Fish in Poker
Here Fishy, Fishy, Fishy…
By J. Phillip Vogel of Bluff Magazine
In the poker world, the term “fish” is anything but flattering. It means a weak player, a sucker; the sort of person that everyone wants at their table because it generally means easy money. Are you that fish? Below are a few basic elements of play to consider before your next game.
You’re a fish if...
…you play before learning the basics of the game. If, in your mind, the button is a part of a shirt, a bluff overlooks a valley and the rake is something that hangs in the corner of the garage, you shouldn’t even consider playing poker for real stakes.
… you see no problem risking $75 on a gutshot straight for a pot worth only $150. Why is that wrong? With only four outs, you’re left with just a 16.5% chance of hitting the straight on the turn or river. To justify betting $75, the pot needs to be at least $380.
…you’re afraid to raise key hands. For example, if you’re sitting with A-K and the flop comes K-10-9, it’s important to raise for a couple of reasons. First, you want to try to drive out other players with weaker hands – don’t give them the chance to make a hand. Second, you want to establish the relative strength of your opponents’ cards before you continue.
…you refuse to lay down a losing hand. If you were dealt 8-8, and the board flops A-K-J suited, it is very likely that other players have made a much better hand. If several players are betting and re-raising after this flop, a strong player knows enough to let the hand go.
…you adopt an “any face or ace” strategy. Many novice players opt to play poor starting hands and bet into a rough flop that offers high risk with little reward. A K-4 off suit is a weak hand that may become dangerous should it slightly improve or result in a straight draw. Many a fish has lost their bankroll chasing a one-way straight or hanging on to a pair with a weak kicker.
Finally, and most importantly you’re a fish if you refuse to take the time to learn your game. Poker is about skill. It involves strategy, mathematics, psychology, and control. You’re ability to win in the long run is dictated not only by how well you play your cards, but how well you can judge your opponents. And always remember: if you’re at a table and you can’t find the fish, chances are, you’re it.
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