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Draw Hi Lo Poker

Zane | April 6, 2023 | Updated on: February 11th, 2025

Draw Hi Lo IconDraw Hi Lo Poker is an exciting poker variant where players compete for both the highest and lowest hands in the same game. This unique format makes it more strategic than traditional poker, as you can win by having the best high hand, the best low hand, or both!

Whether you’re new to Draw Hi Lo or looking to improve your skills, this guide will explain the rules, strategies, and advanced tactics to help you master the game.

Best Draw Hi Lo

Understanding Draw Hi Lo Poker

Draw Hi Lo is a split-pot poker game, meaning the pot is divided between the best high hand and the best low hand (if one qualifies). This adds an extra layer of strategy, as players must decide whether to aim for the high, the low, or both.

Unlike Texas Hold’em and Omaha, Draw Hi Lo is a draw poker variant, meaning players can exchange some of their cards to improve their hand.

Basic Rules of Draw Hi Lo Poker

Before you start playing Draw Hi Lo Poker, you need to understand the fundamental rules:

  • Initial Deal: Each player receives five private cards.
  • First Betting Round: Players bet based on their initial hand strength.
  • Draw Phase: Players can discard and replace up to five cards to improve their hand.
  • Second Betting Round: After the draw, another round of betting takes place.
  • Showdown: Players reveal their hands.
  • Splitting the Pot: The pot is split between the player with the best high hand and the player with the best low hand (if a qualifying low hand exists).

To better understand poker hand rankings, check out our Poker Hands Guide.

Key Strategies for Draw Hi Lo Poker

Success in Draw Hi Lo Poker requires smart decision-making and a solid strategy. Here are some essential tips to improve your game.

1. Aim for Both the High and Low Hands

The best strategy in Draw Hi Lo is to play hands that have potential for both high and low. This is called playing for the “scoop,” meaning you win the entire pot instead of just half.

Good hands for scooping include:

  • A-2-3-4-5 (the “wheel”) – A strong low hand that can also be a straight.
  • A-2 suited with high cards – Good for flushes and low hands.
  • Pairs with an A-2-3 – Can make a strong high hand while also competing for low.

2. Know the Low Hand Rules

For a low hand to qualify, it must contain five different cards ranked 8 or lower (known as “Eight or Better”). Aces count as low in low hands, so the best possible low hand is A-2-3-4-5.

If no player has a qualifying low hand, the entire pot goes to the best high hand.

3. Play Selectively Before the Draw

Your starting hand in Draw Hi Lo is critical. Avoid playing weak hands that don’t have a good chance of winning either the high or low pot.

Good starting hands include:
✔️ A-2-3-X-X (gives you a strong shot at a low hand and potential for high)
✔️ High pairs (like KK or AA) with low cards (good for both ends)
✔️ Connected cards (like 2-3-4-5) (can make straights and lows)

Weak hands like middle pairs (7-8-9) or random high cards (J-Q-K-10) should be folded unless you’re in a great position.

4. Pay Attention to What Others Discard

Since Draw Hi Lo is a draw poker game, watching your opponents’ discards can give you valuable information:

  • If multiple players are drawing one card, they may be improving a strong hand.
  • If players discard high cards, they are likely going for a low hand.
  • If someone doesn’t draw any cards, they already have a strong hand.

By tracking your opponents’ actions, you can adjust your strategy accordingly.

5. Bluffing and Semi-Bluffing

Bluffing in Draw Hi Lo can be effective, but it’s best used sparingly. A semi-bluff, where you still have a good chance to improve your hand, is a safer strategy.

For example, if you draw two cards but act confidently, opponents may think you already have a strong hand and fold weaker hands.

Draw Hi Lo

Advanced Draw Hi Lo Poker Tactics

1. Adjusting to Opponent Styles

  • Aggressive players tend to play a lot of hands. Wait for a strong hand and trap them.
  • Tight players only play premium hands. Try bluffing against them when they show weakness.

2. Avoid Chasing Bad Draws

A common mistake in Draw Hi Lo is chasing hands that aren’t likely to win. If you need multiple cards to complete a hand, it’s often better to fold.

3. Be Careful With Marginal Hands

If your hand is only good for high or low, be cautious. You might win only half the pot, which may not be worth the risk.

Playing Draw Hi Lo Poker Online

Playing Draw Hi Lo at online poker sites is a great way to practice and improve your skills. Online play offers:

✔️ Faster gameplay – Play more hands and gain experience quickly.
✔️ Lower stakes – Start with small bets before moving to bigger games.
✔️ Poker tracking tools – Analyze your hands and learn from mistakes.

Want to start playing? Check out our list of the best online poker sites for real money Draw Hi Lo games.

Explore More Poker Variants

If you enjoy Draw Hi Lo, you might like these other Poker Variants:

Want to explore more? Read our Poker Variants Guide.

Online Casino Draw Hi Lo

Conclusion

Mastering Draw Hi Lo Poker requires a mix of strategy, patience, and adaptability. By understanding the rules, hand selection, and betting tactics, you can increase your chances of winning and dominate both high and low hands.

Ready to try Draw Hi Lo? The cards are waiting—start playing today!

Draw Hi Lo FAQs

 

 

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