Today, I returned to the lake early afternoon, while I so desired to fish, I did not think it prudent as the temps were below zero and wind made it even colder. However, here are some important fishing notes from today. Ameren has indicated today that they are beginning their winter lake draw down today (Monday) and tomorrow (Tuesday). The moderate generation planned will bring the lake level from a level of 658.7 to 658.0, with on-going slight generation later this week (stay tuned on this). The winter draw down should get the scattered fish, that we have experienced the past few weeks, moving to their winter bunch up areas close to main lake and secondary points as well as bank transition of depth and rock transitions. As the banks will slowly become more exposed it will be easier for us fisherman to ID ledges, secondary points/points with rocks to pattern, rock transitions and better ID of ditches and creek banks. Lastly, although it it has been very cold, the strong winds are keeping the lake from freezing. See pictures from today. Starting tomorrow, a slow warm us is forecast which should keep the lake from freezing and hopefully keep things on track for the Bassing Bob tournament this coming Saturday. Keep monitoring the Bassing Bob website for further updates, but as of now, we are planning to have the tournament this Saturday out of Robins Resort. I will be monitoring PB 2 this week to see if the cove there thaws or if all launching will have to take place from Robins ramp, if all launching will be from Robins, we will likely delay take-off by 30 minutes to give everyone ample time to get their boats in the water…..stay tuned.