Jack of Diamonds Partner
The alternative partner method where J♦ holder is automatically the partner
Quick Summary
In the Jack of Diamonds variant, whoever holds the J♦ is automatically the picker's partner. Unlike Called Ace, the picker doesn't choose - the partner is determined by the cards dealt.
How Jack of Diamonds Partner Works
Automatic Partnership
When someone picks up the blind, the player holding the Jack of Diamonds (J♦) becomes their partner automatically.
No Announcement
The picker doesn't call anything. Partnership remains secret until the J♦ is played.
Play When Able
Unlike Called Ace rules, the partner can play the J♦ anytime trump is led or legal. No forced reveal.
What If Picker Has the Jack of Diamonds?
If the picker ends up with the J♦ (either dealt or from the blind), there are several common house rules:
Option 1: Go Alone (Most Common)
Picker must play 1 vs 4 with no partner. Higher risk, higher reward.
Option 2: Call Up
Picker can "call up" to the next highest Jack they don't have (J♥, J♠, or J♣).
Option 3: Unknown Partner
Some groups play that the J♥ holder becomes partner instead.
Jack of Diamonds vs Called Ace
| Aspect | Jack of Diamonds | Called Ace |
|---|---|---|
| Partner chosen by | Random (cards dealt) | Picker's choice |
| Picker control | None | Full control |
| Partner reveal | When J♦ played | When called Ace played |
| Forced reveal | No - play J♦ anytime | Yes - must play Ace when suit led |
| Partner secrecy | Longer (more control) | Shorter (forced plays) |
| Strategy depth | Less (random element) | More (calculated choice) |
| Popular in | Door County, rural WI | Milwaukee, Madison |
Jack of Diamonds Strategy Tips
- ✓As Partner: Hide your identity longer
Since you're not forced to play the J♦ on any specific trick, you can stay hidden and help the picker subtly before revealing.
- ✓As Picker: Watch for helpful play
Look for players who seem to be helping you - they might be your partner. Schmearing and favorable plays are tells.
- ✓As Defender: Track the J♦
Once J♦ is played, teams are known. Until then, be cautious about who you schmear to.
- !J♦ is valuable - don't waste it
The J♦ is the 8th highest trump. Don't throw it away early just to reveal yourself - use it strategically to win tricks.
Regional Popularity
The Jack of Diamonds variant is popular in Door County, Sturgeon Bay, and many rural Wisconsin communities.
As one player put it: "Milwaukee Sheepshead, you call an ace for a partner. A lot of places around the state, you play jack of diamonds is the partner."
Neither method is "correct" - they're regional traditions. Always ask about house rules before playing!
Pros and Cons
Advantages
- • Simpler - no calling decision
- • Partner can stay hidden longer
- • More suspense about teams
- • Faster gameplay (no call phase)
- • Random element adds variety
Disadvantages
- • Less strategic depth
- • Picker has no control over partner
- • Can get unlucky pairings
- • Partner might have weak hand
- • Going alone more common