How to unmask a Bluffer at the Poker table?

Behind every bet, there is a story. Sometimes true, sometimes made up. Bluffing in poker is a bit like a shadow game, where everyone tries to outsmart their opponent’s plans. But how can you distinguish truth from lies? What are the signs that give away a bluffer?

Follow our guide on Casino King and discover the keys that will help you decode your opponents' behavior at the poker table.

What is bluffing in poker?

Bluffing in poker is a bit like playing a game of deception. The goal? To convince our opponents that we hold a much stronger hand than we actually do, in order to make them fold. It’s a risky bet, but one that can pay off big if we manage to fool our opponents.

The different tells (or signs) of Poker players

Poker is a bit like a criminal investigation. Every player is a potential suspect, and every action is a clue. By learning to recognize tells, you’ll become a real Sherlock Holmes of poker. Discover the signs to unmask bluffers:

The Beginner’s Classic

The appearance of weakness often hides a strong hand. Sighing, shrugging, or showing feigned boredom... these are all signals that can betray a very strong hand. This contrast between facial expressions and hand strength is a very common tell, especially among inexperienced players.

Breathing

Observing your opponents' breathing can be very revealing. This physiological mechanism, which is difficult to control, is often a reliable indicator of their emotional state. An accelerated heartbeat, resulting in faster breathing, can be a sign of either a strong hand or tension related to a bluff.

Position at the Table

A player’s position at the table is an essential element in detecting bluffs. Players in early position often have to play solid hands, while those in late position have more freedom to bluff. A large bet early in the betting round is generally more credible, while a large bet in late position can be interpreted as a bluff attempt.

Glancing repeatedly at their Poker Hand

Unlike experienced players who try to conceal their emotions, beginners, when holding a strong hand, tend to look at their cards multiple times, as if to reassure themselves. This reflex can betray their excitement and give an advantage to other players at the poker table.

Covering their mouth

Touching the lips is a common tic among bluffing players. It's often an unconscious gesture, an attempt to control nervousness or accelerated breathing that reveals their bluff.

Different nervous habits

Nervous tics are as varied as the players themselves. Some scratch their nose, others tap their foot, while some tend to stare fixedly at a particular spot. These small habits, repeated in similar situations, can reveal a bluff. That’s why it’s important to pay attention to every detail.

The Chip Reflex

A player who starts handling their chips immediately after seeing their cards or after the flop often reveals a strong hand. This gesture reflects anticipation of the upcoming action: they are already considering the bet they will make. It’s a sign that they are confident in their hand and are preparing to commit chips.

The sound of the voice

Hoodies and sunglasses aren’t enough to hide all tells. Even if a player tries to conceal themselves behind these accessories, their voice often betrays their emotions. A confident tone or clear voice is often a sign of a strong hand, whereas an awkward silence or a trembling voice can betray a bluff.