A hook setting fishing pole holder holds and secures a fishing pole to allow for unattended fishing includes a base having a pointed stake and a bracket that pivotably holds a fishing pole holder connected by an axle mechanism. The bracket is held between a pair of bracket flanges and the pole holder is secured in a ready position by a retaining clip. The axle mechanism allows the rod to be balanced and to slightly bob up and down as a line and bait are taken by a fish. The force of a fish strike and subsequent movement disengages the pole holder from the clip allowing the fishing pole to pivot forward. The forward motion is immediately limited by a stop feature which sets the hook.
