This time I would like to summarize the float tactic.
◆Float Tactics◆
A float tactic is generally a tactic that involves calling against a player who has the upper hand post-flop with no hand equity or with low hand equity such as a gutshot or backdoor draw, with the aim of bluffing on later streets.
The float tactic is difficult to play when you are out of position, so it is generally used when you are in position.
It is an effective play against opponents who have a high CB rate on the flop and a low double-barrel rate on the turn.
Let’s look at an example of a float.
●BTN calls CO’s open raise with , and
on the HU flop
it is , calling CO’s CB.
In this case, the BTN has no pair or strong draws, but they have two overcards, a straight, a flush, and backdoor draws, plus position.
You might not think you have much equity, but on a dry board like this, your opponent is likely to make a mistake, so you can call, knowing that you can use your position to bluff on later streets.
The turn was , and BTN bet in response to CO’s check, and CO folded.
On the turn, the lag slowed and the CO checked.
The board situation remained almost unchanged as the CO checked, making a strong hand like top pair + less likely.
The BTN’s hand hasn’t improved either, but top pair + is a reasonable possibility in the BTN’s flop calling range, so seeing the CO check, the BTN can bet here and aim to steal the pot.
The CO folds and the BTN wins the pot.
This is an example of the most basic float tactic.
◆Conditions suitable for float◆
Conditions suitable for floats include:
●Being a HU
●Having position
●High opponent CB rate
●Low opponent double barrel rate
●Having backup hand equity
On the other hand, floating is not effective against players who only cough up strong hands or players who are passive and like to go to showdown.
◆Hands suitable for floats◆
Now let’s think about choosing a hand that’s suitable for a float.
The key points here are overcards and backdoor draws . For example, in the flop
example above , if you get a pair, it’s a strong top pair, if a spade falls it’s a flush draw, and if A, T, or 9 falls it’s a straight draw. You can attack with a draw on the turn, and there’s also the possibility of completing your draw on the river, so your options for play are broader. And high cards have some showdown value. Having or not having these backups can make a big difference in your equity and ease of play.
◆Flops suitable for floats◆
When floating, it is important to consider the balance between your hand and the board, but the board texture on the flop is also an important factor.
Dry board
On a dry board like this, it’s better to float because the chances of your opponent hitting something are lower.
When you float, it’s easier to claim top pair or pocket pair.
Semi-wet board
On an A high board, it is easier for the opponent to corner, and if a card that completes a draw falls on the turn, you can put strong pressure on them, so it is a board texture that is suitable for floating.
If you can use floats effectively, your flop fold rate will be lower against your opponent’s CB, making it more difficult for them to CB.
This will make it easier to understand your opponent’s hand range, and you will be able to get free cards and attack with bets, broadening your play options.
Figure out your opponent’s play style and board texture, and make use of float tactics.