Where to Go South Platte River – Dream Stream
Current Reports
SUMMER HOURS 6 am to 6 pm Daily
Report Date 8/19/2026
Voluntary closure 12 pm - 12 am daily - CPW
Conditions:
I guess it couldn't last forever. Denver Water did a great job of keeping the water flowing close to 100 cfs for the first part of our summer. This was HUGE considering the lack of water in South Park right now. The level has dropped twice since 8/14 and is now sitting at 64 cfs. This is still fishable but makes things very tough. With the low water and the heat, keep in mind that CPW has voluntary closures in place from 12pm to 12 am daily right now.
Guide Report:
Early start to the day; fish were on small mayflies, RS2, Sniper Beatis, etc. After 9 caddis patterns.
Weather:
Short Term -
We are lucky today. The rain started us off here in Colorado Springs and is expected to hit the canyon as well. Temperatures are only going to reach 76 degrees today with cloud cover and some rain moving through.
Long Term -
This week continues with warm temps (74 - 80) and possible rain storms. Friday is looking to be the only day without potential for rain right now. Sunday is forecasted for the heaviest rain, but isn't calling for thunderstorms right now. Make sure you have your rain jacket!
Hatches:
Tricos continue to be the mainstay. Fish key in on this hatch, but they can still be opportunistic. Don't leave your hoppers at home. They are easier for all of us to see! And as always, don't rule out Midges. They are always there!!
Tactics:
Fish will be spread out and looking for refuge. Cover water and look for feeding trout or prime lays. Cutbanks are a great option! Don't overlook shallow riffles. This faster-moving, oxygenated water is just what the fish need right now.
Tips:
As mentioned above, get yourself up early and hit this section of the South Platte as early as you can muster. Tailwater tiny is the name of the game up here. Especially when the Tricos are around. A good presentation is key!
Photo by Phil Tereyla
This is an area where we offer guided fly fishing trips. There is no better way to learn an area like the Dream Stream than hiring one of our Orvis-endorsed professional guides!
Recommended Fly Patterns
Dry Fly Patterns
- Trico Spinners, sizes #20-26
- "Greased" RS2, sizes #18-24
- Sprout Midge, sizes #18-24
- Micro Chubby, sizes #14-16
- Bionic Ant, sizes #12-14
Nymph Patterns
- Buckskin Caddis, size 18-20
- Bling Midge, size 20-22
- Split Back PMD, size 18-22
- Guide's Choice Hare's Ear, size 14-18
- Massacre Midge Brown, 20-22
- Barrs Graphic Caddis, Tan and Green, size 14-18
Streamer Patterns
- Baby Gonga, Black
- Flatliner, White
- Slump Buster, Olive
Anglers Covey Bug Of The MOnth:
BE SURE TO CHECK OUT OUR "WHERE TO GO" PAGE FOR DETAILED INFORMATION ON OTHER AREAS!
The South Platte River below Spinney Reservoir is known to most local anglers as the "Dream Stream." This tailwater doesn't have many hold over fish and is subject to high wind speeds and inclement weather. The spring and fall have been the Dream Stream's saving grace because of the spawns. Large rainbows and cutthroat trout move into the river in the spring, and Large browns and kokanee salmon move in in the fall. There is no camping available next to the river; however, several great campgrounds are downstream along Elevenmile Reservoir. There is a $9 parks pass fee to park in the last lot below Spinney.
This is an area we specialize and are permitted to guide in, so give us a shout if you have any questions or if you are interested in allowing one of our Orvis-Endorsed guides show you how best to conquer South Platte River – Dream Stream.