Abstract: A novel bait retainer for fish hooks is disclosed which includes a wire type helix with at least one end of the retainer left open and having a sharp point. The body of the retainer is an elongated cylindrical configuration with a diameter and length which corresponds with the type of bait and size of hook with which the retainer is to be used. The retainer is positioned slidably over the shank of the hook with the open end positioned nearest the curved portion of the hook. In use the bait is inserted over the end of the hook and is moved to the shank portion. The retainer is rotatably threaded through the mass or body of the bait and the retainer and bait is then moved backward around the curved portion of the hook until the bait is properly positioned with respect to the barbed end of the hook. In this way the retainer supports the bait and holds the bait in the proper position to catch fish.