Crossword Genius

One long in the water? Leave rock (6,3)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

conger eel

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

'one long in the water?' is the definition.
I can't judge whether this defines the answer.

'leave rock' is the wordplay.
'leave' becomes 'conge' (I've seen this in other clues).
'rock' becomes 'reel' (reel can mean to rock around).
'conge'+'reel'='CONGER-EEL'

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for conger eel that I've seen before include "Predatory sea creature" , "Large slippery fish" , "swimmer" , "Predatory fish" , "long haul?" .)

I've seen this clue in The Independent.
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