The Dream Stream is the stretch of water on the South Platte River running between the Spinney Mountain Reservoir and Elevenmile Reservoir.  It is home to so many Gold Medal trout. Framed by rugged mountains in the background, this meandering 30 foot wide river is filled with monster trout. As a year-round tailwater fishery, it is considered by most fly fishing anglers as the best destination in the state for trophy trout include in winter..

Everyday anglers consider any spot on the Dream Stream to be an ideal spot, expecting fish to come to them because they are so abundant. More experienced and knowledgeable fishermen and women, however, search for the best fishing spots on the Dream Stream. Thanks to some tips from a Minturn Anglers walk and wade guide I engaged a few months back, I know where to look for my trophy trout.

And it does start with “looking”. A quality pair of polarized sunglasses is a must to see fish that would otherwise go unnoticed. From experience, I know they will help you catch more fish.

The five mile stretch of water wending its way from the dam at the Spinney Mountain Reservoir to the bridge at the Eleven Mile Reservoir has a number of perfect fly fishing spots. Search out one of the many deep pools, often located at a bend in the river. There are typically large boulders at the bottom of these pools, ideal spots to target large cuttbows, rainbow and brown trout. I try to cast a few feet past the boulders, and use a slow retrieve with pauses just before and after the stones.

Another prime location is just below makeshift boulder dams that are located throughout the Dream River stretch. Casting across these areas and using a jerk and pause retrieve often generates some reaction strikes. I often try my hand successfully with sight fishing as well. I search for fish just sitting on rocky bottomed water taking advantage of food being brought to them by the current. Placing a fly into this feeding lane can provoke a strike by the trout as it attempts to protect its food source.

Thanks again to insights and guidance provided by fly fishing guides from Minturn Anglers. What I have learned from them continues to influence the success of my every trip to the Dream Stream!