Hi Carl,
I fished Hoodsport last year. It is a blast with a ton of fish to catch and last year the fish were huge. I expect the same this year based on the season we've had thus far. Here are some details:
Best rig to fish with was by far the simplest. Take a 1,2, or 1/0 hook and tie on some green yarn. That's it, nothing more. Leader is about 3 feet to a weight that is mainly used to just cast with. Cast this rig out and retrieve at a moderate pace, not too slow. You do not want it to drag the bottom. THIS IS NOT A SNAGGING RIG! The fish will hit this rig and hit it hard. You may add a small green corky too, it helps keep the rig suspended. By the day's end your arm will be ready to fall off.
Launching a boat: Here is the link that will show you available boat ramps: http://boat.iac.wa.gov/launches.asp?county=Mason#5
The ramp 1 1/2 mile south of Hoodsport is closest. I think it's kind of steep and slipery. Also, no boat pier. A better launch but farther away (I think about 6-7 miles by boat to Hoodsport) is Twanoh. It has a pier and the launch is less steep. I may use this one this year with my new boat.
Regarding the crowds - yes, very crowded. Be sure to have an anchor that will hold the rather smooth and rocky bottom. Last year everyone was constantly moving due to the tide pushing people's boats even when anchored. Seems like half the boaters had too small of an anchor.
Carl, if you can go on a Wednesday I would be happy to share a trip with you. My boat or yours. Just shoot me an e-mail. I live in Redmond.