Yeah, nicotine will make a big difference. Another thing that will help is more power.
There are plenty of VV (variable voltage) options out there that will give bigger hits (higher voltage). Many of them aren't cheap, but a couple of options come to mind if you don't want to spend much. Lavatubes sound nice... but, check the sub forum specifically about them. There are a few different ones, and some have a low amp cutoff point, which may defeat your quest for big hits.
Another, even cheaper, option is the ego twist. I'm on a tight budget, and use that right now (and really like it). It's looks like a regular ego batterry (a little longer though), and it lets you dial up your voltage for bigger hits. I use the single coil 1.7 ohm smoktech cartos in a dual coil tank on my twist, and am very happy with it. I'm able to get good throat hit from it.
Vaperite sells the twist (650mah) for $21. If you want any more info or links on the other things that I mentioned let me know.
ETA: I think the cartos will help as much as the battery. I've used the ego-t tanks before (LR too), and wasn't satisfied with the hits (and the occasional burnt taste). The 1.7 cartos give a bigger hit for me - even on a regular ego battery.