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Boating and Hunting

Jaycee Lake

Owned by the City of Mt. Vernon, Jaycee Lake was built in the early 1900s as a second reservoir for the community. With a surface area of approximately 90 acres, this lake is a popular local recreational spot for water skiing, mountain biking and catching largemouth bass or crappie. 

All boats, including kayaks, canoes and paddle boats, are required to have a City of Mt. Vernon sticker. Stickers are valid from May 1st the year of purchase until April 30th the following year. To receive a sticker you must submit a completed boat license application and payment in person or by mail to the City Clerk's Office 1100 Main Street, Mt. Vernon IL., 62864.  Stickers can be picked up in the City Clerk's Office inside City Hall during normal business hours or mailed at your request.

Downloadable Boat License Application

Boaters and anglers are responsible for abiding by all state, federal and city ordinances related to boating and fishing.

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

Antlerless-only bow hunting is allowed within the city limits during IDNR-appointed seasons and with a license from the city. To apply for a license from the city you must have a valid state hunting license, valid archery permit and written permission from the landowner. All hunters are responsible for abiding by all state, federal and city ordinances related to hunting.

Bow Hunting License Application
Downloadable Bow Hunting License Application

All city-issued bow hunting licenses are valid for two weeks. If you wish to extend your hunting experience, an additional hunting dates form must be submitted for approval.

Additional Hunting Dates Application
Downloadable Additional Hunting Dates Application

Once you have completed each hunting period, a harvest report must be submitted whether a deer was harvested or not. 

Harvest Report
Downloadable Harvest Report