The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 9 letter word DRIFTNETS
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Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "They move with tides" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case they move with tides = driftnets.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 DRIFTNETS mean?
DRIFTNETS noun- A very long fishing net, supported by floats, that drifts with the current behind a fishing boat
- To fish using a drift net