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The Fishin Pole


  • 3 years ago · Quote · #1

    H2oh

    Anyone ever play against this line? Comes from the Berlin Def of the Ruy Lopez.  1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 Nc6 3. Bb5 Nf6 4. 0-0 Ng4. What is everyones thoughts

  • 3 years ago · Quote · #2

    Trentski

    Well, it looks like a promising opening for either side.  Black has good development of the knights, and White has castled, and is also in good position.  I know, not the deepest of thoughts, but I haven't studied openings enough to really say which would be strongest for a multitude of games or whatever.

  • 3 years ago · Quote · #3

    RyanMK

    I think it looks like an awful move for black, wasting a tempo when he could be doing much more productive things.

  • 3 years ago · Quote · #4

    kenmack

    Is there a point to Ng4?

  • 3 years ago · Quote · #5

    SilentThunderStorm

    Well, personally, not being (by far) a master... I must admit to having used that type of attack with the knight for no other purpose than simply ripping open white 'well defended' king.  Granted, there isn't much other real development here, and throwing a piece away this early in the game is often grimaced at... but having white's king uncomfortable this early in isnt that bad a plan, and can often be worth a minor piece.... as long as you have the goods to back it up.

  • 3 years ago · Quote · #6

    LokiMundane

    I agree with silent thunder. And this could start a whole new topic but I find that breaking down a castled defense with a minor piece sacrifice or even forcing the king to capture a minor piece to keep it from casteling is very effective against most players.

    The game analysis heavily frowns apawn it though, often calling it ?? when I'd rather see !?

  • 3 years ago · Quote · #7

    H2oh

    The point behind 4...Ng4 is to create counter play. Most will play 5. h3 and black responds with h5.

  • 3 years ago · Quote · #8

    CarlMI

    This line is regularly discussed in http://games.groups.yahoo.com/group/Chess_Improvement  with many examples being given by Master Brian Wall who loves the line.  That said it is generally accepted as a good blitz line but black will die in normal time controls.  Here is a game by Wall with his notes.  Enjoy:

  • 3 years ago · Quote · #9

    Hebrews13-8

    Wow. I must admit, I was skeptical to the fishing pole when I read about it in the Unorthodox Opening Newsletter, but now I see where it can shine. Just like any opening, it needs the right atmosphere, but what an interesting game! Thanks for posting it Carl!


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