Tip #22 - Don't play in games where you can't identify the fish

In poker, your profit comes from your opponents' mistakes. If you can't identify who the weaker players (the "fish") are at your table, you might be the fish. Game selection is one of the most important skills in poker, and being able to identify profitable situations is crucial to long-term success.

Signs that you might be in a tough game:

• Everyone seems to be playing a solid, aggressive style
• Players are discussing strategy using advanced poker terminology
• Most players are multi-tabling and using tracking software
• There's very little loose or passive play
• The same regulars are always at the table

Characteristics of good games to play in:

• Multiple players seeing flops and playing passively
• Players frequently limping or calling pre-flop raises
• Lots of multi-way pots and showdowns
• Players showing down weak hands
• Recreational players chatting and having fun

How to find better games:

• Look for tables with high average pot sizes
• Play during peak recreational hours (evenings and weekends)
• Use table selection tools if available
• Observe tables before joining
• Keep notes on players you've encountered before

Remember that it's not enough to just be a good player - you need to be in games where you have an edge. As the old poker saying goes, "If you can't spot the fish in your first half hour at the table, then you're the fish." Don't let ego keep you in tough games. It's better to be a winner in easier games than a loser in tough ones.