Boating & Hunting in Mt. Vernon

Mt. Vernon offers opportunities for both recreation and outdoor adventure — from boating and fishing on Jaycee Lake to bow hunting within city limits.

Jaycee Lake

Jaycee Lake is owned by the City of Mt. Vernon. It was built in the early 1900s as the city’s second water supply. The lake covers about 90 acres and is a favorite spot for fishing, water skiing, kayaking, and mountain biking nearby trails. Anglers often catch largemouth bass and crappie, making it a popular local fishing destination.

View Jaycee Lake on Google Maps 

Boat Sticker Requirements

All boats — including kayaks, canoes, and paddle boats — must display a City of Mt. Vernon boat sticker.

  • Stickers are good from May 1 through April 30 each year.
  • To get a sticker, fill out the Boat License Application and turn it in with payment to the City Clerk’s Office.
  • You can submit your form in person or by mail: City Clerk's Office, 1100 Main Street, Mt. Vernon, IL 62864

Boat stickers can be picked up at the City Clerk’s Office during normal business hours. You can also ask to have it mailed to you.

Please Note:
All boaters and fishers must follow all state, federal and city boating and fishing rules.

Boat ramp with water
parking lot and lake
water and trees

Annual Boat Fees

Non Motorized/Trolling $5.00

Jaycee Lake

Motorized $50.00

Jaycee Lake (Jefferson County Resident or Lake Property Lessee)

Motorized $100.00

Jaycee Lake (Non resident of Jefferson County, non lessee or commercial entity)

Hunting in City limits

Antlerless-Only Bow Hunting

Bow hunting for antlerless deer is allowed within Mt. Vernon city limits during seasons set by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR).

To qualify for a City Hunting License, you must have:

  • A valid state hunting license
  • A valid archery permit
  • Written permission from the landowner

All hunters are required to follow state, federal and city hunting rules.

Apply for a Bow Hunting License

You can submit your Bow Hunting License Application online or download a printable version.

  • Licenses are good for two weeks
  • To extend your hunting period, fill out the Additional Hunting Dates Form ( available online or for download).

Report Your Hunt

After each hunting period, you must turn in a Harvest Report — even if you didn’t get a deer. Reports can be submitted online or by downloading the form.

Mt. Vernon invites everyone to enjoy the outdoors responsibly — whether on the water or in the woods. Together, we can protect and preserve these natural spaces so they remain a source of beauty and recreation for generations to come.

Contact Information

City Clerk Office
1100 Main Street
Mt. Vernon, IL 68264
See on map: Google Maps

Office Hours
Monday - Friday
8 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Phone: (618) 242-6815
Fax: (618) 242-6867

City Clerk
Becky Barbour
Email: city.clerk@mtvernon.com