Dear Hammerhead54,
Your transducer should point straight down in order to measure the depth directly under the boat. It doesn't matter where you install it, as long as it points straight down and you can wire it OK. You can use wood shims and some type of glue or putty to accomplish this if the inside of the hull is curved. Angled wooden winch pads might work for you. The end of the transducer should sit horizontal.
Pointing the transducer forward will give incorrect depth readings.
Bob Lendvay