Setting the hook on shad?

It's been a pretty dismal shad run on the Russian this year. Been out a lot and finally got my first one of the season below a riffle close to home on the lower river. Only heard about a few being caught here and there from Scott at Kings. Wondering how other folks set the hook when swinging for Shad? With Steelhead, especially big winter fish, I try not to set the hook at all, though it's difficult not to. I have considerably less experience with Shad though, and found last season I had more hook ups when sweeping the rod downstream as soon as I felt a grab. This years been really tough, not sure if its just a bad year numbers wise or just a lack of enough current with the low flows to be able to get them to bite.

Some people jig the fly with their stripping hand to create an action but it might also be setting the hook some?

I agree Bill, it helps a lot! Sometimes the bite is so soft its undetectable.I like to try and jig the fly through the entire swing. It also seems to create a little interest and possibly spark their curiosity.

Shad will do a 180 and go after a fly that is given some movement!

We are so fortunate to have our lower American river flowing clear right throw town.

It is also so nice to see we still have a good Shad run......

Thanks guys will give that a shot. The rivers so much lower compared to last years shad season that swinging it doesnt seem to be working

I am guessing the a clear slow sinking line, longer FC leader and small flies would be good.

AM and/or PM or overcast might help.