Probably, bluff is the most important and famous tool in Texas Holdem poker strategy. Bluff is widely used and it helps to achieve big heights. Bluffing is dangerous and exciting at the same moment. Definitely it is wonderful to know that you have outclassed your opponent taking big pot without good cards at all. It would be two times more exciting if your opponent folded having AA or KK. But as I said, bluff is dangerous. And it is crucial to learn how to use this tool effectively.

If you think that ability to bluff is enough to win poker games you do not have a chance to be successful. You can be good in bluffing but it is also important to know when to bluff. So, first of all take care about timing. When beginners try to use bluff they make a simple mistake. They bluff too often and opponents start to bite their tactics through. And as soon as strategy can be read, you chances to win go down dramatically.

Basically, bluff should be made in proper time and situation. Don’t try to show off in front of your opponents. Bluff is an important decision and without understanding of the concrete situation bluff is condemned to the failure. If you decide to place a bet holding weak cards, you should try to predict behavior of your opponent. And you definitely MUST believe that he has worse cards than you. If you do not believe in it your bluff would not be convincing.

If you start to notice that your opponents do not believe your bluff it means that you do it too often. But if they can not catch you bluffing just continue sticking to your gun and increase your stake.

The best time to bluff is after several hours of careful players. Especially if you have a reputation of a prudent player. You can build such reputation winning several hands and showing your cards (really strong ones like AA, KK). You should try to start bluffing playing against very careful players and those who fold high cards. Never bluff against maniacs !! It is hopeless . You will be wiped off the table like a flash. It is wise to let them place big bets and taking pot showing your straight against a pair.

Keep in mind that bluff is effective in No-Limit games only. Don’t try to use bluff in Pot-Limit or Blind-Limit Texas Holdem. There are just so many bets and players in limit games that bluff becomes pointless. One of your opponents will definitely collect strong combination at the river or turn and you will have to pay for your unsuccessful bluff.

As I mentioned, bluff is a wonderful Texas Holdem poker tool. And mastering of this tool is a requirement for a person who wants to become strong and winning player. But just don’t use it thoughtless. Don’t move all your chips to the middle of the table at every single hand. Be brave enough, bluff at the right time and your Texas Holdem strategy will generate excellent results.

Also recommended:

1. The Bluff in Texas Holdem
2. About Post-Oak Bluff in Texas Holdem
3. The Check-Raise Bluff in Texas Holdem
4. No-Limit Texas Holdem with blinds $1/$2: which strategy you should use?
5. “Brave call” – the part of Texas Holdem strategy