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Thater: Novices bluff too much

Katja Thater, Germany's leading female poker player, claims the biggest mistake most novices make is bluffing too much.

The professional, who won her first Worlds Series of Poker (WSOP) bracelet last year in a $1,500 buy-in Razz event, told DPA over-reliance on trying to fake out opponents is one of the most common characteristics of a beginner.

"Believing that bluffing is the most important thing [is the most common mistake]," she explained.

"And it is a mistake to be a beginner at the game no-limit hold'em. Beyond that, you should not underestimate your opponent."

Thater added that in order to become a top player, rookies must learn to be patient and aggressive - and should be prepared to lose.

She also said studying poker theory is a must, particularly when it comes to playing games that last a long time.

As well as her WSOP title, Thater has also made a European Poker Tour final table.