The sucker at the table when you play poker is called a fish or “donkey”. Fish in poker is basically a derogatory term for a player who is not very good at poker. Pisces in poker make egregious mistakes and often lose. This is because they usually play for fun and don’t see poker as a long-term way to make money. The main thing that separates poker fish from your average player is the consistency and extent of their mistakes. Poker is a complex game and even the most experienced players are prone to making mistakes. The difference is that good players try to control the number and severity of their mistakes.
What is a fish in poker? Poker fish, on the other hand, consistently make mindless moves that cost them mistakes. They tend to limp too much, play too many hands and criticize everyone else – all the while not having a set strategy and making things up as they go. So let’s take a close look at this beginner (and non-rookie) mistakes to make sure you can spot fish at your table within minutes of your next poker game.
How to Take Advantage When You Spot a Fish in Poker
You have identified the fish – now what? Here are a few steps to help you get the upper hand once you spot the fish in poker:
- Always respect the poker fish
Being rude to poker fish means letting go of your game’s main source of profit. If you’re going to take all their money, it’s in your best interest to be kind to them throughout the game. Don’t be discouraged if they don’t know the rules well or make amateur mistakes. Instead, keep quiet or compliment them. Say something like, “Wow, you played really well, you just got unlucky in the end.” This will keep them in the game and your pockets full for the rest of the night.
- Follow Their Strategy
Just like in the real world, the world of poker comes with different kinds of fish. Therefore, you need to follow each player’s strategy and target it accordingly.
We have classified poker fish strategies into three common types:
- A passive poker fish that calls a lot. These are the types of players you will encounter the most, especially if you play online. Only bet against them when you have a good hand, and if these players raise, be prepared to lay down.
- A poker fish that constantly bluffs. A fish that constantly bluffs usually also has poor control over its aggression. If they think others have a weak hand, they are more likely to keep raising. Therefore, if you have a strong hand, refrain from re-raising; rather, call them only occasionally. This will encourage them to keep bluffing even if you have the strongest hand.
- A poker fish that only folds. The strategy for these players is obvious: just keep pocketing them unless there is reason to suspect they have a premium hand.
- Have confidence and discipline
Beating the poker fish and everyone else at the table starts with self-confidence. You need to look professional, put on a poker face, and leave emotion at the door. And no matter how much money you may lose, stay graceful and don’t let your nerves get the best of you.