Yet another transducer install question

It has been a long time since I looked into this.

I just picked up a Helix 9 MSI+ unit. The transducer is long and not cheap. I am afraid of damaging it with a poor mounting location.

I have a Hobie 2013 (2014?) Pro Angler and a Humminbird 798si +Scotty 140 transducer mount right now.

I recall before that people said under the hull with 3d printed shield or a BerkleyPro was possible but also that people ended up with damaged transducers. Now it seems that people simply mount them underneath and are OK with the unit being the lowest thing to the ground.

Are people still damaging their SI units with protruding underhull mounts?
Are the bow and side of yak still preferred positions?

Thank you