You have already entered the world of Kayaking, and one thing you will learn really fast is that you are never alone. Someone, for the most part, will always be there to help you.
I too had the same worries, but not now and that is mainly because of all the help I received on this site. All the things that you are worried about we all can help you learn how to prevent them, or at least keep you from losing anything. The way you set up your yak should be in such a way to prevent from losing thing. Rods should be secured either in the yak or with bungies or something. Same goes with your gear. Check out Youtube and search for videos on riging your Kayak. Milk crates make it really easy to rig your yak. There is also a thread on this site I think it's called share your innovations or something like that. There are many ideas for you to use there.
http://www.bigwatersedge.com/bwevb/s...ead.php?t=6394
I've learned a lot from all of these guys. Just don't be shy about asking for help, I had to have surgery on my arm Monday because I didn't ask for help.
Welcome to Kayak fishing, and if you need any pointers I'll be glad to help out. If you attend the Fred hall show meet up with the OEX guys and the hobie guys. When I upgrade to a bigger yak I'm thinking of going withthe Malibu Stealth. That will be a while though.