A bait bridle is uniquely designed to connect a hook to bait while allowing the entire hook to be exposed for enhanced hooking capabilities and free movement of the bait. The addition of a small elastic band to the hook end of the bridle holds the hook firmly in place, yet allows easy removal when desired. The re-usable bridle system of the present invention can be switched from one hook to another hook with no damage to bait or the bridle. The bridle system of the present invention allows for free movement of the bait and full exposure of the hook. The bait bridle can be easily opened and closed to placement or removal of bait with the bridle on or off the hook.