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The Dream Stream is one of the most iconic stretches of the South Platte River, and winter strips it down to its most honest version. Clear water, spooky trout, and wide open flats make this one of the most technical places to fly fish near Denver when temperatures drop. When conditions line up, the rewards are real. When they do not, the river is quick to remind you why it has a reputation.
Updated: December 31, 2025
The Dream Stream is locked into a classic winter tailwater pattern. Cold, ultra clear flows. Slow moving fish holding in deep troughs and soft inside seams. Feeding windows are short and centered around midday warmth when sunlight finally reaches the water and midges begin to move.
This week’s Dream Stream fly fishing report is about restraint and realism. Trout are feeding, but only on small, natural looking bugs delivered at the correct depth. Long leaders, light tippet, and flawless drifts matter here more than anywhere else on the South Platte.
Listen to the Audio Overview
Conditions Summary
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- Flow: Stable winter tailwater flow
- Water Temp: Cold with slight midday bump
- Air Temp: Cold mornings, modest afternoon warming
- Clarity: Exceptionally clear
- Crowds: Medium even in winter, especially on weekends
- Best Window: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
- Fishing Type Focus: Winter nymphing with small midges and long controlled drifts
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Weather
Littleton Weather
Expect open valley winter conditions. Cold mornings, frequent wind, and short warming periods during the middle of the day. Calm, sunny days fish best. Wind significantly reduces visibility and feeding activity.
Top Flies in Your Box This Week
- Black Beauty 22 to 24
- Mercury Midge 22 to 24
- Zebra Midge (black or red) 22 to 24
- RS2 (gray or black) 22 to 24
- WD-40 22 to 24
- JuJu Baetis 20 to 22
- Small Pheasant Tail 18 to 20
- Mini Leech (black) 12 to 14
Pro Rig of the Week: Waterton Quiet-Feet Midge Rig
- Indicator: Small yarn or micro pinch on indicator
- Lead Fly: JuJu Baetis or Pheasant Tail 18 to 20
- Dropper: Mercury Midge or Black Beauty 22 to 24
- Weight: Light split shot placed 12 to 18 inches above the lead fly
- Target Water: Deep troughs, slow walking speed seams, inside bends
Hatch Chart for January
| 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
Dream Stream Parking Area ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Primary access with immediate exposure to productive winter water.
Middle Meadows Flats ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Long slow seams and deep lanes where trout hold during winter.
Upper Trough Sections ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Less pressure and better holding water if you are willing to walk.
Lower Confluence Water ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Technical water with heavy pressure but consistent fish.
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
FAQ
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.
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
