What is a probe bet in poker?
A probe bet is a bet out of position on the turn after the preflop raiser checked back the flop. Their check often means they missed or have a medium hand they want to keep small, so you take the lead and try to win the pot.
Example
Section titled “Example”The cutoff raises, you call in the big blind. The flop is K♦ 7♠ 3♣. You check, the cutoff checks back. The turn is the 5♥. You bet about half the pot. The cutoff often folds hands like Q-J or A-10 that gave up on the flop.
Why it works
Section titled “Why it works”- Most players c-bet their strong hands and good draws on the flop. A check back usually shows a weaker range. See continuation bet.
- You get to win the pot before they can take a free river.
- Value hands that checked the flop (like a weak top pair) get paid by worse.
Which hands to probe with
Section titled “Which hands to probe with”- Medium made hands that want a call from worse: second pair, weak top pair.
- Draws and hands with overcards: they can win now or improve. See semi-bluff.
- Strong hands you checked to the raiser on the flop.
Sizing
Section titled “Sizing”About 1/2 to 2/3 of the pot. Smaller sizes work against players who fold easily.
- Some players check back strong hands to trap. Watch your opponents. See player types.
- Out of position, a raise puts you in a tough spot.
Related: donk bet (leading on the flop) and delayed c-bet (the raiser’s version).
What is a probe bet?
Section titled “What is a probe bet?”A bet out of position on the turn after the preflop raiser checked back the flop.
Why does a probe bet work?
Section titled “Why does a probe bet work?”The raiser’s check back on the flop often shows a weaker range.
How big should a probe bet be?
Section titled “How big should a probe bet be?”About half to two-thirds of the pot.
Is a probe bet the same as a donk bet?
Section titled “Is a probe bet the same as a donk bet?”No. A donk bet leads into the raiser on the flop; a probe bet comes on the turn after the raiser checked.