FWIW If I were taking my son fishing before he was6 years old or so it would likely be for Sunnies rather than trout unless he proved able and interested. Sunnies are always cooperative and receive little fishing pressure. They also tend to be in areas that have other things to do if boredom sets in like playgrounds or fields. No need for any fancy tackle either. Hook, some worms and a bobber and your good to go. No being shoulder to shoulder either. It is how I started and caught the fishing fever. Fishing was always encouraged and supported to me by my Grandfather, Opening Day was more a date on a calender and an excuse for a good breakfast at the fire department than anything overly special. I am truly perplexed at why people need a set date in April to get together and fish. Have we really become so busy as a society that we cannot allot any day we choose (I'm not saying ditch work) to get together and relax and share the outdoors? If you want to get together for an "opening day" on the third Saturday in April go right ahead. If you can't make it or someone else can't, schedule a new date.