Ask if Freddie can make some small boat? (5)

I believe the answer is:

skiff

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'some small boat?' is the definition.
(skiff is a kind of small boat)

'ask if freddie can' is the wordplay.
'SKIFF' is hidden within the letters.
But, I'm uncertain how this is indicated.

'make' is the link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for skiff that I've seen before include "Small light boat" , "Small rowing boat" , "Light rowing boat for one person" .)

I've seen this clue in the Sydney Morning Herald.

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