Surprisingly, New Jersey ranks high at producing poker players

I'll be honest, I'm the farthest thing from a gambler. I like to be smart with my money. I hate seeing it get taken away from me by a casino.

I've only ever been to a casino a handful of times in my life, and after losing money the last time I went, I decided that was enough for me.

I like to side with blackjack, too. I'm not much of a poker player. But apparently, New Jerseyans are.

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According to a study done by High 5 Casino New Jersey ranks as the 6th best state at poker.

We have produced 40 professional poker stars here in the Garden State. The top five states at producing professional poker players are Texas, Nevada, Florida, New York and California.

As it compares to those states, I'd say we do well. Texas, Florida, New York and California are all significantly bigger states than us, so it makes sense they may produce more players. And Nevada has Las Vegas, need I say more?

The popularity of poker is at an all-time high in the United States. 50 million Americans regularly play poker.

I've played it with my friends from time to time at someone's house, but I've never played it at a casino. I can confidently say I won't be joining the 50 million other Americans regularly playing poker.

But in being at a casino and winning money before, I can understand how it may be an adrenaline rush for some to hit the tables and play.

The post above reflects the thoughts and observations of New Jersey 101.5's Kyle Clark. Any opinions expressed are his own.

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