Wendy,
If you stick with it, you will find the casting to be not just a way of getting a fly in front of the fish, but will enjoy the casting itself.
The travelling light as both you and Ron say, is a refreshing change from carrying brollies, bait, rod rests, feeders and leads....
I think the trout season on the Ribble is finished now, but you should still be able to have a go for grayling. I would stay clear of heavy nymphs though, until you have found your feet.
I'll be down with my mate, fishing for barbel "above Preston" (OK, at Elston)for a week from Sunday 15/10.
If you fancy a wee casting lesson, or some guidance on fly fishing a river, just PM me. I'm no instructor, but I do OK.