Crossword Genius

Backed Irish setter producing big blue shiner (5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

rigel

'big blue shiner' is the definition.
(brightest star in Orion)

'backed irish setter' is the wordplay.
'backed' is a reversal indicator.
'irish' becomes 'IR' (abbreviation).
'setter' becomes 'gel' (something which sets).
'ir' backwards is 'ri'.
'ri'+'gel'='RIGEL'

'producing' acts as a link.

(Other definitions for rigel that I've seen before include "Brightest star in Orion" , "shiner" , "Orion's brightest star" .)

I've seen this clue in The Independent.
Want a hint initially instead of a full solution? Install my app