What is a "float" in poker?

[ProGambler]

A "float" in poker refers to a tactical move where a player calls a bet on one street with a relatively weak hand or draw with the goal of winning the pot on the next. The float is a method used to take advantage of opponents that frequently place continuation bets but are likely to fold if met with resistance. It is a type of bluffing.

Here is how a float usually operates:

Situation: The float typically happens during the post-flop betting rounds in no-limit or pot-limit games, particularly in Texas Hold'em.
Initial Bet: After being the preflop aggressor, an opponent places a continuation bet on the flop.

 

[CR7]

Float Play: The player who called the initial bet with a weaker hand or a draw decides to call instead of raising at this point, which is a classic float move. The float is a way to buy time and potentially bluff their opponent on future streets by indicating that they picked up a piece of the flop.

The Turn: When the turn is dealt, if the opponent checks, the player executing the float may decide to make a substantial bet, representing great strength or a made hand, which is usually an unexpected move. The sudden aggression can be a surprise to the opponent and can force them to fold unless they have a strong hand.

If the initial aggressor calls or raises the turn bet, the player making the float will typically abandon their bluff and fold their weaker hand. If the player executing the float continues betting on the turn and river, it is referred to as a "double float."

Floats are commonly used as a part of a more extensive strategy to throw off an opponent's game and make pot-stealing easier. Bear in mind, though, that playing the float game requires a lot of skill, experience, and a thorough understanding of your opponents' playing tendencies. It can be an effective tool when used sparingly and at the right moments to take advantage of the situation and the opponents' playing styles.

 

[Crazy_winner]

Your plan to move later in the hand is essential to a float. It is not your intention to call the flop bet in the hopes of taking the pot straight away. Rather, you want to wait and see how your opponent responds before moving on to the next street.

 

[Dallax]

There are a few reasons why a player might float. One reason is to gather more information about their opponent's hand. By calling on the flop, the floater can see how their opponent reacts on the turn and river. This information can be used to make better decisions about how to play their hand.

 

[Jamesson]

The key aspect of a float play is that you don't intend to win the hand based on the current strength of your holding. You are betting that your opponent will check later in the hand, allowing you to take control without showdown value.

 

[maddy123]

A "float" in poker is a play where a player calls a bet on the flop with the intention of bluffing on later streets. For example, if a player has a weak hand and the flop comes with three low cards, they may call the bet on the flop in order to bluff on the turn or the river. This is a risky play, as the player is essentially putting more money into the pot without any guarantee of winning. However, if it is executed correctly, it can be a very profitable move. This type of play is most commonly seen in no-limit hold'em, where players have more

 

[Commycool]

A "float" is a term used in poker to describe a bluff that is made after the flop. Essentially, a float is a bet or raise made by a player who has a weak hand but is hoping to represent a stronger hand than they actually have. The goal of a float is to get other players to fold and allow the player to win the pot without having to show their hand. Floats can be risky, as they often require a significant amount of skill and knowledge of the game to be successful.