Winter and ice came early again this year! I remember when open water fishing deep into the month of November was once possible and comfortable to do. We've endured brutal fall seasons and rapid cold conclusions these last two years. My 2019 fishing season in Wisconsin concluded on 10/29, and I’m back down south now in IL coping with the winter months, house hunting, and desk work season. As far as I know, ice was already forming on the lakes 10/30, and as of this weekend many the biggest lakes and some rivers remain open and navigable. Cheers to 2019 and your own winterizations. Sorry Hamm's Beer, I didn't have any remaining for a final toast. This last installment of 2019 is a year-end summary with highlights more than an actual fishing report. Unfortunately (mostly due to crappy cold weather) I didn't host any bass trips this October, and therefore don't have much of any current bass fishing reports to share. Since my last report and newsletter from second week of October, smallmouth were already mostly wintering. Following completion of turnover, deep staging fish finally concentrate together and move into their overwintering sites where they will camp at