Online poker - Finding the fish

Online poker, one of the most intriguing and popular games of today’s era, has been followed by many millions across the globe. While everyone is here to win, it is imperative to understand that “You win some and you lose some”. The secret to winning at online poker is to pick the right targets to play against and have an eye to figure out who is the fish and who is the shark at the table. As in any game, online poker also dictates that the odds are on the experienced player against the inexperienced one. So, going against the right player at the right time is the secret to success at online poker. Finding your fish is easy if you follow these tips:

Keep your ears open

At an online poker table, keep your ears open for comments and eyes open for chats that might say “It’s about time I get something”, “I’m not getting cards”, or “I can’t hit flops”. These are the signs of frustration expressed by some people who can’t help it when things turn against them. It’s a sign when the player will begin to bluff and will increase his risks in the next few hands. Also, keep your senses aware to comments like “Hey, how do you …” or “This online poker thing is cool” since these comments identify a newbie. Newbies are slack in their play and they pay for it later on. Not only will you win against them but also teach them a trick or two. They are the fish…!

Automatic Checks/Calls/Raises

UK Online poker rooms are built with check boxes that facilitate players to instantly raise, call or fold. Always try and keep tabs on who is using them. When a player auto calls pre-flop most of the time, since they like to see cheap flops, a new hand may take more time and make a raise. This is an indication that the player has a strong hand. Human beings are creatures of habit and we often play the same way every time (a very bad habit in poker). So, when a player’s play behavior changes suddenly, something is amiss. Breaking a pattern does not come without a motive or reason. The biggest challenge here is to figure out if the change is a strength or weakness and play accordingly.

Apologizing and extending time

A player who is constantly saying “sorry for the wait” is a player distracted. This could mean that they are playing more games at the same time or they are into some other activity in parallel. They are not attentive and hence will make some really bad decisions. This player is not analyzing the game and is not concentrating. This is a “fish” - make him pay for his lack of concentration! 

Online poker is a game of concentration. The more attentive you are the higher your chance of winning. Don’t be a fish, be a shark!