Abstract: Disclosed herein is a baitholding device having a design which simulates a bait predator. The baitholder comprises a pair of complementary clasps, each of said clasps having an interior portion and an exterior portion. Each clasp further having an arcuate portion comprising a plurality of elongated bait engaging members having a plurality of raised cleats along an inner surface of each elongated bait engaging member for surrounding and holding bait without impaling said bait. The clasps also have a handle portion extending from each arcuate portion. Complementary hinge member portions extend from the interior portion of each clasp. Each hinge member portion has an aperture therein. The baitholding device further comprises a biasing member aligned along said hinge member portions and between the interior portion of each clasp. The biasing member urging the handle portions to diverge and urging the arcuate portions to converge.