Master the Hop Bet in Craps: How to Play, Odds & Strategies
Craps is already one of the most thrilling casino dice games, but if you want to spice things up even more, the Hop Bet is your go-to wager. This high-risk, high-reward bet adds an extra layer of excitement by letting you predict the exact dice combination on the very next roll.
Whether you’re a seasoned player seeking new thrills or a newbie curious about the ropes, this guide breaks down everything you need to know about Hop Bets in craps.
What Is a Hop Bet?
A Hop Bet is a single-roll wager placed on a specific combination of dice appearing on the very next throw. Unlike traditional craps bets that focus on the total sum of the dice, Hop Bets let you bet on precise pairs like 4-1 (a soft 5), or doubles like 4-4 (hard 8).
Think of it as betting on a mini-mystery outcome with big payouts — but be warned, the risk is high!
How Do Hop Bets Work?
Easy (Soft) Hop Bets
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Bet on two different numbers, like 4-1 or 3-2.
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You win if the dice show either order (e.g., 4-1 or 1-4).
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Pays 15 to 1, but the actual odds of rolling that combination are roughly 17 to 1.
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House edge: 11.11%.
Hard Hop Bets
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Bet on doubles, like 4-4 or 3-3.
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Pays 30 to 1, which is higher than hardway bets (9 to 1 for hard 8).
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House edge: 13.89% — higher than easy hops.
Complex Hop Bets
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Bet on more unusual combinations with even bigger payouts (e.g., 5-3).
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Payouts can be as high as 35 to 1.
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House edge: roughly 13.89%.
How to Place a Hop Bet
Hop Bets are unique because they’re not shown on the craps table layout — they’re often called “hidden bets.”
To place one:
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Verbally tell the dealer your bet (e.g., “5-4 on the hop” or “10 on the hop”).
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Put your chips on the table.
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Your bet applies only to the next roll — if you win, you’re paid immediately; if you lose, the bet is collected.
You can place Hop Bets anytime before the shooter throws the dice, except before the come-out roll, where they’re rarely made.
What Are the Odds and House Edge?
| Bet Type | True Odds | Payout | House Edge |
|---|---|---|---|
| Easy (Soft) Hop | 17 to 1 | 15 to 1 | 11.11% |
| Hard Hop | 35 to 1 | 30 to 1 | 13.89% |
| Totals Hop | Varies | Varies (14-30:1) | Up to 16.67% |
Because Hop Bets pay slightly less than the true odds, the house has a significant advantage.
Should You Use Hop Bets?
Hop Bets are exciting and fast-paced because they resolve in a single roll. But the odds are stacked against you:
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Soft hops offer a slightly better chance but still come with a high house edge.
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Hard hops may have tempting payouts but a worse house edge than even soft hops.
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For better long-term odds, stick to bets like Pass Line, Come, Don’t Pass, or Don’t Come.
In summary:
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Hop Bets are for players who want thrills and aren’t afraid to take risks.
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They add variety and the chance of big, quick payouts.
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But if your goal is steady winning, it’s best to avoid them.
Final Thoughts
If you love the rush of craps and want to add some excitement to your game, Hop Bets are definitely worth trying out. Just remember they’re high risk with a high house edge. Make sure you manage your bankroll wisely, and don’t rely on Hop Bets as your primary strategy.
Ready to take your craps game to the next level? Place a Hop Bet — and may the dice roll in your favor!
