The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 7 letter word GUDGEON
G
U
D
G
E
O
N
Buddy explains!

The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does GUDGEON mean?
GUDGEON noun- A small freshwater fish, Gobio gobio, that is native to Eurasia.
- Any of various similar small fish of the family Eleotridae, often used as bait.
- A person apt to take the bait; one easily cheated or duped; also, an idiot.
- Something used to lure or tempt; bait, a lure.
- To deprive (someone) fraudulently; to cheat, to dupe.
- To take the bait; to be defrauded or duped.
- A circular or cylindrical fitting, often made of metal, into which a pin or pintle fits to create a hinge or pivoting joint.
- (specifically) In a vessel with a stern-mounted rudder: the fitting into which the pintle of the rudder fits, allowing the rudder to swing freely.