When it comes to 7 card stud, a player's ability to bluff will decide how the game ends for that individual.
Although it may sound simple, bluffing isn't something that all poker players are able to do convincingly. Seasoned poker players will easily see through a weak bluff and will then manipulate the situation to their own advantage. These tips on bluffing the board in 7 Card Stud will help players to fine tune their ability to bluff. Here is some advice on when to and when not to bluff.
Bluffing the Board
A bluff has a chance of being effective only when the player does it after he/she has read the boards. Bluffing in a hurry, on a whim, in frustration or anger will lead to naught. These kinds of emotional bluffs are very likely to get called, or worse, the veterans at the table will easily lead the poor bluffer in to a trap as the game progresses.
In 7-card stud, before bluffing a player should note the betting patterns of the opponents, the chip stacks that each has and the odds that are being played for. With this information a player will be able to generate a mental picture of the opponents' hands. It is very important to weigh oneself up against the opposition.
If a player is getting away with too many easy bluffs, it is time to sit back and take a closer look at the action, you could be heading into a trap. Remember that good bluffs will need to rhyme with how things are on the board. If the opposite is tried and meets with success then it is best not to overdo it.
Know the strong hands and the weak hands. Unless a player knows one from another bluffing will be impossible. Bluffing the board is not easy but with the right approach it is definitely possible.
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