Anyone in WA/OR know what's going on with the Shad this year? They don't seem to be biting very well. It seems like the 50-100 fishermen on the shores catch less in a day this year than one person in years prior. Btw if you have any secret tactic for these fish and don't want it posted online please feel free to enlighten me by PM (seriously please). I want to learn how to catch these things but even the "Masters" don't seem to be doing so well. 

Maybe I should try to be more cognizant of unintended consequences. I feel like I've indirectly caused more people to head out and go Shad fishing without any replies to my original query. 

Well since this is a bass fishing site for the most part you may not get many hits.  Personally I would rather chase the smallies on the Columbia.  Check in Fisherman's Marine or Sportsman's Warehouse in Oregon City area.  There's some good knowledge in those stores that may help you on your quest.

Good point. I probably should have asked in the "Other Fish" section or elsewhere. 

Owner Sabiki ( mackerel jigging rig ) with 4 to 6 squid skirts with bright color flash and use a 1/8 oz Kastmaster chrome spoon for the weight. Fish during early morning and the last hour before dusk. You need light tackle like a 7-7 1/2' ML spinning outfit and cast up current and let it swim down current reeling slowly, with a few jerks every few yards.

American Shad....I believe the spawning run may be over?

PS, bright color crappie jigs with a fly rod if the bight is good.