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The Dream Stream sits high in South Park near Fairplay, and winter strips this stretch of the South Platte down to its most honest form. Low, clear meadow flows, constant wind exposure, and trout that have seen everything reward anglers who slow down, stay patient, and fish with intent. This is not easy fishing, but it is some of the most satisfying fly fishing in South Park when conditions line up.
Updated: December 16, 2025
The South Platte River at the Dream Stream is holding in a classic winter meadow pattern. Flows remain low and stable, water clarity is exceptional, and trout are positioned deep in long winter troughs and slow inside bends. Feeding windows are short but predictable, centered almost entirely around late morning to early afternoon when sunlight briefly warms the flats.
This week’s Dream Stream fly fishing report emphasizes precision over persistence. Midges dominate the food supply, and trout feed selectively and efficiently. Long leaders, minimal weight, and realistic expectations matter more here than anywhere else on the South Platte.
Listen to the Audio Overview
Conditions Summary
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Flow: Low and stable winter meadow flow
Water Temperature: Low to mid 30s
Air Temperature: High 20s to upper 30s with strong wind exposure
Clarity: Ultra clear
Crowds: Light in winter, heavier on calm weekends
Best Window: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Fishing Type Focus: Technical winter nymphing with long leaders and subtle drifts
Weather
Littleton Weather
Expect cold mornings, steady wind, and brief midday warming when the sun breaks through. Wind is often the limiting factor here. Calm days create the best fishing windows. Cloud cover without wind can also extend feeding activity.
Top Flies in Your Box This Week
- Black Beauty 20 to 24
- Zebra Midge (black or red) 20 to 22
- RS2 (black or gray) 20 to 22
- WD-40 20 to 22
- Mercury Midge 20 to 22
Pro Rig of the Week: Waterton Quiet-Feet Midge Rig
- Indicator: Small yarn or minimal pinch-on indicator
- Lead Fly: RS2 20
- Dropper: Black Beauty or Zebra Midge 22
- Weight: One micro split shot placed far above the flies
- Target Water: Deep winter troughs, slow inside bends, and tailouts
Hatch Chart for December
| Bug Type | Size | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Midges | 20 to 26 | Primary winter food source |
| Baetis nymphs | 20 to 22 | Rare winter activity on mild afternoons |
Download the South Platte Hatch Chart
Access Points
Charlie Meyers SWA – Upper Parking Area
Easy access to excellent winter holding water; deeper bends and mid-channel cuts.
⭐ 5.0
Bridges Area
Classic Dream Stream troughs and soft edges with the least foot traffic.
⭐ 4.7
Lower Meadows
Wind-exposed but exceptional sight-nymphing during bright midday hours.
⭐ 4.4
Cattle Guard Stretch
Consistent winter bucket water and subtle depth transitions.
⭐ 4.6
Downstream Fence Line
Low flows make stealth essential; great micro-structure.
⭐ 4.3
Stop Here After The River
Highline Cafe and Saloon, Hartsel
A true South Park stop. Ranch hands, locals, tired anglers, strong coffee, and the kind of green chile you swear you’ve had before but never quite this good. Order the buffalo burger or the chicken fried steak and shake off the wind before heading home.
Local Regulations & Notes
- Artificial flies only
- Watch for redds in shallow gravel zones
- Ice shelves can form overnight near undercut banks
- Afternoons offer the only consistent fish movement
Is the Dream Stream Good for Fly Fishing Right Now?
Yes, when conditions cooperate. Calm, sunny days produce short but meaningful feeding windows, especially late morning. Windy days can shut the river down almost completely.
How Far Is the Dream Stream from Fairplay?
The Dream Stream is approximately 12 miles north of Fairplay, making it one of the most accessible and well-known stretches of fly fishing in South Park.
FAQ
Q: Why is the Dream Stream so technical in winter?
A: Ultra-clear water, low flows, and constant pressure force trout to feed selectively and move very little.
Q: Is it harder than Deckers in winter?
A: Yes. The Dream Stream demands longer leaders, lighter weight, and more patience.
Q: Are dry flies ever an option right now?
A: Rarely. Subsurface midge patterns dominate winter success.
Q: What tippet works best?
A: 6X is standard, with 5X occasionally used for the lead fly.
Q: When does the bite shut down?
A: Typically early afternoon once wind increases or sunlight fades.
Companion Article for December
Photo of the Month
Credit: Colorado Trout Hunters
Book Colorado Trout Hunters for Private Waters and Top access along the South Platte
