A Shot Across the Bow

I've made some serious money on pocket pairs. Well, at least, on Jacks and above.

People don't seem to believe I've got the winning hand no matter how much I raise pre-flop, or at the flop. They'll call almost anything.

Maybe its because they can't SEE my hand. If there's 2-5-10 on the board, the only threat they can "see" is a pair of tens, or maybe two pairs -- tens and fives. And who knows, maybe they HAVE one of those pairs. The fact that I'm raising them with overcards, well, the light just doesn't go on for a lot of players until it's too late.

Bluffing works similarly. Players need to see and recognize a CLEAR AND PRESENT DANGER to their financial well being.

Ever missed seeing a straight on a board?

Bluffing, you're counting on your opponent seeing the "scare cards" on the table. That's part of why bluffing works good players versus mediocre ones. They miss less.

You've been looking for signals. The other players are showing signs of weakness -- either small bets, or checking. Now you're about to fire a shot across their bow.

Make sure they can see it.