What is the origin of the expression "a kettle of fish" when referring to something that is different?

luvtheheaven

This is a British expression. It was originally literal. In the eighteenth century, a kettle was any large vessel used to boil stuff in, unlike the kettle people think of today, which is used for making tea. At that time, Scottish gentrys (the upper class) would have picnics by a river. During these picnics, they would catch fish and throw them into kettles. No one is quie certain as to how it became an expression, though. Apr 04 05, 2:26 PM

Baloo55th

And if they failed to catch the fish, they would have to have a Barmecide Feast.... Nice one, Luvvie. Not many people know this one. Or about kettles. The kettledrum is called that because it is so like an original kettle - no spout, in other words. Apr 04 05, 3:35 PM

gmackematix

Also the term kettle mere is from that source. Apr 04 05, 6:57 PM

kaylofgorons

Referring to something different? I've only heard it in the expression "that's a fine kettle of fish." Apr 04 05, 8:53 PM