, it’s just wise to avoid bluffing too much at first. You need to do it in baby steps. By learning from resources and gaining experience, you’ll better understand bluffing and other poker strategies when you play online poker in the Philippines. With time and practice, bluffing will come naturally to you without trying too hard.