Winning with a worthless hand

On my recent games, I noticed something.

Most amateur poker players (like me) operate on a simple rule: if you don't have a pair or a draw on the flop, you fold.

I did some research and found out this actually has a name 😂

This hidden edge that pro players use to punish this predictable mindset is called "floating."

Here's how it works:

When a player raises pre-flop, they will often fire a continuation bet on the flop, regardless of whether the cards actually helped them.

But there's a little detail often missed, most players don't have the courage to fire a second bluff on the turn if they still have nothing.

When you "float," you call their flop bet with total air. To your opponent, your call can represent quiet strength, maybe a hidden set, top pair, or a strong draw.

Then the turn comes, and your opponent checks.

That's often a sign of weakness.

Because you held your ground on the flop, a well-timed bet on the turn can put immense pressure on them and force them to fold a large percentage of the time.

You didn't win because of your cards.

You won because you recognized that your opponent's aggression was a one-shot bluff, and you used their turn check to slam the door shut.

Does anyone else know about this move?