Ahoy Kenny
Let me make a few suggestions that I have learned from others that seem to work rather well for me. The idea of taking an elastic cord and stretching it flat and somewhat tight across a thwart in front of you via 2 holes which are drilled at either end came from well known and respected author and woodsman Cliff Jacobs. The idea is to be able to slide your map (in its waterproof map case of course) underneath this "shock cord". The benefits are strong.

First, you don't have to look down or stop paddling to read your map. Just a quick glance to ascertain your position.

Secondly, even in strong winds your map stays put. Just by sliding it in or out you can change the angle by which you view it.

On only my second canoe trip (my first was a four day fiasco in BWCA) I did 13 days and well over 100 miles solo in the Quetico by basically following the shoreline and watching my map inch by inch. It's really quite easy when you employ this method. Here comes a point, there is the cove and next should be a little creek.....yup. Go this route initially (that is following the shoreline) and you will gain confidence. You will also see more wildlife and find good spots to fish. Besides I like looking in the water and seeing rocks, logs, fish etc. I also like the feeling of the land slipping past me. Blah, blah I could go on and on.

I am not keen about having a map at my feet. A poor idea IMO.

The other ideas that I perceive are winners came from this website. I like KF's method of mounting his fishfinder and Martens method of mounting his GPS. Again both employ the thwart in front of them as a platform of sorts. You barely have to move your eyes to get info and of course there is no need to stop paddling. Practical and efficient!