The Post Oak Bluff

Generally, the more you bet, the less likely you are to get called. That means that when you bluff, you usually want to size those bluffs just as large as your regular bets -- and if you mix your bet sizes, bluffs will probably be more common in your larger bets than your smaller ones.

But what if you have an opponent who knows that all of your small value bets on the river signify a real hand (usually when you think your opponent is weak, and you want to induce a call)? This might be a perfect opportunity to run the Post Oak Bluff. First popularized in Super System, this term refers to making a very small river bet in an attempt to represent the idea that you're just trying to squeeze a little more value out of a weak opponent. If your opponent is observant, they may just pick up on this and fold to all of your tiny bets -- including your Post Oak Bluffs!

In order for this play to be profitable, you'll want to use it against opponents who have a tendency to fold too often, and who have seen you bet a small amount with a big hand before. That combination is likely to increase the chances of you getting a fold with a tiny bet.

You shouldn't expect this play to usually work; most of the time, opponents will find the small size of your bet too appetizing to turn down. However, you should be able to get the Post Oak Bluff to work often enough to show a profit against the right opponents.