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The Dream Stream, located between Spinney Mountain and Eleven Mile Reservoirs, remains one of Colorado’s most iconic tailwaters. With its gin-clear water, technical fish, and breathtaking valley views, it’s the proving ground for sight fishing and stealthy presentations.
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The Dream Stream—that legendary stretch of the South Platte River between Spinney and Eleven Mile Reservoirs—is putting on a show this week. With flows hovering around 95 CFS, this tailwater is in peak form for anglers chasing trophy trout in technical water.
Trout are holding in deep tailouts, tight to gravel bars, and tucked behind structure. Fish are feeding selectively on midges and BWOs, with some early caddis popping in the afternoon warmth.
Conditions Summary
- Flow Rate: 95 CFS (steady)
- Water Temperature: 44–48°F
- Clarity: Clear
- Crowds: Moderate to High
- Weather: Calm mornings, breezy afternoons
- Best Time to Fish: 9:30 AM – 1:30 PM
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Conditions Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
Top Flies for Dream Stream in June
- Parachute BWO (#18–20) – Great for mid-morning risers.
- Tungsten Rainbow Warrior (#18) – Deadly in deeper slots.
- Mini Dungeon (olive/black) – Early morning streamer bite.
- Black Beauty (#22–24) – For subtle feeders along the seams.
- Sparkle Wing RS2 (#20) – Match the drift during BWO hatches.
- Egg Pattern (#14) – Still pulling takes in cold seams.
- Top Secret Midge (#24) – Especially in calm tailouts.
Tips for Fishing the Dream Stream This Week
- Focus on mid-morning when wind is low and trout feed with confidence.
- Be stealthy—this water sees pressure. Long leaders and precise drifts are a must.
- Sight fish to cruising browns or post-spawn bows in the slack water.
- Try a dry-dropper rig to cover both the surface and lower column.
- Keep streamers small and natural—slow strips near deep banks.
How the Dream Stream Stacks Up
Compared to Deckers on the South Platte, the Dream Stream offers clearer water, fewer crowds, and better sight-fishing opportunities. If you’re torn between Waterton Canyon, Cheesman Canyon, or heading further up to the Arkansas River, the Dream Stream holds its own—especially if you're targeting quality over quantity.
Looking for variety? Check the Deckers Fishing Report, the Spring Hatch Chart for the Front Range, or our full Weekly Fly Fishing Report to compare.
FAQ – Fly Fishing Dream Stream Colorado
Is the Dream Stream open to the public?
Yes, the entire stretch is public water, though access can require walking. Park near the south lot off County Road 59 for closest access to the upper section.
What’s the best time of year to fish the Dream Stream?
Spring (April–June) and fall (September–October) are prime. June offers great water levels and active feeding windows from mid-morning to early afternoon.
What weight rod should I bring to the Dream Stream?
A 4- or 5-weight rod with a long leader (10–12 feet) and 5x–6x tippet is ideal. Bring a streamer rod (6-wt) if you plan to throw articulated flies in the early hours.
Are there good dry fly opportunities in June?
Yes, Blue Winged Olives (BWOs) and midges are hatching, especially on cloudy days. Be ready to switch to dries when fish start looking up after 10 AM.
How does it compare to Deckers or Cheesman?
The Dream Stream is more technical and clear, with bigger fish but fewer overall numbers. If you’re looking for a challenge, this is your sp
