As water temperatures rise, an insect lure becomes an extremely effective choice for targeting predatory fish feeding naturally on larvae, insects and other small prey. With the Larva and Perla, Delalande offers two floating soft baits specifically designed to accurately imitate these summertime food sources.

Available in two sizes as well as pre-rigged versions, these insect lures provide numerous rigging possibilities. Personally, I prefer the unrigged models, allowing me to adapt my presentation according to the fishing spot and current conditions.

Discover our complete range of Delalande soft lures to complete your tackle box.

Three Ways to Rig an Insect Lure

Over the course of many fishing trips, three rigs have consistently proven to be the most effective with the Larva and Perla:

• Light jig head
• Drop shot
• Split-shot

Each presentation offers unique advantages and fully takes advantage of the buoyancy and realism of these lures.

Insect Lure on a Light Jig Head

I mainly use Delalande Macadam jig heads, most often in 1 gram. This lightweight setup provides a slow, natural fall, allowing the lure to display its full action.

Once it reaches the bottom, the floating material makes all the difference. The insect lure naturally stands upright, maintaining a highly realistic posture that regularly triggers perch strikes.

I’m convinced trout will also respond extremely well to this presentation, although I haven’t yet had the opportunity to fully test it due to seasonal fishing closures.

Larva and Perla pair perfectly with Delalande jig heads.

Fishing an Insect Lure with a Drop Shot Rig

The drop shot rig perfectly highlights the natural qualities of this insect lure. The goal is to keep the lure suspended just above the bottom while imparting subtle rod-tip vibrations.

Thanks to their buoyancy, the Larva and Perla remain in constant motion without requiring aggressive rod movements. Their natural profile quickly convinces fish, and bites often occur after only a few seconds.

Fish usually inhale the lure deeply, resulting in excellent hook-up ratios.

Fishing an Insect Lure with a Split-Shot Rig

Since the beginning of summer, this has been my favorite setup. It simply consists of a sliding tungsten bead positioned above a single hook.

Depending on depth and wind conditions, I use tungsten weights ranging from 1 to 3 grams. The retrieve is slow, alternating short lifts followed by immediate slack.

Each lift causes the lure to rise from the bottom. During the fall, the tungsten weight drops quickly while the lure sinks much more slowly. This behavior closely resembles a free rig and regularly provokes strikes.

Once back on the bottom, this insect lure remains perfectly upright thanks to its buoyant material. This natural presentation often proves decisive when fish are cautious.

Fishing an Insect Lure on the Surface

Larva and Perla can also be rigged on a simple hook for surface fishing. This subtle presentation perfectly imitates an insect that has fallen into the water or a small prey item moving just beneath the surface film.

Why Choose a Delalande Insect Lure?

Since the beginning of summer, Larva and Perla have become regular companions during my fishing sessions. I particularly appreciate their buoyancy, realism and versatility, making it easy to adapt to different fishing conditions.

Whether rigged on a light jig head, a drop shot or a split-shot setup, this insect lure delivers an exceptionally natural presentation and consistently triggers perch strikes. Its effectiveness and ease of use make it an excellent choice for summer fishing.

If you’re looking for a discreet, versatile and highly effective insect lure for perch during the warmer months, Larva and Perla definitely deserve a place in your tackle box.

Fred LeBaron