A specimen retrieval system includes a bag having a flexible basket with an opening configured for receiving a tissue specimen, an elongate tail extending from the flexible basket, a primary loop attached to a proximal end of the tail opposite the flexible basket, and a string encircling the flexible basket and extending therefrom along the tail and terminating exterior of the proximal end of the tail, the string being operable to close the opening of the flexible basket. The system also includes an outer cannula having a distal end and a proximal end with a cannula handle located at the proximal end of the outer cannula, the outer cannula configured to receive the bag therein via the distal end of the outer cannula, with the tail of the bag, the primary loop and a portion of the string extending out of the proximal end of the outer cannula. The system also includes an interior tube having a distal end slidably positionable within the outer cannula via the proximal end of the outer cannula, the interior tube having a tube handle mounted to a proximal end of the interior tube at a location exterior of the cannula handle, the tube handle including a hook rotatably mounted thereon and configured for engaging the primary loop of the bag when rotated to a first position and configured for disengaging from the primary loop when rotated to a second position, and a spring secured within the distal end of the interior tube and extending outwardly of the distal end of the interior tube, the spring connectable to the opening of the basket of the bag.