The only time I've used a pole it was a simply a big ass stick. I wish I had a photo of me using it but alas, I only seem to have this one. Have you ever been stand up paddle boarding on the ocean? That is one of the greatest things ever.
We have two down on the boat in RB. You and the wife and child are more than welcome to use them whenever. It's a lot more fun when kids are a bit older and can really understand all the sea life. Watching a 5 year old discover seals or sea slugs or seaweed is a really fun experience. "It barks like a dog but it looks like a whale! I don't know what to do with myself!"
The first time I started to truly warm up to the idea of children was at the Monterey Aquarium. I was having a killer time but I realized I'd be having a more killer time with a kid around… Thanks for the offer. Might take you up one of these days...