What Does End Bet Mean in Poker?
An End Bet is a strategic wager made in the final betting round, typically aimed at forcing opponents to fold or extracting maximum value from a strong hand. Learn more about online poker.
When You Might Hear Or Use The Term End Bet
You might hear this term during the river betting round in both cash games and tournaments, where players are deciding whether to make a final aggressive move or to value bet their strong holdings.
In-Game Example
You’re in a heads-up situation on the river with a board of K9462. Holding KQ, you place a substantial end bet to pressure your opponent into folding weaker holdings or to extract value from a hand like KJ.
Strategy / Tips
- Best Practice: Use end bets when you believe your opponent’s range is weak or capped, making them likely to fold to pressure.
- Common Mistake: Overusing end bets against opponents who frequently call down with marginal hands.
- Pro Tips: Adjust your bet sizing based on the opponent’s tendencies; larger bets can polarize your range, while smaller bets might induce calls.
- Differences playing over the table vs online: Live players may be more influenced by physical tells, while online players rely on timing and bet sizing.
Alternative Names
End bet is sometimes referred to as “river bet” or “final bet.”
FAQs
- Q: Should I always make an end bet on the river?
A: Not necessarily; it’s essential to consider your opponent’s tendencies and the strength of your hand. - Q: How can I tell if an end bet is a bluff?
A: Look for inconsistencies in the player’s betting pattern throughout the hand and consider their previous tendencies.
