Fishbein

This convention was devised by Mr. Harry Fishbein. He became tired of the popularity of the Preempts and attempted to find a good defense. Studying the following example will help in understanding the logic of Mr. Harry Fishbein.

Opener's hand - 3

Mr. Harry Fishbein A AQJ5 AK9876 54

The concept of the Fishbein Convention allows the player directly behind, and this is important to remember, the Preemptive Opener to make a Penalty Double. The Double is not a Takeout Double and the partner must pass this Double.

The concept of the Fishbein Convention does not allow the Preempt to be followed by Two Passes, and then a Double. Therefore, the Auction 3 - Pass - Pass - Double is not allowed. Only the player sitting directly after the Preemptive Opener may double. If the opponent in the Pass Out Seat is holding enough values to make a Penalty Double, he may not bid. This would, of course, be aggravating, because it is definitely a disadvantage of the Fishbein Convention.

In all fairness to Mr. Harry Fishbein, the concept carries with it a unilateral decision by one partner of the partnership. The other partner has no choice in the matter, and many bridge players consider this a major flaw. The Fishbein Convention also precludes the natural use of an overcall, which is also considered a major drawback.

Whether it was indeed Mr. Harry Fishbein or other bridge players, who revised and altered the Fishbein Convention, is really not important. Important is that the concept was changed to fit the needs of the bridge players. The following illustration will help in understanding the changes made to the Fishbein Convention.

Openers hand - 3

Mr. Harry Fishbein AQJ5 5 AK97 Q1064

The 3 bid of Mr. Harry Fishbein does not show a long Spade Suit. Using the Fishbein Convention, this bid in the cheapest, next available suit is a conventional bid, and replaces the Takeout Double.

Another example would be: North: 3 - East: 4 would be a Takeout Double over the Preemptive Opening.

This inclusion of this rather unique Takeout Double would show a minimum of 16HCP and a Three-Suited Hand, or possibly even a Two-Suited Hand. This Takeout Double is unconditionally forcing and the partner may not pass.

It must be repeated that the concept of the Fishbein Convention does not apply in the Pass Out Seat. Any auction such as 3 - Pass - Pass - 3 indicates a natural bid. This bid is not forcing and partner may pass.

The Fishbein Convention was devised as a defense against Preemptive Openings. A Weak Two Bid is a Preemptive Opening, and the Fishbein Convention can also be applied immediately after a Weak Two Bid, but again this becomes a unilateral decision by one player, although the unique Takeout Double still applies.

If you wish to make the Fishbein Convention a part of your Partnership Agreement, please remember the disadvantages the concept carries with it. If a positive decision to use this convention is made, please make it part of your written Partnership Agreement. Also, it must be made known to your opponents by entering or checking it on the Convention Chart, and do not forget to Alert your opponents.