Fish finder

I am new to kayak fishing and wanting to put a fish finder on my ocean kayak's scrambler xt. I launch from the surf frequently and have been looking at a
Garmin Echo Map 44dv. The battery, and wiring I have figured out.
Wondering how to mount it so I can use it after launching. Any suggestions?

Best option is generally a RAM mount if you have any concerns where you might want to bend/twist/rotate/remove the head unit, etc...  RAM or RailBlaza both have descent options.  I think Scotty has a universal mount too.

I am new to kayak fishing and wanting to put a fish finder on my ocean kayak's scrambler xt. I launch from the surf frequently and have been looking at a
Garmin Echo Map 44dv. The battery, and wiring I have figured out.
Wondering how to mount it so I can use it after launching. Any suggestions?

Curious why it would make a difference whether you surf launch or not? I've surf launch'd and have had my share of garage sales, but never damaged my FF; and it sat high on the rail.

Your unit is rated IPX7, so you should be okay to get the kayak inverted and the unit in the water.

Your first concern for mounting should be in a location that is easily accessible and visible to you while fishing; and then in a location that would not be impeded if you need to re-enter your kayak after taking a drink.

Maybe it's inexperience, not wanting anything sticking up where it could get damaged if I dump. I secure my rod to the side of the boat, gaff on the other side. Everything tethered, first time I went out I dumped, then again coming in.
Not worried about it getting wet.
Went out last weekend and watched an experienced kayaker lose a pole in the surf, break the other pole, then lose his tackle coming in. Complacent?
Would rather get out of the surf and spend a couple minutes setting up than lose or damage it in the surf.  Cheers!

ahouldnt be an issue with the FF unless your rolling in the shallow surf; before tou get to that pount, you should be already out of the kayak. Unless you dump and your kayak gets away from you...

Now for your poles, gaff and net, different atore...

I had the same concern when setting up my boat.
Adjustable Ram mount  for the FF works for me.  I tuck it down like that so its safe.
I don 't mind replacing gear but not a FF!
And  always take down poles and net when landing??

Scotty

not wanting anything sticking up where it could get damaged if I dump.
Went out last weekend and watched an experienced kayaker lose a pole in the surf, break the other pole, then lose his tackle coming in. Complacent?

Dude! This is spot on. You don't want anything sticking up above the deck too high. Because it'll get crushed when you roll in the surf. I'd use a RAM mount near the front hatch...fold it down when going through surf. Like this: http://jimspears.net/kayakdiving/images/ff11.jpg
When mounting a FF on a kayak, I choose the location based on these 3 factors, in order: 1) will not impede my ability to climb back on kayak if flipped, 2) will not get damaged if kayak rolls in surf, 3) close enough to see screen and press a button or two.  This is after mounting like 8 different fishfinders on different kayaks. But I should also mention that I do not mess around with my FF on the water...I like to "set it & forget it" and only press buttons to mark reefs (maybe like 2 or 3 times per session), while some guys like to fiddle with their instrument more frequently. 

And you're right about becoming complacent. Always be aware of yourself and your surroundings!   

Thanks guys! great information, thanks for sharing it with me.

I recommend RAM over Scotty for this. If you flip, the RAM ball will (more than likely) slip in the socket before it rips a hole in your boat or snaps.

On a side note (and please don't take this the wrong way)... If you are flipping your kayak frequently, I recommend hitting the beach with an EMPTY kayak and practicing surf launches and landings. Over and over again. Until you feel comfortable with it. THEN load up some fishing gear and do it again, just like you practiced.