What Does Smooth call Mean in Poker?
A smooth call refers to a situation in poker where a player only calls a bet instead of raising, despite having a strong hand. This strategy is often used to deceive opponents into underestimating the strength of the player’s hand, potentially leading them to bet more in subsequent rounds. Learn more about online poker and how smooth calls can be part of your strategy.
When You Might Hear Or Use The Term Smooth call
In situations where a player wants to keep the pot small while holding a strong hand or is setting a trap by luring opponents into betting more aggressively in future betting rounds.
In-Game Example
You hold AA on a flop of A72. Your opponent bets, and instead of raising, you smooth call to disguise the strength of your hand, hoping to extract more chips on later streets.
Strategy / Tips
- Best Practice: Utilize a smooth call when you’re confident your opponent will continue betting in subsequent rounds.
- Common Mistake: Overusing smooth calls, which can lead to missed opportunities to build the pot when opponents have strong hands or draws.
- Pro Tips: Use smooth calls more frequently in live poker where you can read opponents’ physical tells; be cautious online where reads are limited to betting patterns.
Differences playing over the table vs online
In live games, smooth calling can capitalize on physical tells and table dynamics, whereas online, it requires a keen understanding of opponents’ betting patterns and timing tells.
Alternative names
Flat call, trap call.
FAQs
Q: Can smooth calling be used as a bluff?
A: Typically, smooth calling is not used as a bluff but to disguise hand strength. However, advanced players might use it creatively in specific scenarios.
Related terms
- Trap play
- Flat call
