Subtle, fishy invitation to have a bite? (6)

I believe the answer is:

gentle

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

'bite?' is the definition.
The definition and answer can be both to do with contact as well as being verbs in their base form.
Maybe there's an association between them I don't understand?

I cannot understand how the rest of the clue works.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for gentle that I've seen before include "Not harsh or violent" , "Soft and mild, quiet and soothing" , "Kind, not rough" , "Kind, not harsh" , "Mild; a maggot" .)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.

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.