get (one's) bait back

To make nearly enough money to offset what one has spent on some endeavor. Primarily heard in US. When you first start a business, it takes a while before you get your bait back, unfortunately. I know what you spent on this trip to Vegas. Do you honestly think you're going to get your bait back at the slot machines? I know we're not going to make a ton of sales today. Really, I just hope to get my bait back in terms of supplies.

get your bait back

Just about recoup your expenditure. An old New England fisherman's expression for barely making expenses. Some who caught just enough fish to sell to compensate for the day's expenses was said to have gotten his bait back.