Abstract: An open eye awl is used to thread a fishing line leader and straight shank portion of the hook into the bait instead of inserting the barbed point end of the fishing hook at the risk of damaging the bait. This reverse insertion of the hook further minimizes exposed portions of the hook and reliably secures the bait to the fishing line and fishing hook. The leader can be easily installed and removed from the open eye awl before and after insertion even using slippery bait. After baiting, the leader is attached to the fishing line in a conventional manner using a snap clip and loop assembly. The device and method are especially suited for frozen bait. The awl is shaped to create the convenient channel through the bait for the leader and hook shank without apparent deformation, and with minimal holding of the bait.