If recreating on or near the ice, check the ice before riding and watch for pressure cracks or other signs of water, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources advises. (Michigan Department of Natural Resources photo)

IRON MOUNTAIN — With many people taking advantage of mild weather, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources reminds snowmobile and ORV operators to “Ride Right” and put safety first.

The DNR’s Ride Right snowmobile and ORV safety campaign urges riders to operate at a safe speed, remain sober and stay on the right side of the trail.

Also, the Tri-County Snowmobile Club advises that ORVs are not permitted on groomed snowmobile trails, particularly on private or federal land.

“These trails are strictly maintained for snowmobiling, and usage is restricted to ensure safety and trail integrity,” the club stated in a recent Facebook post.

Ride Right safety guidance urges people to:

— Ride within the limits of your machine and your own abilities.

— Ride within the abilities of your group’s least experienced rider.

— Always wear a helmet.

— Keep headlights on while riding.

— Maintain a safe distance from the rider in front of you.

— Operate with extreme caution in reduced visibility.

— Only transport passengers if the machine is manufactured to do so.

— Make a complete stop before crossing intersections and use extra caution in conditions creating reduced visibility.

— Share the trail. Some designated snowmobile trails are also open to off-road vehicles and other, nonmotorized users.

— Nonmotorized trail users and groomers have the right-of-way. If you see nonmotorized trail users or groomers coming from the opposite direction, pull over and yield.

If riding on or near the ice, check the ice before riding on it and watch for pressure cracks or other signs of water. Just because the ice is strong in one area doesn’t mean it will have the same thickness or strength in other places, the DNR advises.

In Michigan, all snowmobile operators ages 12 through 16 are required to obtain a Michigan-approved snowmobile safety certificate to operate without a legal guardian or to cross a highway or street.

ORV operators under age 16 riding on public or private land in Michigan must take an approved ORV education course, carry an ORV safety certificate and ride under the direct supervision of an adult.

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Snowmobilers are advised to use caution at a water hazard along Trail No. UP8 in Baraga County.

A stream unexpectedly rose and overflowed its banks. Water is over the trail and consequently the trail is not groomed 8.4 miles west of Michigamme.

Slow down in the area and stay to the high side of the trail, the DNR advised. Hazard cones have been placed to define the place where water has overflowed onto the trail.

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This is free fishing weekend in Michigan as all fishing license fees are waived today and Sunday. Residents and out-of-state visitors may enjoy fishing on both inland and Great Lakes waters for all species of fish.

All fishing regulations still apply. Go to Michigan.gov/IceSafety for tips on ice safety.

A Recreation Passport is not required today and Sunday for entry into state parks.

The DNR reported this Upper Peninsula fishing activity:

Little Bay de Noc: Walleye fishing picked up this week. Anglers reported that the numerous fronts moving through, in combination with the associated milder temperatures, resulted in an increase in success. However, they also reported short bite windows. Perch anglers reported catching some large fish; although trips generally resulted in lower-than-desired numbers, some fish were of trophy size. Those who caught several perch reported catching them on tungsten jigs and spoons. Overall, perch fishing saw an uptick in bites with the milder temperatures.

Munising: Anglers had good success on whitefish and coho salmon this past week along with a few nice sized splake mixed in. Some anglers reported seeing some good schools of coho salmon throughout the bay. Anglers targeting yellow perch reported that the bite is starting to pick up. Wax worms, minnows and eggs were the preferred bait.