Invented in the 1980s specifically to attract poker players to the main casino floor, Caribbean Stud is a fantastic, fast-paced table game.
This completely eliminates the need to maintain a "poker face" or worry about someone aggressively raising your bets.
The Basic Rules: Ante and Deal
Every round of Caribbean Stud begins with the player placing a mandatory initial wager known as the "Ante" bet.
They must either "Fold" and immediately lose their Ante, or "Call" (also known as "Play") by placing a bet exactly twice the size of their Ante.
The game uses standard five-card poker rankings (e.g., Flush, Full House)Players only compete against the dealer, never against each otherThe initial mandatory bet is called the "Ante"
Why the Dealer Must Qualify
To mathematically qualify, the dealer's five-card hand must contain an Ace and a King, or any higher standard poker combination (like a Pair).
Crucially, if the dealer does not qualify, the player's massive "Call" bet simply pushes (ties) and is returned, regardless of how strong the player's hand was.
How to Win at Caribbean Stud
The golden rule is incredibly simple: Always fold any hand weaker than Ace-King, and always play any hand containing a Pair or better.
Aside from the main game, Caribbean Stud is famous for its optional $1 progressive jackpot side bet.
Player ActionConditionResultFoldAlwaysLose Ante bet immediatelyPlay (Call)Dealer does NOT qualifyWin Ante 1:1, Call bet pushes
Just be prepared for the agonizing frustration of holding a Full House right as the dealer turns over a miserable, non-qualifying Jack-high hand.
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How to Play Caribbean Stud Poker
Vern Carson edited this page 2026-07-29 18:25:04 +02:00