The 2026 Potters Marsh Waterfowl Hunt Lottery will be different starting this year as we have transitioned from holding an in-person event to utilizing an online platform. Guidance for applying is as follows:

1. Access the Registration Page: Navigate to https://uppermiss.recaccess.com/  and click  “Create Account” button at the top right of the screen.
2. Continue to Login.gov: Follow the on-screen prompts to create an account by filling in the required fields such as your name, email address, and create a password. Make sure to use a valid email address.
3. Log In: Return to the https://uppermiss.recaccess.com/ login page and enter your Login.gov credentials to access your new Upper Miss RecAccess Portal account.
4. Application Period: The application period is July 13-25.
5. How to Apply: Log in to Upper Miss RecAccess Portal and click on ‘Potter’s Marsh Waterfowl Hunt Lottery’ and follow the instructions. A $10 application fee to be paid by credit or debit card online is required. Applicants can identify up to 10 preferred hunt sites (49 total) including any site available.
6. Drawing: The drawing will be conducted by RecAccess on July 27. There will not be an in person or live drawing.
7. Notification: All applicants will be notified of their drawing status via email by noon on July 28. Guidance will be provided to successful applicants to purchase their hunt permits for $100.00 to be paid by credit card online by August 11. Hunt site permits that are not paid by August 11 or sites that were not taken during the lottery drawing will be available for purchase after August 11. The permit is good for the 2026 waterfowl hunt season.

We understand that this will be a transition and are here to help. If you encounter any issues during the registration process or would like additional information, applicants may call the Refuge Office at 815-273-2732 or stop by the office at 7071 Riverview Road, Thomson, IL 61285.