What else could be attached to the end of a push pole to make it more worthwhile? Not exactly an item that would be used all year round. Ive seen lure retrievers. What else could it be used for???

emergency paddle!  

I guess it depends on were you live for I use mine 8 or 9 months out of the year. So to me they are worth the money. As for other uses maybe a lure retriever, maybe.

If you get the one with a fork in the end, you can make an awesome water balloon launcher

With a small attachment on the end, they can be great for passing "things" from boat to boat

Pointed end for shallow anchoring

If you have never poled a boat before you had better practice  

harpoon and surf rod

Flag staff.