The Maclean brothers, Paul and Norman, live a relatively idyllic life in rural Montana, spending much of their time fly fishing. The sons of a minister, the boys eventually part company when Norman moves east to attend college, leaving his rebellious brother to find trouble back home. When Norman finally returns, the siblings resume their fishing outings, and assess where they've been and where they're going.

Craig Sheffer
as Norman Maclean

Brad Pitt
as Paul Maclean

Tom Skerritt
as Rev. Maclean

Brenda Blethyn
as Mrs. Maclean

Emily Lloyd
as Jessie Burns

Edie McClurg
as Mrs. Burns

Stephen Shellen
as Neal Burns

Vann Gravage
as Young Paul

Nicole Burdette
as Mabel

Susan Traylor
as Rawhide
Wuchak
_**Two brothers growing up in Montana during the 20s**_ After WW1, two brothers come-of-age in the Missoula area of Montana; one prudent (Craig Sheffer) and the other imprudent (Brad Pitt). Tom Skerritt plays their father, a wise Presbyterian minister, while Emily Lloyd plays the sensible son’s p...