We're required to register (pay fee) just about every conceivable watercraft, here's an excerpt:
Vessel or Watercraft means every description of watercraft, used or capable of being used as a means of transportation on water, except a seaplane on the water, inner tube, air mattress or similar device.

A few years ago I was given a 75$ ticket for paddling an unregistered canoe on a local pond. Now I grudgingly pay the annual fee (6$, I think) I'm going to try attaching the registration decal to the bow loop of my kayak with a hanging luggage tag. I 'spose a typical IL DNR Nazi could still ticket me, but I'll take my chances.

Jim