MB, you couldn't be in a better place to learn to flyfish. Don't feel that you need to restrict yourself to base lakes until you think you are ready for more. One of the best parts of flyfishing is just getting out to the great places where the trout are. (Trout have the best real estate agents!)

I was at Ellsworth in the mid 90's and would spend every weekend I could camping in the Hills and flyfishing. It was right after I first picked it up. With all the streams and lakes in the Hills, you have an endless supply of places to fish within an hours drive.

Have fun!