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The Dream Stream or Middle Fork of the South Platte River, located below Spinney Mountain Reservoir in Colorado, is a prime destination for fly fishing enthusiasts. This section of the river is known for its scenic beauty, diverse fish species, and a variety of fishing spots ranging from serene meadows to rocky, challenging terrains. The river flows through several state wildlife areas, making it accessible and popular for both novice and experienced anglers.
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South Platte River Fishing Report – Dream Stream – Above Spinney Mountain Reservoir - March 14th 2025
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March on the Dream Stream is a rollercoaster of highs and heartbreaks—one day, you’ll hook into a beast of a brown or a migrating rainbow, and the next, you’ll wonder if trout even exist. This stretch of the South Platte River between Spinney and Eleven Mile Reservoirs is technical, highly pressured, and full of trophy potential. The key? Patience, stealth, and a willingness to adapt.
Flows are low and clear, which means stealth is everything. The rainbow spawn is starting, so expect big fish moving up from Eleven Mile. That also means crowds—weekends can feel like a scene from a fly-fishing reality show. Midges and Baetis are the main game, but don’t be afraid to throw big stoneflies or small streamers to trigger an aggressive eat.
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Conditions Summary
- Flow Rate: 50-75 CFS (Low and clear)
- Water Temperature: 38-42°F
- Clarity: Gin clear—stealth required
- Best Times: Late morning to mid-afternoon
- Star Rating: ⭐⭐ (2/5 – Big fish are in, but pressure is high)
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River Flow Chart
Source: Colorado DWR River Station Reports
Dream Stream Hatch Chart
| Month | Primary Hatches | Effective Patterns |
|---|---|---|
| Feb | Midges, Winter Stones | Zebra Midge (#20-24), RS2 (#20-22), Pat’s Rubber Legs (#12-14) |
| Mar | Midges, Baetis (BWO), Stoneflies | Black Beauty (#20-24), Blue Wing Olive (#18-22), Pat’s Rubber Legs (#10-12) |
| Apr | Baetis, Caddis, Midges | Elk Hair Caddis (#16-18), RS2 (#20-22), San Juan Worm (#12-14) |
Top Flies for the Week
- Dry Fly: Blue Wing Olive (#18-22) – On cloudy afternoons, BWOs can bring fish to the surface.
- Nymph: Egg Patterns / San Juan Worms (#12-16) – Rainbows are spawning, and eggs are a major food source.
- Streamer: Mini Leech (#8-12) – Swinging a small leech can wake up an aggressive brown.
Tips for Fly Fishing the Dream Stream in March
Seasonal Tip
The rainbow spawn is starting, so be mindful of redds—avoid wading through shallow, cleared-out gravel beds.
Dry Fly
Not much happening on top, but keep an eye out for Baetis on cloudy days.
Nymphing
Most productive method right now—focus on eggs, midges, and small stoneflies.
Streamer Fishing
Can be effective if you dead-drift or swing smaller leeches and buggers.
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Access Points
Upper Section (Near Spinney Mountain Ranch)
- Description: Lower angler pressure, good riffles and deep pools.
- Why Fish Here: Less crowded, but fish are more spread out.
- Locals’ Rating: ⭐⭐⭐
Middle Section (Prime Dream Stream Water)
- Description: Classic Dream Stream—big fish, but big crowds.
- Why Fish Here: Trophy browns and rainbows move through here during the spawn.
- Locals’ Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Lower Section (Closer to Eleven Mile Reservoir)
- Description: Deeper, slower water, more chance at big fish.
- Why Fish Here: Big fish stage here before running upstream.
- Locals’ Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Local Regulations and Notes on Landowner Rights
- Artificial flies and lures only—no bait fishing.
- Catch and release recommended for spawning fish—protect the resource!
- Private property surrounds some sections—be mindful of signage.
The Dream Stream in March is high risk, high reward—you might catch the fish of a lifetime or spend hours trying to figure them out. Either way, it’s worth the effort.
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