While Trout in the Classroom (TIC) has grown and expanded across the state over the years, the team and funds available to coordinate and implement it has not. Each year, our youth education volunteers become increasingly valuable to the success of our education program. That’s why I am excited to highlight Sally Noll as a steadfast and wonderful volunteer. She has been volunteering with Minnesota Trout Unlimited’s (MNTU) education program since the summer of 2022. Sally has assisted with numerous programs over the years, including fall field days, spring releases, fly tying, ice fishing and summer fishing skills programs. She also drives one of our longest egg delivery routes each year to ensure trout eggs arrive safely to our participating schools. Between programs and egg delivery, Sally has donated over 150 hours and many miles on her vehicle to assist with MNTU education.

Below are her answers to a few questions about volunteering. THANK YOU SALLY!

Which program is your favorite to teach?

It will probably sound crazy, but ice fishing is my favorite. Setting up can be pretty tough with hauling stuff out, drilling holes, scooping out the ice and getting rods set up, etc. I assist where I can and help the kids with getting bait on the hook and getting the hook at the right depth. Surprisingly the kids stick with trying to catch a fish. Ice fishing is one way I beat winter! The weirdest ice fishing was at Lake Holland a few years ago. The ice wasn’t good enough to walk out, so the kids fished from the fishing pier in holes drilled by James and Evan. Pretty innovative!

Why do you volunteer with youth?

It is probably a natural progression in my different life phases. With eight grandkids, almost any get-together involved fishing and untangling lines and not playing with the bait. One grandson is now a guide in Alaska and has been since 2019. In my job at the University of Minnesota, I did some teaching and interacted with students doing internships and special projects which taught them many different skills in conducting research. It’s so great to see them now in various jobs and careers. Now that I am retired, I was so happy when I first joined MNTU and TCTU and learned about the active youth education program. It is a continuation of what I enjoy doing even if the kids don’t always listen to what you are saying. They are also very polite which is helpful! Love the enthusiasm, energy and desire to learn. I am continually impressed with the knowledge of the students in what they are learning from MNTU. I love the “active” learning situation which gives more time to interact with the students. 

What is the best thing about volunteering with MNTU youth education?

Of course, working with the youth and seeing what they grasp when it comes to fly tying, skills and even ice fishing. It’s also great to see the appreciation by the teachers. It is fun to work with MNTU educators – Amber, Jim and Evan. I also like meeting other volunteers and getting to recognize them at meetings. Everyone is always so nice.