Abstract: A quick set fishing rig and fish hook for live bait is disclosed. The hook includes a main portion, at least one hook portion, and a shank for releasably anchoring the hook into the body of the live bait. The shank extends substantially straight out from the main body portion of the hook and preferably has at least one stabilizing fin provided thereon. The shank is inserted under the skin of the live bait, thus anchoring the hook portions on the live bait. The stabilizing fins of the shank prevent the hook from rotating about the shank axis while in use, and assists the hook to quickly release from the bait when a fisherman or woman sets the hook. The hook is preferably used in connection with a rig providing for the adjustability of the length between a front single hook of the rig and the hook of the present invention.

Abstract: A molded plastic keeper having an elongated stem and from which a series of 3-dimensional projections radiate. The projections can exhibit different shapes and offsets from the stem. In various constructions, a keeper with conical ribs is molded to the shank of a bare or wire at a jig or lure to support live bait or an artificial dressing. In another construction, the keeper is molded over a wire core that can be formed and mounted to a hook eye or cast into the body of a lure. In another construction, a hollow bore extends through the keeper and permits a threaded fitting over a fish line. A longitudinal slot can be included at a hollow bore keeper and/or the keeper can be constructed of a material that shrinks. A buoyant, weighted and/or hollow headpiece having a longitudinal bore can cooperate with the keeper and may support a rattle.