Ask HN: What IDE should I use for plotting in Python?

I'm starting to plot graphs using Python in the Spyder IDE. Spyder 3.2.0 removed the Python Console for good. I'll be plotting for stats analysis, starting with small data sets. Eventually looking to find work in this area.

I can plot in the iPython console in Spyder but I can't currently work on graphics etc, in a separate window, save all changes, come back to it later.

I'm going to invest a lot of time into this, so it'd be helpful to have advice starting out. ie I'd like to avoid getting substantially into the process and then realizing I need an entirely new tool set.

Any advice welcomed, thanks!