Arthur is a retired bank manager - conservative, upright, law-abiding. His decision following his wife's death to sell up and move to live near his favourite fishing river opens up a fresh and happier future which is symbolised by a climatic battle with a great trout soon after his arrival.But it is not long before Arthur's bright new world crumbles about him. When confronted by a legislative invasion of his new-found tranquility he takes a stand, and the ensuing battle not only puts to the test his own courage and beliefs but also brings into action the heavy, remorseless hand of the state.