If you're planning a fun-filled day on the water, Lake of Egypt in Marion, Illinois, is your go-to destination. Nestled in the heart of Marion, this premier lake offers everything you need to make the most of your day. Whether you’re seeking relaxation on a spacious pontoon boat or an exhilarating ride on a jet ski, Lake of Egypt has you covered. Experience the stunning views, enjoy the thrill of the lake, and create lasting memories with boat rentals.
Lake of Egypt is located six miles (10 km) south of Marion, Illinois. It covers 2,300 acres (9 km²) with 90 miles (140 km) of shoreline. The lake has an average depth of 18 feet (5.5 m) with a maximum depth of 52 feet (16 m). It was created in 1962 by the Southern Illinois Power Cooperative (SIPC) by damming the South fork of the Saline River to supply cooling water for a coal-burning electric power plant.
Why Choose Lake of Egypt for Your Boating Adventure?
Lake of Egypt offers a variety of activities and amenities that make it the perfect destination for boating enthusiasts. Here are some reasons to choose Lake of Egypt for your next water adventure:
Fishing Paradise
Lake of Egypt offers some of the best fishing around, attracting people from all over the country. The water is filled with Crappie, Large and Small Mouth Bass, and various other fish species. Fishing is usually good for most species in the lake. Healthy populations of bass, bluegill, and crappie reside here. Spring offers the best opportunity for big catches. Follow the schools of bait as they move up in spring and fall, then go deeper in summer and winter. All fish species here tend to stay close by their food source.
Fishing License Requirements: Illinois residents and non-residents ages 16 & up are required to purchase an Illinois Fishing License. You can obtain a license at the Walmart in Marion, IL, or at local shops like Just Add Water.
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Marinas and Entertainment
The marinas across the lake offer fun nights out during the summer with live music, cover bands, karaoke, and movies! Just Add Water also has some amazing music right off of the lake. Some nights, the marinas offer live music with cover bands that you can drive your boat up and listen from the comfort of your own vessel. Other nights, the bars at the marina have karaoke and open mic nights to really have fun at!
Movie nights are fun for the whole family with a different selection each year! Drive the boat up close to watch the feature film for that evening. Movie night happens only occasionally, so make sure to call prior to your stay to see if this adventure is available and to find out what movie is showing!
General Note: The bars and venues that host the live music and karaoke nights do not allow underage guests into the bar.
Stargazing Opportunities
Lake of Egypt was the best spot to view the Solar Eclipse in 2016 and will be again in 2024. The stars practically sit right above the lake on a clear summer’s night. Look closely and you can see some neighboring planets, and on a super clear night, you can even make out the Milky Way!
Make sure to keep your eyes peeled for a shooting star or two, so watch for them! A meteor shower is a celestial event in which a number of meteors are observed to radiate, or originate, from one point in the night sky called Radiant.
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With so many unique waterways to experience, Shawnee Forest is one of the most varied and adventure-filled locations for boating in Southern Illinois.
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Boat Rental Options on Lake of Egypt
Three locations on the lake offer pontoon boat rentals for those that want to have a fun day on the lake and don’t have their own boat. It’s a great way to see some great lake views, float, and even have a picnic on some of the lake’s hottest spots!
Pontoon Rentals
Looking to enjoy a leisurely day on the lake with family or friends? Pontoon rentals are perfect for a day of relaxation and fun. With plenty of space, comfortable seating, and easy-to-use controls, pontoons offer a great way to enjoy the beautiful surroundings of Lake of Egypt. Whether you're planning a picnic on the water or a scenic cruise, a pontoon boat is a great choice for a stress-free day.
Pontoon Rentals come with a Cooler and Free Delivery to your Vacation Rental (with Dock), or to a Local Marina on the Lake of Egypt.
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Pontoon Boat Models:
- Cocoa Azul: 2015 Crest 22 ft. Pontoon boat with a 115 Suzuki 4-stroke engine. Holds up to 10 people.
- Jack Black: 2019 Suntracker 24 ft. Pontoon boat with a 115 Mercury Outboard. Holds up to 12 people. ADA Accessible.
- Weiner Rides: 2015 Crest II 21ft. Fishing Pontoon Boat with a 90 hp Mercury 4-stroke engine and trolling motor. Holds up to 9 people.
Kayak Rentals
Enjoy a relaxing paddle on Lake of Egypt with kayak rentals. Both Sit-Inside and Sit-On-Top Kayaks are available. Kayak Rentals include a Paddle and PFD.
Lily Pad Rentals
Add extra fun to your lake experience with Lily Pads. The Lily Pad is a great accessory for floating on the lake. It's large enough for the whole family, so kids and adults can enjoy the sun together. A bungee line secures the mat to docks and boats for extra fun outdoors.
Additional Services and Amenities
Lake of Egypt and its surrounding marinas offer a range of services to enhance your boating experience:
- Boat Service and Wrapping: Some businesses offer boat servicing, wrapping, and winter storage.
- Delivery Services: Vacationing on Lake of Egypt? Renting a house (VRBO or Airbnb) on Lake of Egypt? Boat rentals will deliver one of their pontoon boats to your dock.
- Private Boat Dock Access: Some rentals offer access to a private boat dock for fishing or parking your personal boat.
- Cooler: Renters have access to a cooler to use on pontoon boats.
- Camping: Camping at the lake is allowed at Buck Ridge Campground, part of the Shawnee National Forest.
Important Lake Regulations
As a privately owned lake, Lake of Egypt is subject to regulation by its owners and the state. Here are some important rules and restrictions to keep in mind:
- The speed limit on the water is 35mph.
- Skiing can only be done in the designated ski area.
- Jet Skis are allowed on the lake, but not after dusk.
- Pontoon boats are restricted to 28ft or less.
- Hull boats are restricted to 20ft or less.
- There is no engine or horsepower restriction on the lake.
If you bring your own boat, notify the rental service prior to your stay and bring the proper mooring and anchoring gear.
Discounts and Special Offers
Many rental services offer discounts to make your experience even more affordable:
Military Discount
A 10% Discount is offered to Active duty and Veterans (with a Military ID) as a thank you and honor to all who have served.
Public Boat Launches
Below are 3 public boat launches that can be used to put in and take out your boat during your stay.
Customer Testimonials
Here's what customers are saying about their experiences with boat rentals on Lake of Egypt:
- "Great jet skis and wonderful, friendly service. Thanks Big Worm and Jim!"
- "We had a wonderful experience renting our pontoon. Jeremy was very accommodating and the boat was so much fun! The overall experience was excellent from the first phone call until he retrieved the boat. I would highly recommend this place to anyone who wants to explore the Lake of Egypt!"
- "Amazing experience! The staff is absolutely wonderful! They Answer any and all of your questions. The customer service was outstanding. They went above and beyond to make my experience with my family enjoyable and easy! I can’t recommend this business enough!!!!"
With its stunning natural beauty, diverse recreational opportunities, and convenient rental services, Lake of Egypt is the perfect destination for your next boating adventure. Book your rental today and create unforgettable memories on the water!
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