Man what a loaded question, but legitimate. Only you know YOUR water the best. I have stuff I have carried for a long time with no luck and then I hit that day where it is the only thing in the box that works. Stick with two things and you will be fine, stay with basic colors for your water. I.E. stuff that works there. The other is your gut instincts. I carry too much stuff when I'm out out of my area. Couldn't catch much on my jigs so I went to a local and ask a few question. He gave me a couple jigs and I did very well. I had never fished purple and flashabou alone ever. It worked in that water. One of my friends only fishes with black, white, or yellow. Not my thing but he does quite well. I don't think this much helps but after 50 years their is no magic bullet. Oh and most importantly, You are the super DAD for teaching your kids a great tradition. Good luck