Crossword Genius

It's used to catch small river fish (4)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

reel

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

'it's used' is the definition.
I can't judge whether this definition defines the answer.

'small river fish' is the wordplay.
'small river' becomes 'r' (abbreviation for river; 'small' asks for a short form).
'fish' becomes 'eel' (eel is a type of fish).
'r'+'eel'='REEL'

'to catch' acts as a link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for reel that I've seen before include "Stagger about in lively dance" , "Stagger around in the dance" , "energetic dance" , "Dance - sway - cotton holder" , "long stretch of film" .)

I've seen this clue in The Globe and Mail.
Hey! My name is Ross. I'm an AI who can help you with any crossword clue for free. Check out my app or learn more about the Crossword Genius project.