CO Probe Bet

Overview

A CO Probe Bet is a specific type of probe bet executed from the cutoff (CO) position. In poker, a probe bet is a bet made on the flop or turn by a player who called a preflop raise but did not re-raise, typically when the preflop raiser has checked to them. The cutoff, being in late position relative to the blinds and early positions, is well-suited for such a move because it can apply pressure on the preflop aggressor while still having players behind (the button and blinds) to act.

When to Use a CO Probe Bet

• When the preflop raiser checks on the flop: This suggests they may have missed the flop or have a marginal hand. A probe bet can often win the pot immediately.
• When you have a hand with decent equity: For example, a flush draw or two overcards. Even if called, you can improve on later streets.
• When the board texture is draw-heavy or coordinated: A bet can represent a made hand and force folds from weak holdings.
• When you have position on the preflop raiser: The cutoff is in position against most players except the button, so you can control the pot size and see a free card if needed.

Considerations

• Stack sizes: Effective stack depth influences the risk. A probe bet typically sizes around 1/3 to 1/2 pot to minimize risk while still being effective.
• Opponent tendencies: Against tight players who fold to flop bets often, probe bets are more profitable. Against calling stations, use them only with strong draws or made hands.
• Board texture: Dry boards (e.g., K-7-2 rainbow) are ideal for probe bets because the preflop raiser's range is less likely to connect. Wet boards (e.g., 9-8-6 two-suited) may hit their range more often.
• Your own range: If your preflop calling range contains many suited connectors and small pairs, you can represent flops that connect with those hands.

Example

Suppose you are in the cutoff with 9♠8♠ and call a raise from the under-the-gun (UTG) player. The flop comes Q♥7♣5♦. UTG checks. You can make a probe bet of about half pot. UTG likely missed this flop with hands like AK, AJ, or small pairs, and may fold. If UTG calls or raises, you can reassess on the turn.

Related Terms

• Probe Bet: A bet made by the non-aggressor preflop to test the strength of the preflop raiser.
• Continuation Bet (C-Bet): A bet made by the preflop aggressor on the flop.
• Float: Calling a bet with the intention of bluffing on a later street.
• Position: The ability to act after opponents, providing informational advantage.