Abstract: A live well for live bait is provided with a bait retrieval assembly of readily available structural components which are combined in an unexpectedly useful manner to allow all operations to be carried out using one hand only. The live well, which is typically closed with a substantially rigid cover, may be of arbitrary cross-section but is typically either cylindrical or rectangular, and in each case, tapered. The retrieval assembly includes a telescopable support member comprising plural telescopable cylinders; the innermost cylinder is capped and provided with a fastening means for a colander which is reciprocable on the support member. An electrically actuated fluid control system comprising a feed pump and valves pumps water into the support member and pressurizes it sufficiently to raise the innermost cylinder and the colander when a bait is to be selected. Flow of water to the support member is cut off when the colander is to be lowered into the well.