Blue Stream Fly Fishing
Fly Fishing Report for:

South Platte - Dream Stream - Colorado

Hatch Chart - Best Access/Spots - Local Fish - About

Water Flow Chart

Using Water Flow Charts & Weather Reports: Begin with our water flow charts to grasp stream velocity and volume – look for stable or rising trends to pinpoint ideal fishing times. Learn to interpret sudden spikes or drops, which can indicate potential challenges. Next, consult our weather reports to understand ambient conditions. Pairing the two, you can anticipate fish behavior, choose the right gear, and select the best fishing spots. Use these tools together for a holistic approach to your next fishing adventure.

In-Depth Weather

Directions To Location

Hatch Chart

Month Hatch Time of Day Recommended Fly Sizes Popular Fly Patterns
January Midge Afternoon 18-22 Rising Midge, Top Secret Midge
Scud All Day 16-20 Scud Flashback
February Midge Afternoon 18-22 Rising Midge, Top Secret Midge
Scud All Day 16-20 Scud Flashback
March Midge Afternoon 18-22 Rising Midge, Top Secret Midge
Blue-Winged Olive Afternoon 18-22 Frenchie, RS2
April Midge Afternoon 18-22 Rising Midge, Top Secret Midge
Blue-Winged Olive Afternoon 18-22 Frenchie, RS2
May Midge Afternoon 18-22 Rising Midge, Top Secret Midge
Caddis Dusk 14-18 Elk Hair Caddis, X Caddis
June Yellow Sally Stoneflies Afternoon 14-16 Yellow Sally Fly
Midge Afternoon 18-22 Rising Midge, Top Secret Midge
July Yellow Sally Stoneflies Afternoon 14-16 Yellow Sally Fly
Midge Afternoon 18-22 Rising Midge, Top Secret Midge
August Terrestrials All Day 10-14 Chubby Chernobyl, Hopper Patterns
Midge Afternoon 18-22 Rising Midge, Top Secret Midge
September Terrestrials All Day 10-14 Chubby Chernobyl, Hopper Patterns
Blue-Winged Olive Afternoon 18-22 Frenchie, RS2
October Blue-Winged Olive Afternoon 18-22 Frenchie, RS2
Midge Afternoon 18-22 Rising Midge, Top Secret Midge
November Midge Afternoon 18-22 Rising Midge, Top Secret Midge
Scud All Day 16-20 Scud Flashback
December Midge Afternoon 18-22 Rising Midge, Top Secret Midge
Scud All Day 16-20 Scud Flashback

While we strive to ensure the precision of our hatch charts, some reflect broader river region insights. Through ongoing partnerships with local guides and fly shops, we’re committed to refining our data. Should you notice any inconsistencies or have feedback, we welcome you to reach out. 

Best Fishing Spots

The South Platte – Dream Stream in Colorado is heaven for fly fishers and is rich with diverse aquatic life. Here are some of the top spots:

  • Charlie Meyer’s State Wildlife Area: A famous fly-fishing spot located between Spinny Mountain and Eleven Mile reservoirs. It is known for large trout.
  • Deckers: This renowned area on the South Platte is popular for its gold medal waters and wild trout.
  • Badger Basin / Tomahawk SWA: These relatively untouched areas offer solitude for peaceful fly fishing.
  • Cheesman Canyon: A challenging terrain known for its large rainbow and brown trout.

Remember, the Dream Stream’s inconsistent water levels can change the fishing conditions, so it’s crucial to check current conditions before heading out.

Best Access Points

The South Platte – Dream Stream in Colorado is renowned for its excellent fly fishing opportunities. The following are the best access points:

  • Eleven Mile Canyon: Located west of Lake George, it provides several accessible spots to fly fish while enjoying stunning natural beauty.
  • Cheesman Canyon: This portion consists of deep pools, fast runs, and majestic boulder fields. Accessed by foot, it’s perfect for those seeking a rugged fishing adventure.
  • Deckers: Easily accessible with plenty of public fishing areas. It holds a large population of trout making it a favorite among anglers.
  • Waterton Canyon: The river here has a firm gravel bottom that is easy to wade, providing an excellent habitat for trout.
  • Charlie Meyers State Wildlife Area: Known colloquially as the ‘Dream Stream’, it boasts larger than average fish and consistently flowing cold water.

Always check local regulations and seasonal changes before you plan your fly fishing trips.

Local Fish

  1. Brown Trout: Known for their aggressive behavior and beautiful colors, Brown Trout are a common target for anglers on the Dream Stream.
  2. Rainbow Trout: Offering a fun and exciting catch, Rainbow Trout are often found in the faster, riffled sections of the river.
  3. Cutthroat Trout: An indigenous species of trout to the Colorado region, Cutthroats are typically found in streams and nearby lakes.
  4. Brook Trout: These fish are usually found in clear, cool waters, and they provide an excellent fight for fly fishermen.
  5. Mountain Whitefish: They are commonly found in the cool, high altitude waters of the South Platte.
  6. Kokanee Salmon: They are known to make their way up the South Platte toward the Dream Stream, providing a unique fly fishing experience.
  7. Arctic Grayling: They are uncommon but are always a rewarding catch because of their distinctive, sail-like dorsal fins.
  8. Greenback Cutthroat Trout: This native species is elusive and catching one is considered a prize among local fishers in the South Platte – Dream Stream.

About The River

In the heart of the Colorado high country flows a fly fisherman’s delight, known fondly as the South Platte – Dream Stream. Packed with healthy rainbows, cutthroats, and browns, it’s been a fishing mainstay for generations.

The South Platte River journey begins in the Mosquito Range, tumbling and winding through conifer forests until it reaches Spinney Mountain Reservoir. From there, a 3-mile magical stretch occurs between the reservoir and Eleven Mile. This stretch, christened as the ‘Dream Stream,’ is a must-visit for any fishing enthusiast.

  • 1962: Colorado’s beloved Spinney Mountain Reservoir opens, creating a new fishing hot spot.
  • 1999: Dream Stream becomes famous, thanks to a gold-rush of Kokanee Salmon.
  • 2007: The area gets recognized as a Gold Medal Water, denoting exceptional fishing.

Today, the Dream Stream keeps captivating anglers with its serene beauty and abundance of fish, marking it as an enduring gem in America’s angling history.

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