Wrap the poles with something, string a heavy rope between them to act as a railing. Anything you wrap on the poles that holds water/moisture will contribute them to rusting quicker.

Cut them off flush with the top of the pier.

Is the pier set at the highest water level the pond could ever see?

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3/4 to 1 1/4 ac pond LMB, SMB, PS, BG, RES, CC, YP, Bardello BG, (RBT & Blue Tilapia - seasonal).