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June 16 2026
The Dream Stream is fishing better than many anglers expected for June.
While much of Colorado is dealing with heavy runoff, one of the biggest stories on the South Platte is the continued drawdown of Antero Reservoir. Increased releases have pushed additional water through the Dream Stream, improving fish distribution, creating new feeding lanes, and opening up more productive holding water throughout the system.
The result is a river that feels more alive than it did this spring.
Fish are no longer stacked exclusively in winter holding water. They're feeding in seams, shelves, current edges, riffles, and transition water throughout the corridor. The trout are still educated. They're still difficult. They're still capable of making you question your life choices.
They're just feeding more often.
Listen to the Podcast
Conditions Summary
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River Conditions
| Category | Status | What It Means |
|---|---|---|
| Flow | Elevated and Stable | Increased releases continue supporting productive conditions |
| Water Temp | 46-56°F | Prime feeding temperatures |
| Air Temp | 65-80°F | Strong afternoon insect activity |
| Clarity | Clear | Long leaders and clean drifts still matter |
| Wind | 10-25 mph | Standard South Park conditions |
| Wading | Moderate | Watch deeper channels and soft banks |
| Crowds | High | One of Colorado's most pressured fisheries |
| Access | Excellent | Public access throughout Charlie Meyers SWA |
| Vibe | Big fish in feeding mode | Better fish distribution than spring |
| Float | None | Walk and wade only |
| Dry Outlook | Medium-High | PMD opportunities increasing daily |
| Streamer | Medium | Productive during wind and cloud cover |
| Nymphing | High | Most consistent producer |
Weather
Pro Rig of the Month
Dream Stream PMD Shelf Rig
- Indicator: Small New Zealand yarn indicator
- Lead Fly: PMD Split Case #18
- Dropper: Foam Wing RS2 #20
- Weight: Single micro shot 10 inches above lead fly
- Spacing: 14 inches between flies
- Leader: 11-13 ft 5X
- Target Water: Transition shelves, feeding seams, current edges, tailouts, and walking-speed runs
Top Flies for the Dream Stream in June
| Priority | Fly | Size | Purpose |
| ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | PMD Split Case | #18 | Primary producer |
| ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Foam Wing RS2 | #20 | Emerger |
| ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Top Secret Midge | #22 | Technical fish |
| ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Mercury PMD | #18 | Hatch match |
| ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Parachute PMD | #16-18 | Dry fly |
| ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Barr's PMD Emerger | #18 | Transition fly |
| ⭐⭐⭐ | Juju Baetis | #18-20 | Backup mayfly |
| ⭐⭐⭐ | Black Beauty | #22 | Pressure fly |
| ⭐⭐ | Balanced Leech | #10 | Trophy fish option |
| ⭐⭐ | Mini Leech | #10-12 | Low-light option |
Dream Stream Summer Shelf Rig
- Indicator: Small New Zealand yarn indicator
- Lead Fly: PMD Split Case #18
- Dropper: Foam Wing RS2 #20
- Weight: Single micro shot 10 inches above lead fly
- Spacing: 14 inches between flies
- Leader: 11-13 foot 5X
- Target Water: Transition shelves, soft seams, feeding lanes, and current edges
Dream Stream Hatch Chart
| Month | Hatch | Size | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| February | Midges | #20–24 | Consistent all day |
| March | Midges, Early BWOs | #18–24 | Midday activity |
| April | BWOs, Midges | #18–22 | Peak midday windows |
How to Fish It
- Start with Top Secret Midge + Juju Baetis under an indicator
- Adjust depth before changing flies
- Rotate in RS2 as your adjustment fly
- Shift to Match the Hatch when fish rise or suspend
- Use Big Eats to cover water or target larger fish
Tips Fly Fishing on the Dream Stream
Seasonal Strategy
Fish are still in late winter patterns with slight spring movement. Focus deep early and adjust upward as temps rise.
Dry Fly
Short windows, but technical. Be ready when it turns on.
Nymphing
Primary method. Depth and drift matter more than fly changes.
Streamer Fishing
Use as a change-up during low light or weather shifts.
Access Points
Charlie Meyers State Wildlife Area | 📍 Locals Rating ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5.0
Classic meadow water with reliable holding fish and consistent structure.
Spinney Bridge Access | 📍 Locals Rating ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5.0
Deep troughs and defined runs that produce throughout the day.
County Road 9 Bridge | 📍 Locals Rating ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4.5
Reliable seams and transition water that fish well midday.
→ Want more access points, maps, and real-time updates?
[Explore the River Whispers Beta App]
Local Regulations and Notes on Landowner Rights
Regulated by Colorado Parks and Wildlife
- Artificial flies and lures only
- Barbless hooks recommended
- Respect all private land boundaries
FAQ on this Spot
Is the Dream Stream fishing good right now?
Yes. Midday fishing is consistent, especially with nymph rigs in deeper water.
What flies should I use on the Dream Stream?
Start with Top Secret Midge, Juju Baetis, and RS2. Adjust depth before switching patterns.
What is the best time of day to fish the Dream Stream?
Late morning through early afternoon when water temps rise slightly.
Where should I fish on the Dream Stream?
Focus on deeper walking-speed water, seams, and transition zones between runs and tailouts.
Is the Dream Stream good for beginners?
Not ideal. Technical presentations and pressured fish make it better suited for experienced anglers.
Do I need a guide for the Dream Stream?
Not required, but a guide can significantly shorten the learning curve and improve success.
Photo of the Month
Credit: Colorado Trout Hunters
Book Colorado Trout Hunters for Private Waters and Top access along the South Platte
