Crossword Genius

Light blows are what fishermen require (6)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

smacks

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

'light blows' is the definition.
'smacks' can be an answer for 'blows' (smack is a kind of blow). I am not certain of the 'light' bit.

I cannot understand how the rest of the clue works.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for smacks that I've seen before include "Has a hint (of)" , "Punishes" , "Boxes" , "Slaps the fishing boats?" , "Hits the fishing vessels" .)

I've seen this clue in The Irish News.
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