Poker News

John Carlisle

I try to gather as much information from my opponents as possible. Anything and everything can provide slight insights into their personality and play. Clues may come from their clothes, their relative level of comfort at the table, the amount they drink, what they drink, how they interact with others at the table, etc. All seriouspoker players make this an automatic habit. This is especially difficult during online play, as the internet is nearly the perfect cloak to mask personal characteristics and overall personality. In home games and casinos, the atmosphere is conducive to gathering tons of valuable information in the realm of poker psychology. Getting to know your opponents is a sure way to quick dividends at the table. People play poker as their personality leads them, in most cases. In other words, knowing a player away from the table will certainly aid you in predicting their play at the table. An accountant with three kids from the Midwest will often play differently than an unmarried tattoo artist from Miami. You see, these bits of information provide great insights into their personality. It takes a certain personality composite to be attracted to these professions, lifestyles, etc. I try to be the chatty, friendly guy at the table. Most of the players assume that I am just making casual conversation as I work in questions about their jobs, their hometown, or even their favorite production shows. The question about the best show in town is one of my favorites. Being a regular player in the area, I know darn well all about all of the shows in town. My question is not a genuine inquiry into a show recommendation. For that, I’d be going to the hotel concierge. Instead, I am looking for some more bits of personal information. This (and other)questions seem harmless to answer for even the most careful casino poker player, but it can provide an opening for information to be divulged. It tells me if they are tourists or locals, for one. This tells me if the focus of their trip is gambling or entertainment.

For instance, if a player excitedly recommends an energetic, trendy show like Zumanity or Blue Man Group, I anticipate an aggressive or looser player who is looking to see many pots. These players crave entertainment and excitement, and are not likely to sit patiently to wait on monster hands. Players who mention Vegas staples like Rita Rudner and Celine Dion are much more likely to play tight, patient, and selective. On the other hand, I get a solid read if the question is met with a scoff and a reaction such as, “I don’t do the shows and such, because I stick to the poker room.”

Home games make this even easier. Mingling and casual conversation is the norm, rather than the exception. Everyone feels very comfortable talking about their family, hobbies, work, and even their poker experience. Always plan to arrive at these informal games early to scout your opposition. Be sure to greet every player and as you ask questions, you can gather information. On the flip side, be sure to do your best to not expose too much to the poker sharks at the table. I have never once revealed myself at the casino’s poker table for being a poker writer or a mental health counselor. Instead, I’ve introduced myself as everything from a politician to an organist at the local church.

I always attempt to exude misinformation as much as possible. I’ll present myself as a tourist even if the floor manager and I might be friends. I’ll wear wild clothing and drink hard liquor on a night that I might be playing patiently and tight/aggressive. I know these subtle clues will play a part in the table image that is being perceived. It is all in tune with keen poker psychology - know your opponent and don’t let them know you. Now go make it happen.

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