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Spring’s doing its best impression of summer out here on the Dream Stream, but the trout haven’t been fooled. Flows have dropped slightly, and clarity is back to that textbook gin-clear we love (and sometimes curse). Sight fishing is the name of the game right now, with spooky trout cruising the shallows—so bring your A-game and a long leader.
Afternoons are heating up fast, both in temperature and fishing pressure. The big rainbows are wrapping up their spawn, but you’ll still spot a few stragglers paired up or guarding beds. Be respectful, avoid actively spawning fish, and focus on the deep slots and tailouts where post-spawn trout are recovering and feeding hard.
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Conditions Summary
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The Dream Stream is running clear and low with excellent sight fishing opportunities, especially in the morning before winds kick up.
- Flow Rate: 95 CFS
- Water Temp: 44–48°F
- Air Temp: 60–75°F
- Clarity: Clear
- Best Times to Fish: 9:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. before afternoon winds
Dream Stream Hatch Chart
| Month | Hatches |
|---|---|
| March | Midges, Baetis (BWO) |
| April | Midges, Baetis, Caddis |
| May | Midges, Baetis, Caddis, PMDs starting |
- Dry Fly: Parachute BWO (#18–20) – Fish to rising trout midday, especially on calm afternoons.
- Nymph: Tungsten Rainbow Warrior (#18) – Great attractor under an indicator or Euro rig in deep pools.
- Streamer: Mini Dungeon (white or olive, #6) – Strip low and slow in deeper runs targeting post-spawn browns.
Tips Fly Fishing on the Dream Stream
- Seasonal Tip: Stay low and approach cautiously—these trout see everything.
- Dry Fly Tip: Focus on slow-moving tailouts where fish sip BWOs.
- Nymphing Tip: Add split shot to reach fish holding deep below gravel bars.
- Streamer Tip: Target undercut banks and soft edges early or late when light’s low.
Access Points
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- Upper Parking Lot (below Spinney): Easy walk to productive riffles and pools. Good morning spot before crowds.
- “The Bend” (mid-river): Known for deeper slots and holding post-spawn fish. Bring a long net for high banks.
- Bridge Access (near old cabin): Undercut banks and tight casting lanes—great streamer water.
- Tailwater Flats (near Eleven Mile inlet): Technical sight fishing to spooky trout in shallow flats.
Local Regulations and Notes on Landowner Rights
The Dream Stream is entirely public between Spinney and Eleven Mile. Artificial flies and lures only. Please avoid fishing to actively spawning fish (on redds). Pack out all trash and respect fellow anglers.
FAQ on this Spot
- When’s the best time of year to fish the Dream Stream?
Fall (October–November) and Spring (March–April) during spawning runs are peak times. - Is the Dream Stream good for beginners?
It’s challenging but rewarding—hire a guide if you’re new to technical tailwaters. - Can I fish the Dream Stream in the afternoon?
Yes, but expect stronger winds and spooky trout. Mornings are typically more productive.
