Caribbean Stud Poker Playing Strategy

Submitted by Henry T.

Two common playing mistakes are...to fold when you have a small pair, or to bluff the dealer by making a call bet when they have a weak hand.

Never fold small pairs. You will be dealt a pair about 42 percent of the time, and you'll win more (or lose less) in the long run by making the call bet rather than to fold (the casino has about a 7 percent edge against players who fold on small pairs).

Also, never try to bluff the dealer! Some players mistakenly believe they can win more hands by making the call bet when they have a weak hand. They figure that the dealer who doesn't qualify pays off the ante wager for players who stay in (i.e., make the call bet) regardless of whether the player has a strong or weak hand. The problem with this strategy is that when the dealer does qualify (and he will about 56 percent of the time), then you lose not only the ante bet but also the call bet (which is twice the ante bet). Mathematically, a player who bluffs with a weak hand will lose 25 percent more of his ante over the long run than if he folded. Bottom line don't bluff!

Basic Playing Strategy

1. Fold if you have less than Ace-King.

2. Make a call bet if:

• You have at least any pair or higher.
• You have at least an Ace-King, and one of your other cards is the same as the dealer's face card.

Thanks to Henry T for this tip. Enjoy the extra spending cash, Henry!