Abstract: A novel apparatus for semi-automatically baiting the hooks of long-line used in commercial deep sea fishing. The apparatus includes a bait holding receptacle, a slotted separator positioned in or in association with the receptacle and extending from substantially end to end thereof, whereby ground-line with leader periodically attached to the ground-line is passed behind the separator such that a gangion portion of the leader extends through the slot in the separator and the hook of the leader secures itself to a piece of bait held in the bait holding receptacle.