If you're not sure about the location, you can place a sandbag or something similar on top of the transducer. Build a dam out of plumbers putty, duct seal, ect. so that it will hold water around the puck to prevent air from getting under it. You still may want to sand the hull a bit to provide a smooth surface for the puck to rest on. Then make several dry runs to determine the best location. Once you find the best location then you will feel more at ease before permanently mounting it. I did my other boat (Ranger) that way. Just my 2 cents worth.