While it is true that bluffing is a very important part of playing poker, it is never a good idea to overdo it when it comes to trying to bluff the other players at the table. Not only will this allow players to see through you as it will make you extremely transparent, but it is like pulling all of your tricks out of your sleeve at one time, leaving nothing left to the imagination. It is not possible to bluff with every single hand. Eventually someone is going to become wise to what you are doing in your bluffing will prove ineffective. Bluffing should be saved for moments when you absolutely need it the most and have no other goodies in your bag of tricks.
A very good example of when the best time to bluff would be is when you are already into the pot for entirely too much and you know that you have virtually nothing in your hand. At this point you can choose to fold and lose whatever you’ve already ante up or you can choose to throw all caution to the wind and bluff your way out of it with a major bet. Beware that this may not always end well and there’s a very good possibility that someone will call you on your bluff and you will lose anyway. However, if you are left with absolutely no choice and you already sent to lose a lot of money there is no harm in at least trying.
October 14, 2011
General, Strategy