This Poker Tactic Makes Money (If You Do It Right)

Imagine this. The flop has checked through after you defended your Big Blind against a player who raised preflop. Now, you're considering whether or not to probe bet (the term for a bet in this situation) on the turn. Do you know which hands to probe bet? And what about the size you should bet?

That's exactly what you're about to learn in this episode of Upswing Poker Level-Up. Mike Brady and poker pro Gary Blackwood will cover the basics of probe betting to help you extract value and bluff effectively in this common spot.

Written Version of this Episode

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There's an incredible module in the Lab all about probing (and delay c-betting) on the turn that will help you master this spot.

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00:00 Introduction to Probe Betting

02:19 Probe Bet Sizing Based on Board Texture

04:59 Building a Probe Betting Range

07:48 Examples of Probe Betting Scenarios

11:38 Balancing Your Range with Strong Hands

13:03 Adjusting Probe Strategy on Overcards

17:30 When to Avoid Probe Betting

19:49 Summary and Key Takeaways

20:24 Upswing Lab Promotion and Closing Remarks

In this episode of our poker strategy podcast, hosts Mike Brady and Gary Blackwood dive into the intricacies of probe betting—a critical but often misunderstood tactic in poker. If you’ve ever wondered when and how to use probe bets effectively, this episode is packed with insights that will help you refine this crucial aspect of your game. By focusing on the turn, where probe betting is most commonly applied, Mike and Gary provide a comprehensive guide to understanding when and why to employ this strategy to maximize your winnings.

The episode kicks off with an introduction to probe betting, explaining its role in situations where your opponent had the opportunity to continuation bet on the previous street but chose not to. Mike and Gary discuss why this can be a prime opportunity to take control of the hand, particularly when your opponent’s range is weakened by their decision to check. They explore how different board textures and your opponent's tendencies should influence your decision to probe bet, emphasizing the importance of adjusting your bet size based on the board and your hand strength.

Listeners will learn how to construct their probe betting range, with examples illustrating when to bet aggressively and when to exercise caution. The hosts break down several common scenarios, such as betting on low-connected boards versus avoiding probe bets on boards that are likely to favor your opponent. They also discuss the nuances of using small versus large bet sizes, depending on the situation, and how to balance your range to prevent being exploited by savvy opponents.

As the episode progresses, the discussion turns to more advanced concepts, including how to adjust your strategy when overcards hit the turn and when it might be better to check and give up on the hand. Gary offers practical advice on identifying the right spots to probe and how to recognize when your opponent's range is most vulnerable.

This poker strategy podcast is a must-listen for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of probe betting and enhance their overall strategy. Whether you’re a seasoned player or just getting started, the insights shared in this episode will give you the tools you need to make more informed and profitable decisions at the table. Tune in, take notes, and get ready to level up your poker game with Mike and Gary’s expert guidance.