Winter Fly Fishing on the Dream Stream: Tips and Tactics for Success

The Dream Stream or Middle Fork of the South Platte River, located below Montgomery 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.

South Platte River Fishing Report – Above Spinney Mountain Reservoir (Dream Stream) – Feb 2025

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The Dream Stream is currently living up to its name—if your dream involves technical drifts, spooky fish, and the chance at a monster trout. Flows are low and clear, making fish hyper-selective and requiring stealthy approaches and precise casts. While the winter crowds are lighter than during the famous spring and fall runs, you’ll still see a few dedicated anglers out there.

Most fish are hunkered down in deeper pools, sipping midges and Baetis, with occasional movement from post-spawn browns and pre-spawn rainbows. If you’re hunting for trophy fish, deep nymph rigs or dead-drifted streamers are your best bet. Dry fly opportunities are slim, but midges might bring risers in the slowest water during warm afternoons.

Conditions Summary

• Flow Rate: 50-60 CFS (low but typical for winter)
• Water Temperature: 34-38°F
• Clarity: Crystal clear with occasional ice along the banks
• Best Times: Late morning to mid-afternoon
• Star Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5 – Challenging but rewarding for patient and technical anglers)

Top Flies for the Week

• Dry Fly: Griffith’s Gnat (#20-24) – Use during calm afternoons when midges cluster in slow water.
• Nymph: RS2 (#20-22) – Deadly when paired with a small midge or Baetis pattern.
• Streamer: Olive Mini Leech (#10-12) – Slowly dead-drift or lightly strip in deeper pools for larger trout.

Dream Stream Hatch Chart

Tips for Fly Fishing the Dream Stream

Seasonal Tip

Fish are huddled in deeper runs and slow-moving pools—use long leaders, 6X tippet, and precise presentations to fool these wary trout.

Dry Fly

Expect minimal surface action, but a few fish may rise to midges in the warmest part of the day.

Nymphing

This is your best shot at success—pair a small midge with a Baetis pattern under a light indicator or use a tight-line setup for more control.

Streamer Fishing

For larger, lazy trout, dead-drift or slow-strip small leeches or sculpins through the deepest pools.

Access Points

Upper Parking Lot Access

• Description: Quick access to long, deep runs and productive pools.
• Why Fish Here: Consistent holding water with less pressure in winter.
• Locals’ Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Bridge Access (Near Middle Section)

• Description: Offers riffles, tailouts, and deep holes for varied fishing opportunities.
• Why Fish Here: Great for nymphing and occasional streamer shots at bigger fish.
• Locals’ Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Lower Parking Lot Access

• Description: Slower water and deep runs ideal for winter trout.
• Why Fish Here: Fewer anglers and a chance at a larger, solitary brown.
• Locals’ Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Local Regulations and Notes on Landowner Rights

• Artificial flies and lures only—no bait fishing allowed.
• Catch-and-release encouraged to protect spawning fish.
• Watch for private property markers—public access is well-marked, but be respectful.
• Winter Caution: Be cautious of shelf ice along the banks, and avoid wading near undercut ice edges.

The Dream Stream may be technical this time of year, but patient anglers willing to slow down their presentations and adjust tactics will find rewarding fishing and the chance at a true trophy trout.