Sunday, September 18, 2011

Floating

These days, everyone knows about the continuation bet, and a lot of poor players will consistently make continuation bets after raising preflop -- but then almost always give up on the turn if you call that first bet, unless they really have a hand. If you're looking for a way to exploit this type of player, then floating might be the answer.

Floating is a simple concept: you call with a very weak hand, hoping to then bluff your opponent off the hand on the next street. Because you called, your opponent isn't likely to put you on a total bluff (unless you and your opponent are both strong players, and you both know it). If your opponent is out of position and checks to you on the turn, you can then make a bet as a bluff -- one that will be successful very often.

Floating is best used against mediocre players who, as mentioned above, have a tendency to play aggressively on the flop but then give up against any resistance. It's also a great way to mix up your play against strong players in general -- provided you don't overuse it. Floating is best used sparingly as a way to take advantage of your opponents and keep them guessing; use it just a little, and you'll not only pick up some pots you otherwise wouldn't have won, but you may also get a little more action when you really do have a hand.

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