The game of poker is a highly competitive one that isn’t always fair. There are many different tactics that players use to try to gain an edge over their opponents, but some of these actions can be deemed unethical. One such method is called angle shooting, and while it may not technically be considered cheating, it can still ruin the experience for other players at a table. In this article, we’re going to take a look at six different ways that an opponent can angle shoot you, and how to spot them.
1. Acting Out of Turn
One common form of angle shooting is when a player acts out of turn, such as betting before their turn to act. This is illegal in live play and can cause confusion for other players at the table, which isn’t fair.
2. Using Tells
Another type of angle shooting is to use tells, or clues, from your opponent to see what their hand is likely to be. For example, if an opponent reaches for chips to make a bet and then quickly puts them back down, this could be a sign that they are holding a strong hand.
3. Making a Fake Bet
Another way to angle shoot is to make a fake bet by pushing forward a stack of chips that isn’t enough to call. This is a common tactic in online poker, where players often hide their stacks of chips behind their screens, but it can also happen in live games. This type of angle shot can be hard to catch, but if an opponent notices the fake bet and tries to call it, they can get caught in a big jam.
4. Using the Chatbox to Give Misleading Information
Finally, angle shooting can sometimes involve giving other players misleading information through the chat box at a live poker room or online poker website. For example, if you say that you’re going to bet out on the flop, but then check behind on the turn, this is an angle shot and could cost you a big pot.
5. The Pump-Fake Bet
This is a particularly dangerous angle shoot because it can be very difficult to catch. In this situation, an opponent will push their chips forward when it’s their turn to act, but the action won’t be there to call. This is a good reason to keep your chips visible at all times!
6. The Incomplete Call